Types of Shower Screens: A Basic Overview of Styles and Configurations

Are you struggling to find the perfect shower screen for your bathroom? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make the right choice. As the Head of Purchasing for Ross’s Discount Home Centre for the last 20 years, I’m here to guide you through the various types of shower screens, helping you understand their functionality, benefits, and best applications.

Today, I’ll provide a straightforward overview of the different types of shower screens available, categorised by functionality and frame types. Whether you’re looking to maximise space in a small bathroom or add a touch of modern elegance, this guide will help you choose the right shower screen to meet your needs. Let’s dive into the basics and discover the ideal shower screen for your bathroom!

Shower Screens By Functionality/Configuration

When it comes to choosing a shower screen, how it fits into your bathroom and works within the space can make all the difference. This section will break down the types of shower screens based on their functionality and configuration, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your bathroom’s layout and your lifestyle.

Corner Shower Screens

Corner shower screens are the space-saving superheroes of the bathroom world. Designed to snugly fit into the corner, these corner-entry screens make the most of every inch, creating a dedicated shower area that helps keep the rest of your bathroom dry as a bone. Perfect for small bathrooms where space is at a premium, corner shower screens maximise your room without sacrificing style or functionality.

Best Applications for Corner Shower Screens

Corner shower screens are a match made in heaven for small to medium-sized bathrooms. They’re especially handy in ensuite or family bathrooms where every square meter counts. If you’re looking to make the most of your space while still enjoying a sleek, modern shower experience, a corner entry shower screen is your go-to.

View our range of corner shower screens

Sliding Shower Screens

Sliding shower screens are the ninjas of the shower world – sleek, stealthy, and oh-so-functional. These screens feature doors that glide smoothly along a track, making them an excellent choice for bathrooms where space is tight. Since the doors slide rather than swing out, you won’t have to worry about them bumping into anything. Plus, their clean lines and contemporary vibe bring a touch of modern elegance to any bathroom.

Best Applications for Sliding Shower Screens

Sliding shower screens shine in narrow bathrooms where a traditional door would be more of a nuisance than a convenience. They’re perfect for layouts where space is at a premium or for those looking to achieve a minimalist, modern design. If you’ve got a compact bathroom but still want a stylish and functional shower solution, a sliding door shower screen is your best bet.

View our range of sliding shower screens

Pivot Shower Screens

Pivot shower screens are all about smooth moves and easy access. These screens feature doors that rotate on a pivoting hinge, allowing for a graceful swinging motion that makes getting in and out of the shower a breeze. With a larger opening compared to sliding doors, pivot door screens are perfect for those who need a bit more room to manoeuvre. Plus, they’re super easy to use and maintain – no complicated tracks or rollers to worry about.

Best Applications for Pivot Shower Screens

Pivot door shower screens are best suited for larger bathrooms where you have ample space for the door to swing open. They’re ideal for family bathrooms or anyone looking for a shower solution that’s both stylish and accessible. If you’ve got the space and want a blend of elegance and practicality, pivot shower screens are a fantastic choice.

Walk-In Shower Screens

Walk-in shower screens or shower panels are the epitome of minimalist chic. These sleek glass panels create an open, barrier-free shower area that feels airy and expansive. With no doors to swing or slide, they offer a modern look that’s incredibly easy to clean – no moving parts or tricky mechanisms here. The simplicity of walk-in panels means they blend seamlessly into any bathroom design, providing both functionality and a touch of luxury.

Best Applications for Walk-In Showers

Walk-in showers shine in large bathrooms or wet room-style layouts where space isn’t an issue. They’re popular in luxury bathrooms and are a great option for those needing easy accessibility, such as seniors or anyone with mobility concerns. If you’re after a contemporary, hassle-free shower experience, walk-in panels are the way to go.

View our range of walk-in showers

Shower Doors

Shower doors are the versatile all-rounders of the shower screen world. Available in various styles like hinged (as pictured above), sliding, and pivot, they can be tailored to fit a wide range of bathroom layouts, such as shower alcoves. Shower doors provide a complete enclosure, effectively containing water and adding a polished, finished look to your shower area. Whether aiming for a modern or traditional aesthetic, there’s a shower door style to match.

Best Applications for Shower Doors

Shower doors are suitable for most bathroom sizes, depending on the type of door you choose. Hinged doors work well in larger spaces, while sliding and pivot options are perfect for more compact bathrooms. They fit seamlessly into traditional and modern designs, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their bathroom with a functional and stylish shower solution.

View our range of shower doors

Bath Shower Screens

Bath shower screens are the multitaskers of the shower screen family. Designed for shower-over-bath setups, these screens act as a protective barrier, keeping water from splashing all over your bathroom floor while still allowing easy access to the bath. They’re a practical and space-saving solution, ideal for those who love the flexibility of having both a bath and a shower in one compact setup. Ours are available with a range of fixings, including U shape and F shape bracket mounts, shower wall channels, floor seal rails and horizontal bracing support arms so you can choose the perfect fit for your bathroom.

Best Applications for Bath Screens

Bath screens are a dream come true for smaller bathrooms where space is at a premium. They’re perfect for family or guest bathrooms with a combined shower and bath setup. If you’re looking to make the most of a limited space without compromising on functionality, a bath screen is a fantastic choice.

View our range of bath shower screens

Shower Screens By Frame Type

When looking at types of shower screens, we also have to look at them by frame type. The frame type can significantly impact your bathroom’s look and functionality.

Framed Shower Screens

Framed shower screens are the tried-and-true classics. Featuring a full frame around the glass panels, these screens provide maximum support and durability. They’re typically more affordable than their frameless counterparts, making them a budget-friendly option. Their strong structural integrity offers a reliable and robust solution for your shower needs.

Drawbacks of Frames Shower Screens

The full frame can be a bit of a chore to maintain, as it tends to accumulate dirt and grime over time. Additionally, the heavier appearance of framed screens might not align with modern bathroom designs, which is why you won’t find any fully-framed shower screens at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. We prefer to keep things sleek and stylish!

Semi Frameless Shower Screens

Semi frameless shower screens are like the best of both worlds. They feature a frame around the perimeter but leave the door itself largely unframed. This clever design balances the durability of framed screens and the sleek, modern look of frameless designs. Plus, they offer added water containment, which frameless screens sometimes lack. It’s no wonder these are the most popular type of shower screen, as evidenced by the vast selection available at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. With over 50 models in finishes like silver and black, there’s a semi frameless screen to suit every taste and bathroom style. The Alpine Pivot Door & Return Silver, pictured above, is our most popular model.

Drawbacks of Semi-Frameless Shower Screens

While semi frameless screens are pretty low-maintenance, the minimal framing they do have might still need a bit of cleaning now and then, as any shower does. They might not offer the sleek look that fully frameless designs boast, but they come pretty close! For tips on keeping your shower screen sparkling, check out our “How to maintain a shower screen” article.

Quadrant/Curved Shower Screens

Quadrant or curved shower screens like our Alpine Curved Corner Entry Silver model are the ultimate space-savers with style. Designed for corner installation, these screens feature a curved front that maximises space while offering a chic, contemporary touch. They’re perfect for small bathrooms where every inch counts, providing a functional shower area without cramming the room.

Drawbacks of Curved Shower Screens

Curved glass does come with its own set of challenges. It’s generally more expensive and can be a bit trickier to replace if damaged. Additionally, these screens might offer less interior space compared to their rectangular counterparts. But quadrant shower screens are a fantastic choice if you’re short on space and big on style.

Conclusion

We’ve journeyed through the diverse world of shower screens, exploring everything from space-saving corner screens to sleek, semi frameless options. Each type has its unique benefits, applications, and potential drawbacks, and the right choice ultimately depends on your bathroom’s size, layout, and your personal style preferences.

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a variety of affordable shower screens that cater to every need and design vision. Feel free to visit our Guildford showroom or contact us for expert advice in picking the perfect shower screen for your space.