What Is The UK’s Best Shower Enclosure?
In this article, we will list the best shower enclosures available on the market. We’ll discuss the mains points of each model and help you to decide which one is best suited for your needs. So, whether you’re looking for a full enclosure or a single glass side, we’ve got an option for everyone.
Shower Enclosure Reviews
Shower Enclosure Buyer’s Guide
Shower enclosures are the ultimate luxury when it comes to bathroom design. With a spacious interior, easy-to-use sliding doors and not a grubby shower curtain in sight, a shower enclosure could be just what you need to transform your bathroom.
Purchasing the perfect shower enclosure for your bathroom can be a little tricky. There’s a whole range of styles and sizes on the market If the decision feels a little overwhelming, you’re in need of our buyer’s guide.
Here’s all you need to know about finding the perfect shower enclosure for your bathroom.
Design
There’s a range of designs on the market, but the main options are quadrant and corner entry, both of which are available in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Quadrant shower enclosures are installed in the corner of the room and have a curved front. These maximise space as they fit snugly into most corners. Corner entry enclosures are similar, but with straight panels as opposed to curved. Walk-in shower enclosures are wonderful if you have more space.
Size
While an enormous shower to sing and dance in each morning is tempting, you’ll need to decide how much space you have to work with before you buy.
If you have the room, a large shower enclosure will feel luxurious and make a standout feature. Smaller options (760 x 760mm) are perfect for small bathrooms or ensuites.
Waterproofing
To stop your bathroom flooding every time you use it, it’s imperative that your shower enclosure is waterproof. Look for one from a quality brand with a waterproof seal that has been rigorously tested.
Door Opening
There’s a huge range of door opening mechanisms; you just need to find the best one for your bathroom.
Pivot doors open the same way a normal shower would and while these are easy to use, they protrude into the bathroom, so ensure you have enough space. Bi-fold doors are space saving and perfect for smaller bathrooms.
Sliding doors will suit virtually any shower and are primarily used for quadrant enclosures. Sliding doors provide you with ample space to step in and out of the shower, so are good if you have less mobility.
Doors that can be fitted on both the left and right-hand side are more versatile and fit a wide range of styles and sizes of bathrooms.
Glass
Shower enclosures are generally made from toughened safety glass, in 8mm, 6mm or 4mm thickness. The 8mm glass will be the most expensive but is seriously durable and tough. 6mm is reliable, sturdy and more affordable, while 4mm glass is primarily used for frameless enclosures.
Some shower enclosures come with Easy Clean glass that does exactly what it says on the tin. This coating prevents the build-up of dirt, grime, oil and limescale, as well as reducing stains.
Shower Tray
Most shower enclosures come with the option of a tray. Contemporary trays are lightweight, durable and stylish, and usually made of ceramic, resin or acrylic.
Low profile shower trays are great for easy access to the shower and look very neat. Shower trays higher above the ground will give you more room for plumbing but can feel a little less modern.
Warranty
A quality shower enclosure will come with a warranty of at least a few years. If you opt for a shower enclosure with toughened glass and quality hinges, it should last for year. However, a warranty will provide additional peace of mind.
FAQ
What size shower enclosure do I need?
The size of your shower enclosure will depend on the space you have available, as well as the layout of your bathroom.
If there’s not much space, go for a smaller quadrant enclosure or one with bi-fold doors. Those with larger bathrooms can opt for something bigger. Remember to measure the height as well as the depth and width of the space you have available.
How to seal a shower enclosure?
Sealing a shower enclosure is essential when it comes to preventing leaks in your bathroom. Sealant need only be applied to the outside of the shower.
You can do this with a caulk gun. Rest the opening of the tube against the seam of the shower, moving slowly so that all the gaps are filled. Then, once you have applied the sealant to every joint, smooth it out and allow it to sit for 24 hours before you use the shower.