Have you ever dreamed of a spa-like bathroom retreat? I certainly have. With some DIY experience, I once thought I was a bathroom guru.
However, my recent bathroom renovation turned into a comedy of errors, filled with shower enclosure mishaps. Through trial and error, I learned valuable lessons.
Join me as I share my experience so you can avoid common pitfalls and create shower enclosures and shower doors that are both beautiful and functional.
Mistake 1: Inaccurate Measurements
Inaccurate or improper measurement may lead to various issues like noticeable gaps, misalignment, and even leaks. Ending up fitting a shower enclosure that is not a perfect fit for the space may require expensive adjustments or replacements, adding to unnecessary costs and delays to your project. Therefore you should start by taking the measurement of the space where you plan to fit the shower enclosure.
Solution: It is always a good idea to measure the area multiple times to avoid measurement errors. Ensure you measure the space from different angles to reduce the risk of overlooking inconsistencies in the space. Don’t forget to account for the thickness of tiles and grout on floors and walls if that includes your bathroom renovation plan. We recommend using reliable tools like measuring tapes, laser measurer, or sprint level for precision and consistency.
Mistake 2: Pivot Shower Door Banging
The pivot shower doors have a common problem. They open outward and bang into a vanity unit or toilet, creating an unpleasant sound. Not only can it collide with nearby bathroom fittings and fixtures, but it can also make your bathroom appear even smaller. If you encounter this issue, it likely indicates that your bathroom is small and the shower door is a poor choice for your bathroom.
Solution. You have two options available to solve this problem.
First, you could consider replacing your pivot door with a sliding door. Because such doors don’t open outwards, there will be no more doors banging into the bathroom toilet or vanity unit.
Second, you could solve this problem by reducing the size of the pivot shower door. You could replace it with a simple glass shower screen that will result in reduced projection inside the bathroom.
Mistake 3: Spending Too Much on a Customised Shower Enclosure
Another mistake to avoid is falling for a customisable shower enclosure solution. While there are situations where a custom solution is necessary, it’s rare that you won’t find a pre-made option that fits your bathroom. Sometimes, homeowners try to create a unique shape, thinking it will be a better fit, but end up paying significantly more. Remember that there are many additional costs involved, from installation to minor details, that can quickly add up.
Solution: Always consult with multiple installers about your shower enclosure needs. There are many standard shapes available, such as square, rectangular, quadrant, offset quadrant, and alcove. You can easily find a size that suits your bathroom. Therefore, spending extra money on a custom solution often doesn’t make sense.
Mistake 4: The Shower Enclosure Entrance is Too Big or Too Small
When you get a shower enclosure, you’ll also need to choose a shower door to create an entrance to the main shower area. It’s important to ensure that the shower enclosure entrance isn’t too small, especially for individuals with larger body sizes. This is particularly a problem with small enclosures that have correspondingly small doors.
Additionally, the issue of an improperly sized entrance can also arise with walk-in shower enclosures. What’s the point of an enclosed shower area if the entrance is too large, compromising the intended privacy and functionality?
Solution: When ordering a shower enclosure and shower door, consider the needs of larger individuals in your family. A walk-in shower might be a better option for those with larger body sizes.
Mistake 5: Clear Glass Comes with a Problem
Clear glass can enhance the aesthetics of your bathroom by making the tiles inside the shower area visible. However, it’s important to remember that a shower enclosure is meant to provide privacy. You may not want to be visible while showering, especially if others, like your kids or partner, are using the bathroom.
Solution: Carefully consider the type of glass for your shower enclosure before ordering. Various options are available, from clear to frosted, and with different design patterns. If privacy is a concern, choose a glass that offers the desired level of opacity.
Mistake 6: Neglecting Waterproofing
Waterproofing your shower enclosure is crucial for preventing serious problems like water seeping into walls, floors, and other structural elements. Overtime, it may lead to mold growth, rotting ,and damages requiring costly repair. Therefore, adequate protection against water damage should be part of your plan when installing a shower enclosure.
Solution: Ensure sealing the shower enclosure by using high quality silicone sealant. You should apply it to all joints and seams while paying special attention to areas where the enclosure meets walls and floors. It will properly seal the vulnerable points and maintain the integrity of the waterproofing barrier. Once the shower enclosure and shower door installation and sealing process is complete, it’s essential to test the enclosure for potential leaks. We recommend running water along the seem and edges and carefully inspect for any signs of water on a regular basis.
Ending Thoughts
Looking back, I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned from my shower enclosure journey. Simply follow the expert advice to avoid similar pitfalls and you can achieve your dream bathroom. While process may not be easy and smooth, but the end result will make you truly proud of. So, take your time, do your research and make your next renovation a success.