An in-line door and panel enclosure is appealing for its simplicity and versatility. You can often use this type of glass enclosure to replace a curtain or old set of framed doors on your tub or shower. However, if you’re working with a different layout, one or two 90-degree return panels can be added for a shower stall with more walls made of glass. We’ll go over each piece of hardware needed for a standard in-line door and panel installation and provide some helpful details on each.

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Wall Mount Hinges for an In-line Enclosure

Hinges are one of the most important types of glass shower hardware, and you’ll want to start by determining whether you need wall mount or glass-to-glass hinges. When possible, it is ideal to hinge your door panel off the wall rather than the fixed panel. (See why in our posting 3 Reasons to Hinge Your Glass Shower Door to the Wall Instead of Glass.) To do this, you will need two wall mount hinges, such as Glass Simple’s GEN0F.

Be sure to note the technical specifications of any hinge you are considering to ensure they are suited to the width and weight of the door panel. For example, the GEN0F specifications state, “If using 2 hinges, maximum door weight is 80 lbs and maximum door width is 28” (711 mm). If using 3 hinges, maximum door weight is 120 lbs, and maximum door width is 32” (813 mm).”

Heavy duty hinges are available for wider, heavier doors, or in some cases a hinge can support a larger piece of glass if three hinges are used instead of two. If your design requires you to mount the door panel to the fixed panel instead, you’ll want to choose two (or possibly three) 180 degree glass to glass hinges.

Clamps for the Fixed Panel

The next type of shower door hardware we’ll consider are clamps. Fixed panels are held in place by clamps or U-channel. If you’re going with clamps, you’ll typically need three wall mount clamps like Glass Simple’s SCU2X2. Two will attach the side of the panel to the wall, and one will attach the base of the panel to the curb. Alternatively, you can install U-channel to hold the base and side of the fixed panel in place. However, if a frameless look is desired, clamps are more appealing.

Handle for the Swinging Door

The door handle is an area of shower hardware shopping where you have a number of options from which to choose. These include knobs, pulls, and towel bars that also serve as handles. What we see purchased most often at Glass Simple are back-to-back tubular pulls like 8X8TH or ladder pulls such as 8X8LH. These offer looks that match multiple décor themes and offer an ergonomic and easy to grip door handle. On the other hand, if you want to minimize metal, a small knob can be appealing, while a towel bar helps optimize storage in a small space.

Shower Door Hardware Finishes

We’ve discussed some practical aspects of hardware supplies for an in-line door and panel enclosure, but the metal components also have a decorative role. Glass Simple hardware is typically available in these finishes:

• Chrome
• Brushed nickel
• Polished nickel
• Satin brass
• Brushed bronze
• Matte black

Our team has noted the consistent popularity of brushed nickel and matte black as well as a rising demand for satin brass and brushed bronze.

In-line Shower Door Hardware Supplies FAQs

Q: If I am a homeowner DIYing an in-line door and panel enclosure, can I source professional grade hardware?

A: Yes. Some large hardware companies only sell to business account holders. Glass Simple, on the other hand, supplies the same hardware to business and DIY customers. There are no account creation requirements or order minimums to shop with Glass Simple.

Q: Are there stylistic differences between various hinges and clamps?

A: The main difference is that some have a square profile – like VIS0F – while others – such as PLA5O – feature beveled edges. You’ll want to keep in mind that square hardware creates a more modern vibe and beveled a more traditional look.

Q: What pitfalls do I need to avoid when purchasing shower door hardware supplies for my in-line enclosure?

A: To avoid ordering the wrong products, it’s important to check listing details. Points to check include:

• Is this item compatible with the type, dimensions, and thickness of glass I am using?
• Is the finish and level of sheen a match for my other hardware? (For example you don’t want a mix of polished nickel and brushed nickel hardware on the same shower.)
• Is this the right piece for the application – ie a wall mount or glass-to-glass hinge?
• Will the aesthetic details of this item – like square or beveled edges – match the other shower hardware I am ordering?
  
  

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Pro Help Is Available

Do you have questions about what hardware to order for your in-line door and panel or other type of glass shower enclosure? Give the Glass Simple team a call at (571)707-7760 or – if you’re local – stop by our shop at 8395 Euclid Ave. Ste. A, Manassas Park, VA 20111.