Modernise your bathroom with this DIY project
Installing a shower screen is an easy way to give your bathroom a luxury upgrade. Several types of shower screens are available, including frameless, framed, semi-frameless, sliding doors, and pivot doors. Installing them is an easy job that can give your bathroom the uplifting change it needs.
Shower screen replacement is a relatively easy installation process. The most important consideration is that if your shower is recessed inside a wall, you must get one that perfectly fits the opening. Otherwise, you could be in for some construction. If your shower is tucked into a corner of your bathroom, or you already have a free-standing shower screen, the process is relatively easy. The process involves removing the old shower screen, putting the framework and screen panels in place, and waterproofing them.
With a quick search online, you can find many shower screen ideas and options. Fully-framed shower screens are a popular choice for bathrooms of all sizes. This type consists of glass panels that are supported by an aluminium frame. They are a budget-friendly choice and have a clean, modern look.
Frameless shower screens are sleek and minimalist in their design. This choice features glass panels supported by minimal hardware. They are excellent for small spaces and give the bathroom a high-end, luxury look. You can also choose semi-frameless shower screens, which are between the framed and frameless types in terms of the frame’s visibility.
Sliding door shower screens are an excellent space-saver and a practical solution for small spaces. The doors slide along tracks that are easy to install. Pivot door shower screens open just like a standard door. They are an excellent choice if you have the room. Bi-fold doors and quadrant shower screens are also available. As you can see, you have many choices when it comes to designing your bathroom the way you like it and options for all sizes and shapes of spaces.
Before you get started on your DIY shower screen installation, you will need a few items first.
If you purchased a pivot door type screen, you would also need shower screen door pivot hinges if they are not included in the kit. Before you head out to the hardware store, make sure that you know how to fit a shower screen to your existing shower base. The shower screen should fit just inside the lip of the shower base.
Here are the basic steps for installing a shower screen that applies to any shower screen that you purchase. The main difference between installing a frameless or shower screen with a door is that you may need to install hinges or a sliding track according to the manufacturer’s directions.
1) Make sure you buy the correct type of silicone. Some silicones are designed specifically for bathrooms so make sure you check the packaging before you buy. You should also make sure that there is enough sealant available as most jobs will require more than what comes in one tube of silicone.
2) Prepare the area first by removing any soap scum, grime, or previously applied silicone from around where you’ll be applying the sealant.
3) Before making any cuts with your knife or scissors it’s important to test fit each piece of trim around your shower screen frame several times because once cut, there’s no going back! Take into account any drains at this stage too as it’s easier to move them slightly if necessary than having them in a fixed position during installation later on down the line which might cause unwanted problems.
Before installing your new screen, you need to remove the old shower screen. To do this, loosen the hinges on the door and remove the glass door panel. Next, you can slide the glass panels carefully from their channels. Once this is complete, you can loosen the screws and fasteners from the top, sides, and bottom of the old shower screen. Ensure the area is clean, and you are now ready to install your new one.
Frameless shower screen installation can be an easy process, but handling the big glass panels and getting the framework straight can be challenging for someone inexperienced. The process itself is not complicated, but getting everything flush and secure is the most difficult part. Also, handling the large glass panels can be challenging for those who are not familiar with the task, and there is always a chance that you could break them. Installing a shower screen yourself will probably take more time than if you have a professional handle the job.
Before hiring a shower screen installer, it is important to check their licencing, qualifications. It would be best to ask for references or pictures of jobs they have done. In Australia, shower screen installation must be done according to building codes and regulations because it is a wet area of the house.
The installer must follow waterproofing regulations, floor waste regulations, ventilation regulations, electrical regulations, and other local and state regulations that may apply. In most cases, any bathroom renovations must be carried out by someone who has the proper state licence to do it. These requirements differ by state, and you need to make sure that your professional is licenced to work in the state where you live.
The Oneflare Cost Guide Centre is your one-stop shop to help you set your budget; from smaller tasks to larger projects.