Still dealing with an outdated shower curtain or cloudy, hard-to-clean glass doors? If your bathroom no longer feels fresh or functional, upgrading your shower door might be one of the easiest ways to make a noticeable difference.
The right shower door doesn’t just enhance the look of your bathroom—it affects light, space, comfort, and everyday usability. From space-saving sliding doors for tub/shower combinations to elegant pivot doors designed for spacious walk-in showers, each option is built for a specific layout and lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best types of shower doors, explaining how each one works, where it performs best, and the pros and cons to consider before buying. If you’re planning a bathroom upgrade or a full remodel, this list will help you choose a shower door that truly fits your space.
New Shower Door vs. New Shower Enclosure: Which Is Right for You?
Not sure whether you need a new shower door or an entirely new enclosure? In many situations, replacing just the door is more than enough.
When a new shower door is the best option:
Cracked or shattered glass
Worn or leaking seals
Door no longer fits or aligns properly
Door won’t stay closed or frequently jumps off the track
You want to update the bathroom’s style without major renovation
Replacing a shower door is usually far more cost-effective than replacing the entire enclosure. However, there are cases where a full replacement makes more sense.
When to consider a new shower enclosure:
Hinges are damaged or misaligned, even if the door still works
Both the door and surrounding glass panels are stained or etched
You’ve remodeled the bathroom and the existing shower no longer matches the new design
What’s the difference between a shower door and a shower enclosure?
A shower door is typically installed onto an existing shower opening and helps contain water while allowing light to pass through.
A shower enclosure includes glass walls that fully surround the shower along with a door, creating a more enclosed and private bathing space.
| Feature | Shower Door | Shower Enclosure |
|---|---|---|
|
Cost |
$500–$1,500 |
$2,000–$5,000+ |
|
Install Time |
1–3 hours |
1–2 days |
|
Best For |
Small baths, tub combos |
Walk-in showers, steam rooms |
|
Style Impact |
Minimal framing options |
Seamless, high-end look |
Quick Comparison
Shower enclosures work best in master bathrooms or steam showers, while shower doors are ideal for budget-friendly upgrades and simple remodels.
Different Shower Doors by Opening Style
How a shower door opens affects more than just appearance—it impacts safety, accessibility, and how efficiently your bathroom space is used. Before choosing a style, consider how much clearance you have and how the door will function in daily use.
Sliding Shower Doors – Smart Space Savers
Sliding shower doors, often called bypass doors, move horizontally along a track. One panel slides behind the other, making them a popular choice for tub/shower combinations and narrow bathrooms.
Pros:
No swing clearance required
Affordable and widely available
Cons:
Tracks collect soap scum and debris
Harder to clean compared to hinged styles
Pivoting Shower Doors – Smooth and Luxurious
Pivot shower doors rotate on hinges mounted at the top and bottom of the glass, allowing the door to swing inward, outward, or both. They’re best suited for larger walk-in showers where space isn’t an issue.
Pros:
Wide, comfortable entry
Supports thick, heavy tempered glass
Clean, high-end appearance
Cons:
Requires ample clearance
Precision installation is essential
Not ideal for steam showers
Hinged Shower Doors – Classic and Elegant
Hinged shower doors operate like traditional doors, swinging open on wall-mounted hinges. They offer full access and a timeless, refined look.
Pros:
Elegant and substantial appearance
Full opening for easy entry
Cons:
Requires at least 24 inches of clearance
Heavy glass needs strong wall support
Neo-Angle Shower Doors – Perfect for Corners
Neo-angle shower doors are designed for corner showers, using angled glass panels to form a diamond-shaped enclosure. This design maximizes interior space while saving bathroom floor area.
Pros:
Ideal for small or compact bathrooms
Modern, geometric visual appeal
Cons:
Precise measurements required
Installation is more complex
Limited hardware finish options
Curved Shower Doors – Modern and Comfortable
Curved shower doors replace straight panels with rounded glass, creating more room inside the shower and a softer, contemporary look.
Pros:
Excellent for compact bathrooms
Sleek, upscale aesthetic
Comfortable interior space
Cons:
Higher cost due to custom curved glass
Fewer off-the-shelf options
Cleaning can be slightly more challenging
Specialty Shower Doors – Custom Solutions
Specialty shower doors include bi-fold, tri-fold, steam shower doors, and walk-in designs with fixed panels. These are often custom-made for unique layouts or specific functional needs.
Pros:
Designed for tight or unconventional spaces
Excellent steam containment (steam models)
Highly customizable
Cons:
Professional installation required
Longer production lead times
Higher upfront cost
Common Styles of Shower Doors
Beyond functionality, the style of a shower door plays a major role in how your bathroom looks and feels.
Frameless Shower Doors – Clean and Contemporary
Frameless shower doors showcase uninterrupted glass, creating a bright, open, and modern bathroom environment.
Pros:
Minimalist, high-end look
Easy to clean
Customizable glass and hardware finishes
Cons:
Higher cost
Requires precise installation
Minor water splash possible
Semi-Frameless Shower Doors – Balanced Design
Semi-frameless doors feature framing around fixed panels while keeping the door itself unframed, offering both stability and visual openness.
Pros:
More stable than fully frameless doors
Easier installation
Balanced appearance
Cons:
Metal tracks still require maintenance
Less visually open than frameless designs
Framed Shower Doors – Practical and Budget-Friendly
Fully framed shower doors are often pre-sized and easier to install, making them a popular choice for cost-conscious homeowners.
Pros:
Excellent water containment
Lower cost
Widely available
Cons:
Tracks collect dirt and grime
Limited design flexibility
Bifold Shower Doors – Ideal for Tight Spaces
Bifold shower doors fold inward, making them perfect for narrow openings and compact bathrooms.
Pros:
Saves space
Affordable
Easy access
Cons:
More moving parts to maintain
Less durable than heavier glass options
7 Key Benefits of Glass Shower Doors
Glass shower doors offer much more than visual appeal—they improve safety, durability, and long-term value.
1. Custom Fit Options
When you work with Hanse to design a glass shower door, you gain access to a wide range of customization options. From glass thickness to hardware finishes, every detail can be tailored to your space.
Hanse uses tempered safety glass exclusively for shower doors, ensuring strength, durability, and peace of mind.
2. Increased Safety
Low-threshold glass shower doors reduce the need to step over a bathtub edge, minimizing slip and fall risks—especially for seniors and children.
3. Smooth Operation
High-quality hinges, rollers, and tracks ensure effortless opening and closing, making glass doors far more convenient than shower curtains.
4. Built to Last
Tempered glass shower doors resist scratches, pressure, and moisture far better than curtains or plastic panels, offering long-term reliability.
5. Elevated Aesthetic
Glass shower doors instantly make bathrooms feel brighter, cleaner, and more luxurious—whether your style is modern, industrial, or traditional.
6. Adds Home Value
Frameless and semi-frameless glass showers are widely considered premium features, helping boost resale value and buyer appeal.
7. Easy Maintenance
With regular wiping and occasional deep cleaning, glass shower doors stay clear and hygienic—without moldy liners or peeling plastic.
Cost of Shower Doors
Most glass shower doors range from $700 to $4,000, depending on glass thickness, customization, and installation requirements.
Best Budget Option: Framed glass shower doors
Luxury Choice: Frameless tempered glass doors
Average Price Ranges
| Type | Price Range (Materials Only) | Installation Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Frameless Glass |
$800 – $2,500 |
$200 – $600 |
$1,000 – $4,000 |
|
Framed Glass |
$300 – $1,200 |
$150 – $400 |
$450 – $1,600 |
|
Semi-Frameless |
$500 – $1,800 |
$200 – $500 |
$700 – $2,300 |
|
Sliding Glass |
$400 – $1,500 |
$200 – $600 |
$600 – $2,100 |
|
Acrylic/Plastic |
$200 – $800 |
$100 – $300 |
$300 – $1,100 |
Shower Glass Options Compared
After selecting a door style, choosing the right glass type helps balance light, privacy, and maintenance.
| Glass Type | Best For | Price (Per Sq. Ft.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Clear Glass |
Modern, spacious look |
$40–$80 |
|
Frosted Glass |
Privacy + soft light |
$50–$100 |
|
Textured Glass |
Decorative styles |
$70–$120 |
|
Tinted Glass |
Warmth & color |
$60–$110 |
Clear Glass – Bright and Timeless
Maximizes light and makes small bathrooms feel larger, though it requires frequent cleaning.
Frosted Glass – Privacy with Light
Provides privacy while still allowing natural light to pass through.
Textured Glass – Decorative and Functional
Offers visual interest and added privacy, though grooves may require extra cleaning.
Tinted Glass – Modern and Sophisticated
Adds warmth and style, but slightly reduces brightness.
Important Safety & Quality Tips
Always choose tempered glass and high-quality hardware to prevent leaks, corrosion, and premature wear.
Best Shower Doors for Different Bathroom Types
Small bathrooms benefit most from sliding, curved, or bifold doors, while large walk-in showers shine with frameless or pivot door designs.
How to Clean Glass Shower Doors
Daily squeegeeing and weekly vinegar-based cleaning help prevent hard water buildup and keep glass looking crystal clear.
Choosing the Right Shower Door
The right shower door can transform both the look and functionality of your bathroom. By considering space, style, and daily habits, you can select a door that feels comfortable, practical, and timeless.
If you’re ready to upgrade, Hanse offers a wide range of customizable glass shower doors designed for durability, safety, and modern living.
