SHOWER DOOR BASICS

Learn a few tips and considerations to help you buy a shower enclosure

We understand that buying a shower enclosure may be unfamiliar and there may be many unanswered questions at the early stages of your project. Getting answers early is the key. Our goal is to help you understand the basics of a shower door, the purchase factors and decisions you need to make in order to be knowledgeable and feel comfortable in your buying experience.

Anatomy of a Shower Door

Anatomy of a Shower Door

As you think about your shower door, it's important to consider each individual element that contributes to the total look. You may find it helpful by learning a few key terms and phrases that are commonly used when designing shower doors.

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Before You Buy

Before You Buy

The perfect shower door serves as a cornerstone of your entire bathroom design. Before you place your order, make sure you have answers to three crucial questions to ensure an easy installation process:

1. What wall materials are used in your bathroom?

Form and function are equally important and you’ll want your bathroom walls to properly support your new shower door. While you can use thinner glass in just about any space, the type of wall material becomes more important if you’re eyeing a heavier product like ⅜” glass. For fiberglass and acrylic substrates, be sure to follow our specific support guidelines.

2. Where are the wall studs?

Before you order, check out where your wall studs are located, since this is where your door and hinges are mounted. When selecting a heavy glass door, you’ll need double studs for the hinge side and at the threshold.

3. What is the shape of your shower?

Shape

Whether you’re upgrading an existing bathroom or starting fresh, the shape of your shower area can really elevate the space. Our most popular layouts are inline, return, and corner. To learn more about shower shapes and other customization options, check out our online buyer's guide.

DON'T SEE SOMETHING THAT FITS:

Get a custom crafted enclosure in any shape or size for a precise match.

Measuring for Your Shower Door

Measuring for Your Shower Door

Measuring for a shower door may sound like a complex process, but following a few simple steps can ensure your new enclosure fits seamlessly.

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We offer any shower door custom crafted to your specific shower's opening width and height including out-of-level or out-of-plumb conditions. Majority of bathrooms have a 48 or 60 inch opening and a few standard heights for the bath tubs and showers. For common sizes, glass, and finish options see our standard size product for value pricing.

For a full, in-depth guide on measuring for your new shower door, take a look at our How to Measure page.

How to Find Your Perfect Shower Door

How to Find Your Perfect Shower Door

Once you’ve figured out the space for your shower, it’s time to put on your designer’s hat to pick out your ideal shower door. Here are a few questions to get you started.

Where are you using it?

To narrow down your selection, determine whether you want to enclose a bathtub or prefer a shower without tub. Both looks are extremely popular and the answer really depends on the space you have available as well as the individual look you want to achieve.

How will it open?

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Here’s a consideration that entails both logistics and aesthetics. Do you prefer your shower door to slide open and closed or would you like it to swing open? If you choose the second option, check out the actual space to figure out which direction the door should swing — right or left.

Do you want a frame?

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Based on the shape of your shower, determine whether you need a framed shower door or one with metal only visible on the handle and hinges. Both offer sophisticated looks no matter what type of finish you choose.

FIND YOUR DOOR:

Ready to start visualizing your dream bathroom? Check out our interactive tool to help you choose the perfect shower door.

When You’re Ready to Buy

When You’re Ready to Buy

Before you make your final decision, make sure you’ve answered all the questions in our How to Buy guide.

Next, use our dealer locator to help you find a Basco dealer nearest you. They’ll be able to help you answer any questions you may still have and get the exact shower door you want.

When visiting the dealer, be sure to bring a few things to expedite the ordering process:

  • A printout or link on your smartphone to the product page of the exact door you want
  • A written list of your shower space measurements
  • Answers to the questions on the How to Buy page

We offer any shower door custom crafted to your specific shower's opening width and height including out-of-level or out-of-plumb conditions. Majority of bathrooms have a 48 or 60 inch opening and a few standard heights for the bath tubs and showers. For common sizes, glass, and finish options see our standard size product for value pricing.

If you want a custom door, your local dealer can help you determine the right fit for your shape and style preferences.

Understanding Installation

Understanding Installation

Once the ordering process is complete, you’re one step away from finalizing your brand-new shower—you’re ready for installation!

Basco doors should be installed by an experienced installer. It’s an intricate process that needs to be done properly. If you’ve chosen an adjustable door and choose to install it yourself, double check the Before You Install page to make sure your bathroom has the proper structure in place.

For more in-depth help on installing your shower door, check out our installation resources section.

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Learn How to Choose the Right Shower Enclosure

See the factors you need to consider when buying a shower door

How to Buy a Shower Door