Installing Frameless Glass Shower Panels

A sleek, ultra-modern bathroom.
  • 5-10 hours
  • Advanced
  • 500-1000
What You'll Need
Measuring tape
Level
Paper
Pencil
Glass door
Shims
Drill
Masonry bit
Anchors
Phillips-head bit
Vinyl sweep
What You'll Need
Measuring tape
Level
Paper
Pencil
Glass door
Shims
Drill
Masonry bit
Anchors
Phillips-head bit
Vinyl sweep

Glass shower panels can make your bathroom seem bigger and more stylish. The shower enclosure will also give your room a contemporary look and make it easier to clean.

WARNING: Precaution is imperative in this job since the glass is quite heavy and easily breakable. Ideally, you’ll have two things: a partner to help you and gloves in case the glass breaks while you’re working with it.

Step 1 - Measure

Measure the opening of the shower to make sure the glass will fit. Take into account the use of “U” channels and seals. Normally, an allowance of ½ inch will suffice. With a level, check the wall. If it’s not level, drop the glass in place and fill in the empty space in the “U” channel with sealer.

Step 2 - Decide Which Way the Panel Will Open

glass shower

Frameless panels can normally open in any direction. The one you choose for your shower door will be based on the layout of your bathroom. You can’t have it open out if there’s no room for it to do so.

Step 3 - Install the Hinges

Get your assistant to help you position the glass on shims, raising it to the correct height. Mark the setting of the hinges on the tiles with chalk or pencil. Place the glass panels aside, resting them on newspaper or cloth. This practice is designed to keep them from slipping.

Drill the tiles where you marked and insert masonry anchors for each hole made. Slice off any part of the anchor that protrudes. Insert the screws and tighten them. Place the glass in line with the hinges and make sure they align perfectly with the wall. If not, either fill in the space with sealer, or insert a packing to level the hinges. Make sure the glass doesn’t hit the baseplate.

Hint: If you can’t align the glass, using a header across the top might be the answer.

Step 4 - Install the Door Handle

large modern bathroom

Door handles are attached in one of two ways. The first is with a pre-drilled hole and a screw fastened through the glass into the handle. The other type involves adhesives. This is easier; just peel off the protective tape and attach it to the door.

Step 5 - Install the Doors

At the bottom of the glass door, attach a vinyl sweep. Again, ask for assistance, place the glass doors in line with the hinges, and screw through the latter. Once it’s installed, clean the glass thoroughly with a glass cleaner to provide a protective barrier. Finally, grab your bathrobe and enjoy the first shower in your newly installed, frameless glass shower.