10 Classy Shower Doors Options for Your Bathroom

One of the most important considerations when installing a new shower or updating an existing one is the shower door option.

The exact dimensions of your shower space, how much space you have between the shower and other fixtures, how much time you want to invest in daily shower cleanup, and whether those frameless shower doors you saw on a design blog are really the best fit for your lifestyle and your wallet are all important considerations.

There are several shower door styles to choose from and various glass finishes. Learn about the multiple options to help you decide which one is best for your space.

1. Frameless doors 

A “frameless” shower enclosure is made of strong tempered glass that does not require metal support around the outside edges. As a result, the design is sleek and modern, with no visual distractions. Indeed, one of the reasons frameless options are so popular is that they help to highlight beautiful stonework, intricate tile designs, and gleaming hardware. Frameless shower doors are the easiest to clean because they do not have seals that collect water buildup over time. One thing to keep in mind is that most frameless doors contain some metal.

A frameless shower is typical twice the price of a basic, metal-enclosed model. Furthermore, frameless shower doors can leak if not installed properly, so work with a reputable contractor and make sure your shower pan slopes toward the drain.

2. Semi-frameless shower doors 

If you want the modern look of a frameless enclosure but your layout and budget don’t allow for it, a semi-frameless model can be a good compromise. Look for high-quality components, such as permanently bonded hinges, solid handles, and patented glass coating.

A semi-frameless pivot door with 3/8-inch thick tempered glass and a taller-than-average 76-inch height contributes to the sleek, streamlined appearance. Prices range between $959 and $2,100.

3. Framed shower doors 

Framed shower doors can be just as attractive as their frameless counterparts because they are less expensive. Basco’s Thinline 136 series includes the traditional pivot shower door. While the door is frameless, the oil-rubbed bronze finish that surrounds it makes a bold statement that works equally well in a traditional or modern bathroom. Prices range between $650 and $1,500.

4. Glass tub enclosures 

If you can’t bear the thought of giving up your bathtub but want a more modern look than a shower curtain, a glass tub enclosure may be the answer. This bathtub shower door option can be installed over an existing tub for a modern, easy-to-clean upgrade.

5. Sliding doors 

The way your shower door opens is determined by your personal style and the layout of your bathroom. Sliding (also known as bypass) doors are a good option for tub enclosures and small bathrooms with close-spaced fixtures.

The frameless sliding doors in this image highlight the beauty of the shower without taking up too much space. Sliding doors can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 or more.

6. Pivoting door 

A pivot shower door, also known as a swinging or hinge door, operates similarly to a standard door. In a traditional or cottage-style bath, such as this primary suite, these doors can make a sophisticated statement. Pivoting shower doors are popular in small bathrooms because they take up less space than sliding doors. In small spaces, swing-in options are ideal.

7. Bi-fold shower doors 

Folding or bi-fold shower doors are an excellent choice for small showers. When there isn’t enough room for a pivot door, these doors provide a wider walk-in opening. DreamLine’s Butterfly door has a frameless design that provides a clean, custom glass look and can be installed over a shower stall or a tub.

8. Partial tub enclosure 

A partial glass enclosure over a shower stall or tub is an affordable and modern European-style option.

9. Clear glass finishes 

Clear glass shower doors can be like gleaming works of modern art when done right. However, they will require daily squeegeeing to keep their pristine appearance.

10. Textured glass finishes 

Frosted or textured glass adds privacy and a splash of color to your shower, and these doors are easier to clean than clear glass doors. Textured glass is commonly seen on sliding shower doors, but it is also available in many frameless and pivoting configurations.