Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Shower Enclosure

The Right Enclosure Can Elevate Your Shower Experience

With over 70 years’ experience in putting together blissful and rejuvenating bathroom spaces, we at Flair know a thing or two about creating the ultimate shower sanctuary. Every detail counts when it comes to designing your dream bathroom - it’s essential that you to do the groundwork and research your ideas well before committing your time, money, and resources to a project. However, if done well, your new bathroom will be a place that brings calm, relaxation and happiness into your home.

A key part of any new bathroom is your shower space, a beautiful shower begins with choosing the right Shower Enclosure.

Choosing the right shower enclosure goes beyond aesthetics; it's about functionality, durability, and creating a harmonious space that suits your style. In this guide, we'll explore the key factors to consider when selecting a shower that will turn your bathroom into a haven of relaxation, reconnection and rejuvenation.

1. Material Matters: Quality equals Durability

High-quality materials not only enhance the appearance of your bathroom but also ensure longevity. At Flair, we use only the very best in materials.

In fact, we're so confident in their longevity that we offer up to a life-time guarantee with each of our shower enclosures.. 

It's important that your shower door is crafted from tempered glass, it’s both incredibly durable and safe. Tempered glass is designed to withstand high-pressure water jets and sudden temperature changes, reducing the risk of breakage. It's the perfect choice for a long-lasting, high-end shower space.

2. Style and Design: Choose your Enclosure Type

Your shower enclosure should seamlessly integrate with the overall bathroom design. Consider the architectural style and color scheme of your bathroom when selecting your enclosure.

High-end options offer a plethora of design choices, from sleek frameless designs that create a modern, open feel, to semi-frameless and framed options that add a touch of traditional and classical elegance.

 How many type of Shower Enclosures are there?

·      Frameless Enclosures: These enclosures provide a sleek, modern look with minimal metal hardware. They are ideal for showcasing intricate tile work and creating a spacious feel.

·      Semi-Frameless Enclosures: Combining the elegance of frameless design with the stability of partial framing, these enclosures strike a balance between aesthetics and affordability.

·      Framed Enclosures: Offering more structural support, framed enclosures are a classic choice that can fit seamlessly into a traditional or transitional bathroom design.

Think about the door style too – swinging, sliding, or even a luxurious pivot bifold door that adds a touch of drama.

3. Size and Layout: Finding the Perfect Fit

The dimensions of your bathroom play a vital role in determining the size and layout of your shower enclosure. Measure the available space accurately to ensure a proper fit. Additionally, consider the layout of your bathroom. Would a corner shower enclosure optimize the space? Or perhaps an angular design that adds an interesting architectural element? A high-end shower enclosure should not only look great but also enhance the functionality of your bathroom.

Before diving into the world of shower enclosures, take a good look at your bathroom space. Is it compact and cozy, or expansive and airy? The dimensions of your bathroom will play a significant role in determining the type and size of enclosure that will fit best. Corner enclosures, neo-angle enclosures, and walk-in enclosures are just a few styles that cater to different spatial configurations.

4. Hardware and Finishes: Adding a Touch of Elegance

The hardware and finishes you choose can significantly influence the overall look of your shower enclosure. From elegant brushed nickel to timeless chrome, there's a finish to match any bathroom design. Pay attention to details like handles, hinges, and towel bars – these elements can add a touch of sophistication and tie together the visual appeal of your bathroom.

More premium options offer a variety of finishes such as polished chrome, brushed nickel, and even matte black. Choose a finish that complements other fixtures in your bathroom, such as faucets and cabinet handles, to create a cohesive and polished look. Additionally, opt for high-quality hardware that not only adds elegance but also stands up to the test of time.

5. Glass Quality: Clarity and Maintenance

The quality of the glass used in your shower enclosure matters more than you might think. The heart of any shower enclosure is its glass panels

Opt for glass treated with anti-spot or anti-lime coatings – known as hydrophobic in the industry.  These coatings repel water and mineral buildup, making cleaning a breeze and maintaining the pristine appearance of your high-end enclosure effortless.

 The thickness and quality of the glass can greatly impact both safety and aesthetics. More premium enclosures often feature thicker glass for durability and a luxurious feel. Here in Flair we use tempered glass, which is known for its safety features, as it shatters into small, blunt pieces instead of sharp shards if broken.

6. Seals and Water Management

An effective water management system is crucial in preventing leaks and maintaining a dry bathroom floor. Look for enclosures with quality seals that are designed to keep water inside the shower and away from other areas. Magnetic seals and ultra clear vinyl sweeps are features to watch out for, ensuring a watertight and hassle-free experience.

7. Door Types

The type of door you choose for your shower enclosure can greatly affect accessibility and aesthetics. Common door types include:

·      Hinged Doors: These doors open outward or inward like traditional doors. They require ample space to operate but they give you a generous access width.

·      Sliding Doors: Perfect for larger spaces, sliding doors glide along tracks and don't require extra clearance for opening.

·      Pivot Doors: These doors open outward from a single side, offering a wide entrance and a stylish look.

·      Bifold Doors: Ideal for compact bathrooms, bi-fold doors fold inwards, reducing the amount of space they occupy when opening.

·      Quadrant Doors: Elegant curved space. No sharp angles.

8. Accessibility and Ease of Use: Functionality Matters

A high-end shower enclosure should not only be visually appealing but also functional. Consider factors such as door type and placement. A sliding door might be a smart choice for smaller bathrooms, as it doesn't require extra clearance to open. Additionally, if accessibility is a concern, think about choosing a shower enclosure with a wide entry or a barrier-free design. After all, there should be no need to sacrifice accessibility for aesthetics.

9. Installation and Maintenance: Seek Professional Help

The installation of your shower enclosure is a critical step that determines its durability and functionality. Improper installation can lead to leaks, instability, and a compromised shower experience. To ensure the best results, consider hiring a professional installer who specializes in bathroom fittings. Their expertise will ensure that your enclosure is not only installed correctly but also maintains its integrity over time.

While some enclosures are designed for DIY installation, it's often best to hire a professional to ensure everything is properly aligned, sealed, and secured.

10. Budget, Value for money, and Warranty!

While more premium shower enclosures come with a slightly higher price tag, they also offer unparalleled value in terms of aesthetics, durability, and the overall experience they provide. At Flair we offer a range of shower enclosures across all price ranges and each comes with the Flair promise of excellence, beauty in shape & design, technically perfect, and durability.

 Set a realistic budget and consider the long-term benefits of investing in a quality shower enclosure that will transform your daily routine into a spa-like ritual.

In Conclusion

When investing your dream shower enclosure, it's essential to have peace of mind knowing that your purchase is protected. Look for reputable manufacturers that offer warranties on their products. A solid warranty demonstrates the manufacturer's confidence in their craftsmanship and materials. Additionally, choose a manufacturer that provides reliable customer support, making your journey from selection to installation smooth and worry-free.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect shower enclosure for your high-end bathroom retreat involves a careful balance between style, functionality, and durability.

By considering factors like style, glass quality, door types, water management, and colour, you can make an informed choice that enhances both the aesthetics and practicality of your bathroom.

Remember that a quality shower enclosure isn't just a purchase – it's an investment in your daily well-being and the beauty of your living space. So go ahead, embark on this exciting journey, and create your dream bathroom sanctuary today!