How Much Do Glass Shower Doors Cost?

by Nora Saleh June 20, 2019

When it comes to shopping around for glass shower doors and glass shower enclosures, there are quite a few variables to consider before deciding on the perfect one for you (and your budget). First, the size and layout of your bathroom will determine what shower doors will fit the space. For example, swinging shower doors generally require more space than sliding doors. Next, you must take into account the size of your shower door. Not only will larger doors take up more space, but they will cost more to install. Other factors to consider are the cost of labor, the thickness of glass and custom modifications.

The Costs

When you consider all the variables, here are the average prices for shower door installation in Austin, TX:

Average Cost of Shower Doors: $1200 - $1800
Typical Range: $1000 - $2000
Low End: $500 - $1000
High End: $2500 - $4000

A Complete Guide to Glass Showers

If you have seen any of those “Home Makeover” shows, you know that the shower is the focal point of most bathrooms. Showers come in many shapes and sizes, use a wide variety of materials and utilize distinctive methods of functionality. Ultimately it comes down to personal taste.

Glass Shower Enclosures

Frameless Shower

Frameless glass shower enclosures eliminate the need for a metal support structure by utilizing heavier glass. Typically, these types of showers are made with 3/8” to ½” panes of strong tempered glass that are dense enough to support themselves and because there is no need for a frame, frameless glass showers convey a seamless elegance to any bathroom. Additionally, many homeowners prefer these showers because they are much easier to clean, and will match the decor.

Related: Remodeling Your Bathroom 101

Framed Shower Enclosures

Framed shower enclosures rely on a metal skeleton to support the surrounding glass, typically utilizing thinner glass measuring 1/8” to 3/16” thickness. These types of showers are generally the most cost effective option because they do not require heavy glass and are easier to install.

Semi Frameless Shower

Semi Frameless Showers are for you are the perfect combination of the frameless and framed shower enclosures, offering the best of both worlds. By installing a solid glass door, and low-profile framing, you can achieve the open feel of a frameless shower.

Walk in Shower

A new, trendy option in the world of shower enclosures is the walk in glass shower enclosure. These popular bathroom additions come in a variety of styles. They are typically frameless, and some designs even forego the shower door altogether. This look consists of one or more glass panes forming a barrier opposite the wall with shower head and fixtures. Their minimalistic structure makes bathrooms with a walk in shower appear cleaner and more natural.

Walk-in showers also offer curbless entry options, which is beneficial for individuals with limited mobility. By removing these thresholds, those with mobility issues can safely and easily access the shower area.

Neo Angle Shower Enclosure

Typically utilized as a corner shower, these space-savers can be designed for a wide range of bathrooms. By enclosing two walls with three sides of thick tempered glass (one of which is the shower door), a natural angle is formed. Neo angle shower enclosures can be framed or frameless, and are most common in smaller bathrooms because the shower door opens into the middle of the room, offering more space..

Steam Sauna

Having visions of a spa-like retreat in your bathroom? Maybe adding a steam sauna to your walk in shower is the answer! Keep in mind that your glass shower doors will need to extend up to the ceiling to help keep most of the steamy goodness inside. Try adding frosted glass partitions to further enhance your private spa experience.

Glass Shower Doors

Swinging Doors

This type of glass shower door generally doesn’t have a frame and is positioned to swing open just like any other door in your home. Swinging doors are made of thicker ½” glass, they are much sturdier and will not wobble like cheaper, thinner glass doors.

One drawback of installing a swinging glass shower door in your bathroom is that it requires ample space for clearance. If your shower is a neo-angle or corner shower door, the swinging door might be your only option. Make sure to keep this in mind when planning your bathroom remodel.

Sliding Glass Doors

These shower doors (also known as bypass doors) are as functional as they are visually appealing. Sliding glass shower doors don’t swing into the bathroom, so clearance space is not an issue. Sliding glass doors can also be utilized in frameless and framed showers alike, making them one of the most versatile shower door options.

Clear Glass or Frosted Glass?

Clear Glass

Clear glass shower enclosures let in more light then opaque glass and make your space appear larger and more open. This simple investment helps create a more open, seamless and contemporary space, that offers a unique design opportunity. Since most contemporary style bathrooms are usually visual and feature intricate bathroom fixtures and decorative tiles, frame less shower glass doors have been gaining fame among many homeowners.

Frosted Glass

Commonly referred to as opaque or privacy glass, this glass type does exactly what its name suggests. Acid etching or sand blasting, regular clear glass is what gives frosted glass its opaque appearance. It blurs visibility when gazing through the glass by obscuring the light coming in. As a result, your bathroom won’t let in as much natural light compared to clear glass. Also, worth considering is that because you can’t see through privacy glass, your bathroom will also appear smaller.

If privacy is an issue in your home then frosted glass is the glass for you! Its unique look and texture can be a bit tricky to incorporate into your design scheme, but with the right bathroom design frosted glass can be a beautiful accent to the room.

For more on types of glass, read our Ultimate Guide: Frosted Glass vs. Clear Glass

Things to Consider When Choosing a Shower

Determine how much space you have to work with. The shape and style of your shower will depend on available space.
If someone in your home has mobility issues, a walk in shower offers accessibility.
If you are planning a corner shower, neo-angle shower enclosures are a trendy alternative that save space and look great!
Sliding glass doors need less space than swinging glass doors

Increased Home Value

Bathroom updates are known for having the highest return on investment when considering a home’s resale value. According to a study from improvenet.com, bathroom remodeling projects can yield a 60% return on investment. A few extra additions to your shower that increase ROI are added shower seating and high-end bathroom fixtures.

For more information on ordering glass shower doors and enclosures, call us today at 512-339-4888.