What Are Common Mistakes When Choosing Glass Shower Doors

To help you make the best decision, here are common mistakes to avoid.

1. Ignoring Bathroom Layout and Space Constraints

One of the biggest mistakes is not considering your bathroom’s size and layout when selecting a glass shower door. Common Issues:

• Choosing a swinging door for a small space, leading to clearance problems
• Installing a door that interferes with nearby fixtures like sinks or toilets
• Overlooking the door’s swing direction, causing it to bump into walls

Solution: Measure your space carefully. For smaller bathrooms, sliding or bi-fold doors work best​.

2. Overlooking Glass Thickness and Quality

Not all glass is the same, and selecting the wrong type can impact safety and durability. Mistakes to Avoid:

• Choosing thin glass that may not withstand daily use
• Skipping tempered glass, which is the industry safety standard

Tip: Always opt for high-quality tempered glass—it’s stronger, safer, and required for shower doors​. For frameless designs, thicker glass is recommended for added stability​.

3. Neglecting Customization Options

Standard-sized shower doors might not fit perfectly, especially in bathrooms with unique layouts. Common Problems:

• Gaps or misalignment causing leaks
• Difficult installation due to irregular dimensions

Solution: Custom glass shower doors ensure a precise fit and a polished, high-end look​.

4. Choosing the Wrong Style for Your Needs

While aesthetics are important, functionality should come first. Examples of Missteps:

• Selecting clear glass when privacy is a priority
• Opting for a frameless design without considering maintenance needs
• Choosing frosted glass that doesn’t match your bathroom’s theme

Tip: Match your shower door style to your bathroom’s design and your personal preferences​.

5. Underestimating Maintenance Requirements

Some glass finishes and styles require more upkeep than others. Mistakes to Avoid:

• Choosing clear glass without considering hard water stains and soap scum buildup
• Overlooking protective coatings that make cleaning easier

Solution: Consider frosted or textured glass to hide streaks or select glass with protective coatings that repel water​.

6. Forgetting Proper Installation

Even the highest-quality shower door won’t function well if installed incorrectly. Potential Issues:

• Leaks due to improper sealing
• Misaligned doors that don’t open or close properly
• Reduced durability from incorrect mounting

Tip: Hire a professional for installation to ensure precise measurements and a secure fit​.

7. Overlooking Hardware and Finishing Details

The hardware and finishes of your shower door impact both function and aesthetics. Common Oversights:

• Mismatched hardware that clashes with other bathroom fixtures
• Low-quality hinges and handles that wear out quickly

Solution: Choose durable materials like stainless steel or brass and ensure the finish complements your bathroom style​.

8. Ignoring Budget and Long-Term Value

Budgeting for a shower door isn’t just about the upfront cost—it’s about long-term value. Mistakes:

• Opting for the cheapest option without considering durability
• Underestimating the investment potential of a high-quality custom shower door

Advice: Balance your budget with quality and style. A well-chosen glass shower door adds long-term value to your home​.

Get Expert Help with Alluring Glass

Avoid these common mistakes by working with Alluring Glass, Cincinnati’s trusted expert in custom glass shower doors. Call 513-216-1987 or visit our Google Maps listing to schedule your consultation today!