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Why Are Frameless Glass Showers More Popular Than Framed?

Why Are Frameless Glass Showers More Popular Than Framed?

3rd Apr 2025

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Frameless glass shower enclosures have been the top dog in the design world for a while. Framed and semi-frameless construction is generally less expensive, so why the preference for frameless glass? And is this preference universal? We’ll explore various facets of these questions to help you determine the ideal design for your remodeled bathroom or new build.

 


 

Aesthetic Appeal of Frameless Glass

 

Instead of bulky framework, frameless glass is held in place with hinges and small clamps. Many home decorators and designers find frame-free glass more attractive than panels surrounded by aluminum frames. Why?

 

  • Frameless glass gives the enclosure an upscale “barely there” vibe.
  • Removing the framing improves visual continuity between the shower and the rest of the bathroom, which makes both areas seem bigger.
  • Frameless design offers a mostly unimpeded view of your chosen shower tile.
  • Switching from a shower curtain or old framed shower door to a frameless enclosure effectively updates a bathroom.

 

Practical Appeal of Frameless Glass

 

Besides looking amazing, frameless glass offers some practical perks. The simple design and minimal metal means fewer nooks and crannies where soap scum and water deposits can build up. Wiping down the smooth, uncomplicated surface is easier than washing an enclosure with more metal pieces. Also, frameless design is most frequently paired with clear glass. This smooth exterior can be more easily wiped clean than the dimensional surface of patterned glass or the etched surface of frosted glass. On the other hand, frameless rolling shower door systems use different hardware which is more complicated to clean but provides a door with excellent space efficiency.

 

Versatility of Frameless Shower Design

 

Since frameless showers are built of classic materials with glass at the front and center, they adorn bathrooms of many colors and styles. From the commonly used clear glass to the timeless hardware finishes, frameless showers can be adapted to bathrooms of many themes. Even if you change the room’s color scheme or the dominant patterns and textures, the frameless glass shower will continue to shine.

 

Competition from Glass with Grids

 

As frameless glass showers remain in-vogue, there is one type of framed shower that is also trending. Clear glass framed by black U-channel with black grids on its surface evokes old-fashioned steel framed windows and is a popular design element. This glass with grids is used on shower enclosures, screens, and even room dividers. The grids require more precise cleaning but the look is both timeless and fashionable, harmonizing with styles ranging from Japandi to cottage.

 

Frameless Glass Shower Hardware from Glass Simple

At Glass Simple, we prioritize simplifying the process of sourcing quality frameless glass shower hardware. The items on our site are in-stock and ready for shipping or preparation for local pickup. Our team is based in Manassas Park, VA, and calls are never routed to a remote center. Our commitment to excellent customer care and timely turnaround facilitate a pleasant shopping experience. We serve homeowners as well as business clients, with reduced prices available to B2B account holders. Give us a call at (571)707-7760.