How to Decide What Type of Shower Enclosure You Need
It can be a difficult task to decide what kind of shower enclosure is best for your bathroom. There are so many different types and styles of shower on the market today that choosing between them is tough. The first thing you need to think about is how you use the shower, including the number of people using it, when they use it, and the features you need. You also need to consider the space available for the shower within the bathroom. Here is a quick guide to the different types of shower enclosure and shower doors available, so you can narrow down your options and end up with the best shower for your needs.
Hinged Shower Doors
When you think about the typical shower you will probably picture one with hinged shower doors . These doors allow the shower enclosure to fully open out, with the hinges down one'side and the door usually swinging outwards. The hinges allow the door to open fully, which makes this type of enclosure ideal when you want complete and easy access to the shower.
Pivot Shower Doors
Like hinged shower doors, pivot shower doors open outwards on fixed hinges, although the pivots are at the top and the bottom of the enclosure and securely fixed. With pivot hinged shower door enclosures you have similar access as with a hinged shower door but slightly less of an opening. These shower doors are ideal for larger bathrooms or where'space for a door opening is not an issue.
Sliding Shower Doors
Choose a sliding shower door when you do not have the space for a shower door to swing outwards on hinges into the bathroom. The sliding door shower enclosure is made up of panels that overlap and that'slide in on themselves to close the cubicle. This is an attractive option for a small room and large rooms also benefit from sliding doors as they look neater and are more attractive packed away.
Bi Fold Shower Doors
Bi fold shower door enclosures are great when you want a shower door that doesn't open out into the room. The bi fold shower doors fold in upon themselves when you access the shower, making the shower unit compact and neat even when the doors are open. You also do not need to worry about water from the door frame dripping out over the floor. You can use these doors on their own or have them as the central panel of the enclosure with plain glass panels either side to make the unit look more stylish.
In-Swing Shower Enclosures
Another good option for a small room; this type of shower door swings in on itself in order to maximise the space available in the bathroom and also to allow for easy entry into the shower.