Installing a new shower door can be a simple and affordable way to update the look of your bathroom. With so many styles and materials available, it’s easy to find a shower door that fits your taste and budget. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of installing a new shower door so you can tackle the project with confidence.
Step 1: Measure your shower opening Before you start shopping for a new shower door, you need to measure the size of your shower opening. Measure the width from wall to wall at the top and bottom of the shower. Make sure to measure the height from the bottom of the shower to the top of the wall, and add an inch or two to ensure the door fits properly. Write down your measurements so you can refer to them when shopping for a new shower door.
Step 2: Choose your shower door style There are many types of shower doors to choose from, including sliding doors, pivot doors, and frameless doors. Sliding doors are a popular choice for small bathrooms because they don’t take up any extra space. Pivot doors are another popular option because they offer a sleek, modern look. Frameless doors are more expensive but offer a seamless, glassy look that’s hard to beat.
Step 3: Prepare your shower opening Before you start installing your new shower door, you need to prepare your shower opening. Remove any old caulking or adhesive around the frame of your old shower door. If you’re installing a frameless door, you need to make sure the walls are level and plumb. Use a level to make sure the walls are straight, and a plumb bob to make sure they’re vertical.
Step 4: Install the shower door frame If you’re installing a framed shower door, start by attaching the frame to the shower opening. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for this, as the process may vary depending on the type of shower door you’ve chosen. Use a level to make sure the frame is straight and plumb.
Step 5: Install the shower door Once the frame is installed, it’s time to install the shower door itself. For a sliding door, insert the rollers into the frame and attach the door to the rollers. Make sure to adjust the rollers so the door slides smoothly. For a pivot door, attach the hinges to the frame and the door, making sure the door swings freely. For a frameless door, attach the hardware to the walls and the door.
Step 6: Install the shower door handle If your shower door comes with a handle, install it now. Attach the handle to the door according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the handle is securely attached and doesn’t wiggle.
Step 7: Caulk around the shower door Once the shower door is installed, use caulk to seal around the edges. Caulk will help keep water from leaking out of the shower and into the bathroom. Use a caulk gun to apply a thin layer of caulk around the edges of the door. Smooth the caulk with your finger or a caulk smoothing tool.
In conclusion, installing a new shower door can be a great way to add some style to your bathroom and make it feel more modern. With the right tools and a little preparation, it’s a project that can be tackled over a weekend. Just make sure to measure carefully, choose a shower door that fits your style and budget, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
