Is an all glass shower enclosure possible? Literally speaking, no, because the glass needs to be held in place with metal fasteners. However, you can get as close to an “all glass” appearance as possible through savvy choices. This starts right at the beginning as you design the shower area itself and then choose the layout and configuration of the glass.

1. Avoid Design Choices that Make a Header Necessary

A glass shower header extends across the top of the enclosure, and there’s nothing wrong with using one. However, if you’re trying to minimize metal, steer clear of designs that make a header necessary for safety and stability.

• Without a header, a door cannot be hinged off a fixed panel that’s wider than 22” and is not clamped to the ceiling or a bulkhead.
• Pivot hinges need an upper surface to attach to and may thus require the inclusion of header. Side mounted hinges do not have this issue.
• Fixed panels wider than 36” and not attached to the ceiling or a bulkhead require a header.
  
  
  

2. Hinge the Door to the Bathroom Wall Instead of a Glass Panel

Glass-to-glass hinges are larger than wall mount hinges, so choosing to hinge the door to the bathroom wall allows for less total metal on your enclosure. This configuration also reduces the amount of glass fabrication required and keeps the door panel more rigid.

3. Choose a Hinged Door Rather than a Sliding Door or a Frameless Slider Rather than a Framed

Sliding shower doors include significant metal components that allow for door operation. If you want less noticeable hardware, go with a swinging door instead. However, sometimes there is not enough room around the shower entrance for a door to swing open freely. If lack of clearance necessitates a sliding door, choose a frameless slider rather than semi-frameless or framed bypass doors, which include more metal.

4. Use Clamps Rather than U-Channels to Secure Fixed Panels

In many cases, a fixed panel could be held in place by strips of U-channel or by small metal clamps. Opt for unobtrusive clamps which provide a frameless appearance and keep the focus on the glass.

5. Select a Small Door Knob or Finger Pull

Another area where you can cut back on metal is the door panel. Shower door handle options range from substantial towel bars and pull handles to knobs and finger pulls. Select a small knob or a low profile finger pull to minimize metal on this part of the enclosure.

6. Pick an Unobtrusive Hardware Finish

On some enclosures, the hardware is a key design element, and homeowners choose a finish that really stands out, such as matte black or satin brass. However, if you’re trying to reduce the visual impact of the hardware to keep attention on the glass, a more subtle finish like brushed nickel or polished chrome will better achieve this.

Need More Info?

If you need assistance choosing hardware for your glass shower enclosure project, Glass Simple’s experienced team can help. We never route calls to overseas centers, and Jamie or Robert in our Manassas Park shop will be glad to assist you – (571)707-7760.