Framed vs. Frameless Showers

When you close your eyes and imagine your dream master bathroom, that first image might be crystal clear, or it could be just a few features or must-have items you hope to include. Either way, the feels that accompany your mental images of this space are serene, luxurious, and tranquil. Life can be hectic and fast-paced. So, when you have a few minutes to yourself, nothing is as appreciated as a spa-like experience. According to the Washington Post, in a recent survey of over 1,100 people, more than 30% said they discovered their greatest insights and ideas while in a relaxing shower. That was more than in any other single location or activity. When you are ready to create your shower oasis, the Butcher & Butcher Construction team is ready to help you transform your mental images into your reality, and one of the first steps is deciding on a framed or frameless shower.

The Visual Differences Between Framed and Frameless Showers

Framed showers are exactly what you might envision from the name. All the glass panels, including the door, are framed, typically with a strip of metal. While you might initially think of this frame as a slight upgrade that adds to the style or décor, it also adds to the level of effort required to keep the shower looking its best. In a wet environment, the metal frame can appear spotted very quickly due to mineral deposits. In addition, the frame creates a barrier around the glass, making it more difficult to clean.

A frameless shower has no metal frame around the wall panels or the glass door. The appearance is uniform throughout the space, regardless of the number of glass panels used in construction. Many people prefer the appearance of the frameless shower because it provides an uninterrupted view into or out of the shower. And there is never an issue trying to clean away water spots on the metal frame or clean the entire glass panel.

Are There Structural Differences in A Framed and Frameless Shower?

Typically, the only metal used in a frameless shower is along the top of the wall panels and across the door opening. The small strip is out of most people’s line of sight but provides the needed stability to allow for only small clips to stabilize the panels of glass used in the shower walls. Those panels are thicker than the ones used in a framed shower and are made of tempered glass for added safety to avoid hazardous chips at the panel edges. You can install tempered glass in a framed shower, but it is not required.

A few functional differences exist between a frameless shower and a framed one. If you want a sliding shower door, you will need to opt for a framed shower, as this type of door is not possible in a frameless shower. However, if you select a frameless shower, you can include side-by-side doors to create a larger opening that mimics the function of fresh doors.

Is Cost a Factor?

Due to the added thickness of the frameless shower, the material cost is slightly higher. In addition, the installation can be more time-consuming. However, the decades of expertise the Butcher & Butcher Construction team brings to every project means they will get the job done on time and on budget every time. So, the true deciding factor is what you want to see when you retreat to your master shower for some me time, reflection, and thoughtful moments that many feel only occur when they relax in this most inspiring space. If you are updating or building a new home in the Detroit, Franklin, and Rochester area, please reach out to Butcher & Butcher Construction today to discuss your custom bathroom and shower design.