While shower doors and enclosures are made primarily of glass, the metal components are also crucial. In this handy guide, we’ll provide tips for every stage of the process – choosing and purchasing the hardware, installing it, and keeping it clean and looking its best.

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Guidance for Purchasing Your Glass Shower Hardware

 

For starters, you’ll want to evaluate which pieces of hardware will be needed for your particular glass shower enclosure design. Below are key items required for popular glass shower configurations:

• A sliding shower door kit that typically includes header bar, rollers, door stopper, brackets, finger pull, bottom guide, sweep, jamb
• Clamps, hinges, and pull handles for an in-line door and panel enclosure
• Hinges and pull handles or knobs for French doors
• Clamps or hinges for a splash panel

 

Once you’ve established which pieces you need, here are some tips for avoiding common mistakes when ordering.

• Be sure to check the door width and weight for which a given hinge is rated.
• Note towel bar lengths to ensure they will fit on the desired panel.
• Match hinge and clamp edges – beveled or squared – across the enclosure.
• Keep in mind that the same finish may look different from different manufacturers.
• Pay attention to details of finish names. Satin brass looks noticeably different from polished brass, for example.
• Consider any practical needs or preferences when picking out items. For instance, should you buy an ergonomic pull handle rather than a small knob that could be harder to grip?
  
  

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Pro Tips for Successful Hardware Installation

 

When it comes time to install the glass and hardware, avoid using power tools when putting the metal components in place because using power tools can damage the hardware. Additional tips include:

• Never drill holes or drive screws into glass tiles as this may cause them to crack.
• Carefully check that you are using hinges rated for the width and weight of your door panel.
• If you notice a hinge squeaking after install, you can apply several drops of multi-purpose oil around the nylon washer.
• Should you need to take a hinge apart, use a small amount of white lithium grease to lubricate the components.
  
  

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Best Practices for Cleaning and Caring for Shower Hardware

 

Drying a shower’s hardware after use is one of the best ways to keep it looking awesome. Tap water often includes corrosive elements and minerals that tend to leave buildup. By removing the water quickly, you don’t give it time to mar the metal finish. Keep some absorbent towels handy – perhaps on a glass-mounted towel bar – to make this practice easy to carry out. Next, form a regular schedule for cleaning the shower stall, including the hardware. Make a mild blend of gentle liquid soap and water for your cleaning agent and use this and a soft cloth to wash each piece of metal. Finish up by rinsing and drying the hardware.

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Glass Simple is your handy source for glass shower hardware and more. We offer items in a variety of brands, styles, and finishes, and we hope you’ll check out our site! Also, feel free to give us a call with any questions or to set-up a business account – (571)707-7760.