Choosing the Right Shower Door Opening: A Guide to Styles and Functionality

When re-modelling a bathroom or designing a new one, choosing the right shower door isn't just about aesthetics—it's also about functionality, space, and personal preference. One of the key decisions you’ll face is selecting the type of shower door opening that works best for your bathroom layout. Whether you’re dealing with a compact ensuite or a spacious master bath, there’s a shower door option that suits your needs.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of shower door openings and what makes each one unique:

1. Pivot (Hinged) Shower Doors

How it works: Pivot doors swing open on hinges like a regular household door.

Best for: Medium to large bathrooms with enough clearance space.

Pros:

• Offers a clean, modern look.

• Easy access with a wide opening.

Cons:

• Requires clear floor space in front of the shower. (for example, if a shower door is 900mm wide, it will need a minimum of a 900mm gap outside of the shower for the door to open fully) 

• Water may drip onto the bathroom floor when opening. 

• Can be heavy to open if using 10mm glass.

2. Sliding Shower Doors

How it works: Typically one fixed panel and one sliding door.

Best for: Smaller bathrooms

Pros:

• Doesn’t require extra clearance space.

• Great for maximising limited room.

• Sleek and contemporary design options.

Cons:

• Tracks can collect grime and require maintenance.

• Narrower entry compared to hinged options.

3. Bi-Fold (Folding) Shower Doors

How it works: Panels are hinged together and fold inward or outward in a concertina effect .

Best for: Bathrooms with limited space or awkward layouts.

Pros:

• Compact design perfect for tight spaces.

• Easier to access than sliders in small areas.

Cons:

• More mechanical parts mean potential maintenance.

• May not feel as sturdy as a solid glass door.

4. Infold Shower Doors

How it works: These doors open like a pivot door, but with clever mechanisms the door slides into the shower tray.

Best for: Modern bathrooms seeking a unique touch.

Pros:

• Offers wide openings without needing large floor space.

• Flexible opening direction.

• Stylish and practical.

Cons:

• Needs space inside and outside the shower.

• Usually higher initial costs.

5. Corner Opening Shower Doors

How it works: Typically installed in corner showers, these doors open from the corner allowing easy access.

Best for: Corner installations and small bathrooms.

Pros:

• Space-saving design.

• A sleek and efficient layout for tight areas.

Cons:

• Limited to specific shower shapes.

• Reliant on the joining seals on the doors to create the water tight seal to stop water escaping.

6. Fixed Glass

How it works: A single piece of glass typically used in either a wet room or a walk in shower tray. These can come in either a clear glass form, or a fluted version for that bit more privacy.  These come in lots of sizes and can also be made bespoke to suit the space you have

Best for: Luxury or spa-style bathrooms.

Pros:

• No maintenance as no moving parts.

• Modern high-end finish.

• Enhances the spa experience.

Cons:

• Requires professional installation due to size and weight of glass.

• If poorly designed water can escape from the shower area potentially causing damage.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right shower door opening depends on your bathroom’s size, layout, and style preferences. Think about:

• How much room you have for the door to open.

• Whether you prefer a frameless or framed look.

• Maintenance and cleaning requirements.

  
  

By understanding the pros and cons of each type, you’ll be better equipped to find a shower door that enhances both the function and aesthetic of your space.

If you would like to know more about different shower doors and how they will suit your needs feel free to contact Aardvark Bathrooms in Hemel Hempstead.