How to Remove Glass Shower Doors

Shower doors are liked much more than shower curtains. There's no need to call a professional to remove or install shower doors as you can remove them yourself. There are two type of shower doors you may encounter: sliding and swinging. This article will cover how to remove both styles.

Step 1 - Removing the Sliding Door

Taking a sliding shower door out of the frame is the easiest of the two door styles as there is nothing to actually remove. The bottom track is made from aluminum and will have one edge shorter than the other. The top track and top of the door is where you will find the roller wheels. First, get inside the shower stall. Most shower doors slide on the inside of the stall which is where you have to be to remove them. Put on your gloves to help you grip and maintain control of the door. Next, grab each end of the door and firmly lift straight up. The door will lift off the track. Now, tilt the top of the shower door toward you and, at the same time, bend your knees. This allows you to control the door while removing the top from the track.

Step 2 - Removing the Swinging Door

A shower that uses a normal swinging door style uses hinges to allow you to open and close the door. These showers tend to be smaller in size. When the doors are closed you will have a fairly tight seal. In order to remove this door you have to open it and then step inside the stall. Locate the hinges and use the screwdriver to remove them from the metal frame. Carefully hold the door while you do this to prevent it from falling. It is a good idea to remove the bottom hinge first. Once the hinges are removed the door is no longer attached and can be removed.

Step 3 - Removing the Stationary Glass

Many shower door structures have two pieces: the door and a stationary shade. Look on the metal frame along the wall where the stationary piece is positioned. First, remove any caulking that is on the wall. This can cover the screws you need to remove. Now, use the screwdriver and undo the screws in the frame until the stationary glass piece is loose. Simply remove the piece by either sliding or lifting it from its place.

Step 4 - Remove the Aluminum Frame

If the goal is to replace the glass then you need to remove the aluminum frame around the glass. Use your utility knife and force it between the glass and the metal. Slide the blade over. This will cut the frame free from the adhesive that was used. Do this on both sides. Now, use the rubber mallet to gently hit the metal at the ends to dislodge it from the glass. You can now use your own power to pull up on the metal to free it from the glass.