Bath shower screens are now an essential element in modern bathrooms. They combine usefulness and aesthetics to improve your bathing experience while keeping your bathroom clean and beautiful. Understanding the many aspects of bath shower screens is critical whether remodelling your bathroom or considering an upgrade. Here’s everything you need to know about bath shower screens.
1. What Are Bathroom Shower Screens?
Bath shower screens are glass panels that sit over the edge of a bathtub to keep water from splashing onto the bathroom floor while you shower. Unlike shower curtains, screens provide a sleek, long-lasting solution that adds a modern touch to any bathroom. They are normally composed of tempered glass and come in a variety of styles to suit different tastes and requirements.
2. Advantages of Bath Shower Screens
Bath shower screens have various advantages.
a. Prevent water spills
The basic function of a shower screen is to keep water in the bathing area. This prevents water damage to your bathroom’s floor and walls.
b. Enhance aesthetics
Shower screens have a modern and clean appearance, which enhances the overall style of your bathroom.
c. Easy to maintain
Glass screens are easy to clean and maintain, unlike shower curtains, which can become mouldy and need to be replaced frequently. Most have a protective covering that repels water and soap scum.
d. Durability
Bath shower screens are made of toughened glass, which means they will last. They are scratch and impact-resistant, which ensures a long life.
e. Flexibility
Shower screens come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing them to fit effortlessly into any bathroom plan.
3. Types of Bath Shower Screens
Depending on your bathroom decor and personal preferences, you can choose from a variety of bath shower screens.
A. Fixed screens
A fixed screen is a stationary glass panel with a minimalist appearance. It’s great for bathrooms with a modern or industrial design.
B. Hinged screens
Hinged screens open like a door, making them convenient to use. They are ideal for large bathrooms and offer easy access to the bathtub.
C. Folding Screens
Folding screens have many panels that fold back when not in use. They are ideal for small bathrooms where space is limited.
D. Sliding Screen
Sliding screens include panels that slide down a track, providing a space-saving alternative. They’re great for narrow bathrooms.
E. Curved Screens
Curved screens are intended to fit onto bathtubs with rounded edges. They have a sleek, beautiful design and great water containment.
4. Materials & Features
When selecting a bath shower screen, consider the materials and characteristics that will best meet your needs:
a. Glass thickness
Shower screens are commonly made of tempered glass, with thicknesses ranging from 4mm to 10mm. Thicker glass is more durable and has a higher quality feel, although it may be heavier.
b. Frame style
Framed: Provides additional strength and a classic appearance.
Semi-frameless: Combines the strength of framed screens with a modern aesthetic.
Frameless: Offers a sleek, minimalist style.
c. Coatings
Many screens include a hydrophobic coating that repels water and reduces the formation of soap scum and limescale, making cleaning easier.
d. Safety features
Tempered glass is intended to shatter into little, blunt fragments if shattered, reducing the danger of harm. Choose screens that fulfil safety requirements for enhanced peace of mind.
5. How to Select the Right Bath Shower Screen
Choosing the ideal bath shower screen requires various considerations:
a. Measure your space
Accurate measurements are required to guarantee that the screen fits the bathtub and bathroom layout. Consider the height, width, and curvature of your bathtub.
b. Determine your budget
Set a budget before going shopping. While premium screens give advanced functionality, there are also low-cost choices that offer excellent value.
c. Match your bathroom’s style
Select a screen that complements your bathroom’s style. Frameless screens provide a more basic appearance. Framed or semi-frameless choices offer a more classic look.
d. Accessibility Needs
If you have limited mobility, seek hinged or folding screens that make it easier to get into the bathtub.
e. Maintenance Requirements
Think about how easy it will be to clean and maintain the screen. Coated glass and frameless designs usually require less care.
6. Installation Process
Installing a bath shower screen can be a DIY project if you have basic skills, but professional installation is recommended for a secure and perfect fit. The method normally involves:
- Measure and mark the installation area.
- Drill holes for brackets and attaching hardware.
- To avoid leaks, secure the screen in place and seal the edges with silicone.
- To achieve the best results, always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
7. Maintenance Tips
To keep your bath shower screen looking good and working properly, follow these maintenance tips:
Clean regularly with a non-abrasive cleanser and a soft cloth to eliminate water marks and soap scum.
Wipe Dry: To avoid water stains, use a squeegee to clean the glass after each usage.
Inspect Hardware: Periodically check hinges, tracks and seals to ensure they are in good working order.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use acidic or abrasive cleansers that can harm the glass or coatings.
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
When selecting and installing a bath shower screen, avoid these frequent blunders.
Ignoring Measurements: Not measuring precisely can lead to a bad fit.
Choosing the Wrong Type: Choose a screen that fits your bathroom’s layout and your usage requirements.
Neglecting Maintenance: To keep the screen looking and working properly, it must be cleaned on a regular basis.
Skipping Professional Help: If you are unsure about the installation process, contact a professional to prevent potential issues.
9. Cost considerations.
The price of bath shower screens varies depending on material, size, and features. Basic models start at NZD 100, while luxury options with additional features can cost over NZD 500. If you choose to hire a professional, consider the expense of installation.
In Conclusion,
A bath shower screen is a useful and attractive addition to any bathroom. With so many different styles, materials, and features to choose from, there is a perfect fit for every room and budget. Consider considerations such as size, kind, and maintenance requirements when selecting a screen that improves both the utility and beauty of your bathroom. Invest in a high-quality bath shower screen to make your bathroom cleaner, more organised and visually appealing.
Complement your new screen with an elegant bathroom vanity to create a harmonious design that enhances both functionality and style in your space.
