The Ultimate Shower Screen Buying Guide

Choosing a new or replacement shower screen is an integral part of any bathroom design. Not only does it have to fix the space you must work with, but it has to be functional and complement the overall bathroom design. Finding one shower screen that does all three things is key to having a great shower space and a well-designed bathroom.

Shower screens come in many shapes and forms, and knowing how to select a shower screen will make a significant difference to the outcome of your bathroom. Given that bathrooms are renovated perhaps once or twice in the lifetime of a home, this is something you don’t want to get wrong. Doing so will either cost you a lot of money to correct or leave you with a shower (and even a bathroom) that you don’t like.

Today, we look at choosing the perfect shower screen for your bathroom with this comprehensive shower screen buying guide.

Stock vs. Custom Shower Screens: Why Stock is the Smart Choice

When it comes to picking shower screens, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing between stock and custom options. I’ve seen many Perth homeowners wrestle with this choice, but trust me—stock shower screens often come out on top for good reason.

Stock shower screens, like those we proudly offer at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, deliver outstanding quality, longer warranties, affordability, and style, without the hefty price tag or the long wait times of custom solutions. They’re pre-made and ready to go, which means you can jump straight into your bathroom upgrade without delays. And let’s be honest, keeping your renovation budget in check is always a big win.

From stylish sliding doors to sleek pivot screens in finishes like polished silver or trendy matte black, there’s a stock shower screen to fit practically any bathroom design. Plus, ours come standard with EasyCLEAN nano-coating, which makes cleaning a breeze—something custom providers often charge extra for!

Take it from me: choosing stock shower screens isn’t just practical—it’s smart. For more details, check out our comprehensive comparison between Stock Shower Screens vs Custom Shower Screens.

Bathroom Size

Presuming you’re doing a full bathroom renovation or building a new home, you first need to know what you’re working with before you can even begin to look at shower screens. What size room do you have?

Start by taking measurements of the entire bathroom, from wall to wall, to draw out a floor plan. Place all other items on the floor plan to see how much space you have left over for your shower. Include necessary products such as a toilet and vanity, and if you have space, a bath. Doing this will also help you determine where to position the shower—and, more importantly, what size shower you can have. At the very least, you will need a 900mm x 900mm space allowance. The more space you have to work with, the better, more luxurious shower space you can create.

Look at the space and determine the most practical location for the shower. Consider how the shower door will operate. i.e., will it hit anything if it opens outwards? Will you need a sliding shower screen door, or can you get away with having no door (a walk-in shower using a shower panel rather than a shower screen)?

If you have a small bathroom, now’s the time to weigh the pros and cons of a combined shower/bath to see if a bath is a preferable option. Today, contemporary glass bath screens, such as the range we offer here at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, make bath screens a popular and attractive choice. It’s not like yesteryear when you only had daggy shower curtains as an option. For expert guidance, read our resource article on the best shower screens for small bathrooms.

If you’re not moving any plumbing, then you will already know where the shower is positioned, and you will probably have to work with the same space. However, it may now be worthwhile looking to see if you can better utilise the space, i.e. by having a smaller vanity to maximise shower space. If you can get 900mm x 1200mm, it will be well worth it.

Types of Shower Screens

There are many types of shower screens to choose from, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one to fit your allocated shower space or bathroom design. Common types of shower screens include fully framed shower screens, frameless shower screens, and semi-frameless shower screens, each with various styles and configuration options such as corner entry showers, quadrant entry, sliding doors, bi-fold doors, and pivot doors, which I will touch on later in this article.

You also have shower panels and bath screens, again, with various styles and configuration options.

Fully-Framed Shower Screens

As the name suggests, fully-framed shower screens are fully framed, usually with a robust aluminium frame. The frame is used to protect the glass and aid installation. They are available in a range of configurations and door options and are suitable for bathrooms of all sizes.

Fully-framed shower screens are generally considered an old-fashioned choice of shower screen, primarily because they were the original option before frameless and semi-frameless showers were developed. However, there is nothing wrong with choosing a fully-framed shower. In fact, fully framed shower screens offer significant benefits; the frame that surrounds the glass provides sturdiness and the highest level of robustness of all showers. The downside is that they will inhibit your bathroom design and won’t blend as seamlessly as other types of showers.

Frameless Shower Screens

If fully framed shower screens are the old-fashioned shower screen choice, then frameless shower screens are the modern option. With no frame at all, frameless shower screens are an excellent choice for those looking for a minimalistic solution. Their sleek design allows them to blend seamlessly into a bathroom’s design, allowing it to shine without unnecessary distractions.

Like fully framed shower screens, frameless shower screens are available in various configurations and door options. There is no frame support, so they rely on brackets and/or channels to fix the glass into position. They are durable and made with thickened glass; however, they are susceptible to chipping without the frame’s support.

The Frameless Shower Set is an excellent example of a frameless shower screen. At just $795.00 for a 900mm x 900mm enclosure, it offers stylistic elegance at an affordable price.

Semi-Frameless Shower Screens

Semi-frameless shower screens sit between fully framed shower screens and frameless shower screens. They feature minimal frames to aid installation and stability without being as noticeable as their fully framed counterparts. Rather than being entirely framed, only the outer edges are framed. This helps to create a more sleek design, which will enhance light and maximise space.

Due to the many benefits of semi-frameless shower screens, they are the most common in production. They are available in just about any size and configuration to suit all needs. They combine superior durability with modern designs.

The Alpine Double Pivoting Door & Return Silver is a prime example of a semi-frameless shower screen. It presents excellent value for money starting at just $940.00.

Shower Panels

Growing in popularity over the past 5-10 years are shower panels, the modern shower screen alternative. Contemporary bathrooms all forego traditional shower screens, albeit frameless or semi-frameless, for an even more minimalistic option presented by shower panels.

Commonly only featuring a single panel, shower panels are the best option for those seeking minimalistic design. They rely on brackets and/or channels to fix the glass into position and may come with return panel and bracing arm options.

They are ideal for creating wet rooms and walk-in enclosures and can propel any bathroom into a luxurious retreat. Our Curve Glass Shower Panel is an excellent example. Available in 80cm, 90cm, and 100cm widths, they range in price from $440.00 – $480.00, making them an affordable shower screen solution.

Can’t decide between a standard shower enclosure and a shower panel? Read our walk-in showers vs. shower enclosure comparison to determine the best fit for your bathroom. If you’re leaning towards a walk-in shower for your bathroom, check out our best shower panels for some inspiration.

Bath Screens

If you have limited space in your bathroom, consider a bath screen over a shower screen. While they may be something you love or loathe, bath screens provide the convenience of having a combined bath and shower and offer a modern alternative to yesteryear’s daggy bath curtains.

Bath shower screens come in a range of styles and designs, which are modern and minimalistic. They are easy to install and ideal for families. They come in a range of configurations, including additional fixed panels and swing panels, making them all the more functional.

Ross’s Discount Home Centre has a large range of bath panels starting at just $100. Read our dedicated article on the types of shower screens for a more in-depth look at the different options available.

Read our bath screen buying guide for more information.

Shower Screen Designs

As mentioned earlier, shower screens are available in various styles and configurations to provide improved functionality and aesthetics. Common types of shower screen include corner entry, quadrant entry, sliding doors, bi-fold doors, and pivot doors.

• Corner Entry Shower Screens: Corner entry showers feature two doors that slide open from the shower’s central point. This type of door is ideal for small bathrooms that don’t have the space required for a traditional shower door to open outward.
• Quadrant entry Shower Screens: Quadrant entry showers are similar to corner entry showers—they open from the centre, and the doors slide behind the shower panels. However, unlike corner entry showers, they are curved. They present an elegant design and are great space savers.
• Sliding Shower Screens: Sliding door showers are another option for those who do not want a traditional shower door that swings outward. Instead, the door slides back over the accompanying panel to gain access. As such, sliding door showers need to be longer than standard showers, taking up more space.
• Bi-Fold Shower Screens: Bi-fold door showers are yet another space-saving option that don’t open outward. The bi-fold door folds inward to maximise bathroom space. This is a popular option for small bathrooms as they offer small enclosure sizes (700mm x 900mm).
• Pivot Shower Screens: Pivot door showers are more traditional, opening outward. They offer easy access and come in a range of sizes, from small to large, but may not be best suited to small bathrooms where space is limited. Discover their pros and cons here.

Not sure which type of door to have on your shower? Check out our articles where we compare Pivot Door vs Normal Hinge and Sliding vs Hinged vs Pivot Shower Screens.

Shower Screen Doors

Another consideration when shopping for shower screens is whether you need an entire enclosure or just a standalone shower door—ideal for alcove showers or bathrooms where walls form most of your shower area. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we understand that the right standalone shower door can significantly improve the functionality and comfort of your bathroom.

We offer a variety of stylish shower door options to suit different bathroom layouts:

• Sliding Shower Doors – Ideal for small or narrow bathrooms. These doors glide along a track, taking up no additional floor space when opened.
• Hinged Shower Doors – Great for spacious bathrooms, hinged doors swing outward, offering wide, comfortable access.
• Pivot Shower Doors – Similar to hinged doors but requiring slightly less clearance, pivot doors rotate on a pivot hinge, making them perfect for mid-sized bathrooms or tighter spaces.
• Double Pivot Shower Doors – Featuring two pivoting panels, these doors are perfect for wide alcove shower installations, combining practicality with modern style.

Whether you’re fitting out an alcove shower or just need a standalone shower door, Ross’s Discount Home Centre offers stylish, affordable options to match your bathroom’s design perfectly. Want more detail on door types? Check out our dedicated article on Shower Screen Door Types.

Shower Screen Budget

The Housing Industry Association (HIA) recently published its 2022/23 kitchens and bathroom renovation report, revealing that the average cost of bathroom renovations in Australia stood at $26,747, while bathrooms in new home builds averaged $22,019. In contrast, a survey conducted by Houzz in their 2022/23 Overview of Home Renovation reported significantly lower figures, with the median bathroom renovation cost landing at $19,000. Despite these variances, it’s clear that bathroom renovations can be a substantial investment, particularly for those seeking a luxurious finish.

Your choice of shower screen will play a role in the design and overall look of your bathroom, but your budget may narrow down the selection.

How much does a shower screen cost?

When you’re planning a bathroom renovation, one of the first questions you’ll probably have is, “How much will a new shower screen cost me?” The good news is, there’s a shower screen to suit just about every budget, style, and bathroom size.

If you’re after the most affordable option, walk-in shower panels start at just $200.00 (excluding hardware), making them ideal for creating a sleek, modern bathroom without breaking the bank. Bath screens are another budget-friendly option, beginning at around $280.00, providing excellent versatility for bathrooms combining shower and bath areas.

Stepping up to mid-range options, our Alpine shower screens offer fantastic value. They feature EasyCLEAN nano-coating technology, which simplifies cleaning, and come with a reassuring 15-year warranty. Priced between $760 and $1,320, Alpine screens combine practicality, durability, and timeless style, making them popular among Perth homeowners looking for long-term value.

Whatever your budget, Ross’s Discount Home Centre makes it easy to find a high-quality shower screen at unbeatable prices. Check out our article, How Much Does a Shower Screen Cost?, for a detailed breakdown of prices and everything you need to know.

Shower Screen Maintenance

One of the most difficult areas of a home to keep clean is the shower screen. Water, soap scum, and limestone will inevitably build up over the course of standard use, causing the glass to become cloudy and stained. Removing once and for good once the glass is affected is impossible.

So, what are the options?

After each use, you can either squeegee down the glass to remove liquids or opt for a shower that utilises cutting-edge self-cleaning technology. The shower screens, shower panels, and bath screens in the Lakes Bathrooms and Alpine ranges each feature a nano coating that repels water, soap scum, and limestone, which means you never have to worry about cleaning your shower glass again!

Read our guide on How to Maintain Your Shower Screen and our Shower Screen Maintenance Guide to keep your bathroom looking its best!

Conclusion

When it comes to selecting the ideal shower screen for your bathroom renovation in Perth, there are numerous factors to consider. First and foremost, take precise measurements of the available space to understand your layout. Determining your floor plan is crucial, as it will guide your choice between options like a fully frameless, semi-frameless, or framed shower screen—or even alternative choices like a shower panel or bath screen.

Once you have your layout in mind, consider the functionality and style that best suit your needs. A frameless shower screen offers a sleek, modern look, while a semi-frameless option balances style with structure. If you’re working with a tighter space, the door type—such as sliding, pivot, or hinged—will play a big role in maintaining both accessibility and flow in your bathroom. For those looking for low-maintenance options, think about materials and finishes that resist water spots and soap scum, especially if you’re aiming for a screen that will look pristine with minimal upkeep.

And, of course, don’t forget to set a budget that includes both the cost of the screen and potential installation fees. For expert guidance and a wide selection of high-quality shower screens, shower panels, and bath screens at unbeatable prices, visit Ross’s Discount Home Centre. Our range makes it easy to follow these tips to choose the perfect shower screen and find a stylish, functional solution that aligns with your budget and bathroom needs.

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