Glass shower screen: beautiful and functional bathroom design

There are many ways to decorate bathrooms today. Along with the classic shapes, modern techniques and functional items such as the glass shower screen are gaining momentum. She copes with a number of tasks, both practical and aesthetic. This article will tell you more about the design features and the rules for its selection.

The glass partition is designed to decorate the shower area in the bathroom

Glass shower partitions: appearance and structural features

The shower partition is the best way to solve the problem of creating a small enclosing structure in the bathroom. The purpose of using such a product is to make the room for water procedures not only functional, but also practical, convenient and beautiful. The peculiarity of this piece of furniture is its versatility. The partition can be matched to literally any bathroom. Ideally, it can be made according to an individual order, taking into account the required dimensions and design features of the room.

Glass partition allows you to zone the bathroom space

The absence of frames, lintels and frame gives the product visual lightness, airiness, even weightlessness. As a rule, for the manufacture of glass partitions in the bathroom, tempered glass is used, which is characterized by heat-resistant and ultra-strong characteristics. This material is several times stronger than ordinary glass. Even if the glass breaks, the fragments will be blunt, so there is no chance of cutting yourself.

Externally, it is a piece of sheet glass of a certain size. More often, there are models without a frame with fittings that are attached directly to the glass. This is a frameless partition.If the structure has a frame, then an aluminum frame in the form of a profile can be added. This is a framed partition.

Functionality of glass partitions in the shower

The partition in the bathroom is installed in two cases: if it is necessary to divide the room into functional zones without prejudice to the total area or for the purpose of arranging a shower cabin. Both options are advantageous in favor of glass partitions, since two tasks are solved at once: design and functional.

Glass shower screen looks beneficial in any bathroom design style

Partitions help to most rationally distribute space in a bathroom of any area, fully coping with their original functions:

• defining boundaries;
• protection of the room outside the shower from splashes and foam;
• visual isolation, allowing you to hide the person taking a shower from prying eyes.

Useful advice! A glass partition with an opaque or matte finish is ideal for combined bathrooms, as it allows two people to use the room at the same time.

Shower cabin with a glass partition ideal for a small bathroom

Due to the functionality, partitions in bathrooms are used not only in small apartments with a shared bathroom, but also in private houses and public places. For example, in sports clubs, medical or educational institutions, they are used to separate several shower sections. The functional features of the partitions formed the basis for their classification. In addition, designs are distinguished by the options for using and combining materials, by the presence and number of component parts.

Advantages of a glass bathroom partition

The main advantages of glass partitions lie precisely in the material from which they are made, since tempered glass itself has a number of advantages:

1. Shockproof. Almost complete resistance to mechanical damage is guaranteed by a rather thick glass of 5-12 mm, which is tempered by high temperatures.
2. Ensuring hygiene. Glass panels can be washed using a variety of abrasive substances without fear of cloudiness or damage.
3. Safe use. Even in extreme cases, when the glass does break, it poses no threat. This is due to the fact that very small fragments are formed without sharp edges, and a special protective film prevents them from scattering.
4. Universal design. Glass shower partitions will fit perfectly into any interior.
5. Compactness. Partitions of small dimensions and light weight are made to individual order, which allows them to be used both in spacious bathrooms and in compact bathrooms.
6. Aesthetics. Stylish and beautiful appearance, as well as the possibility of decoration deserve special attention. Glass partitions have a stunning appearance. They serve as an excellent addition to the interior, while protecting the environment from the harmful effects of moisture. And the ability to make a product to order allows you to purchase a practical thing in accordance with the overall design.
7. Tightness. Fastening to the wall using special seals and high-quality fittings provides reliable protection against water penetration outside the partition.

In addition to its direct purpose, the glass partition serves to create a unique bathroom design

Aesthetics and tightness of glass bathroom partitions

Using the design in combination with the appropriate lighting will add style to the room, giving the room an extravagant look.If the general interior is supplemented with original accessories and elements of bathroom decor in the form of glass shelves, chrome holders, hangers and hooks, then consistency of style and comfort are guaranteed.

Important! The main tightness of the partition is provided by a special transparent seal. It is attached directly to the glass. Due to the plasticity of the material, the maximum fit of the openings is created. In this way, the threat of water leakage and splashing is minimized.

Along with the aesthetic characteristic, the partition plays another important role in ensuring the tightness of the room. Reliable fastening, the use of silicone seals and special profiles exclude any possibility of leakage. For use in conditions of high humidity, fittings of the highest quality are used, which do not need special processing. It is enough to wipe the branded products with a soft cloth to make it shine like new.

In order for the partition to serve for a long time, it is necessary to choose high-quality fittings and sealant

There are three degrees of tightness of partitions in the bathroom:

1. The contour line provides protection against runoff and splashing along the entire run of the line.
2. Profile guides and seals prevent water from flowing out of the glass at the bottom of the shower stall.
3. Partitions without contour, protective profile and sill have the lowest level of impermeability. Such structures are installed as a decoration, and not for the sake of tightness.

Types of shower partitions made of glass for a shower in appearance and structure

There are several essential features that underlie the different classifications of shower screens. First of all, designs differ depending on the presence or absence of a frame.

Frameless partitions have a more airy, even weightless appearance. In a small room, they visually increase the space. At the same time, such structures, due to the lack of a seal, do not have reliable protection against moisture and are more susceptible to mechanical damage.

Frame shower screens are more reliable than frameless structures

Frame models are more reliable, since the profile protection prevents water from splashing behind the partition. Frames are made of metal or plastic. A silicone profile is placed between this material and the glass. If you add equipment, several accessories and additional fittings, then the structure can be easily transformed into a comfortable shower cabin.

The disadvantage of a partition in the frame is that dirt can accumulate at the junction of glass and metal and, as a result, fungus can form. If the chrome finish is damaged, rust can occur on metal parts.

Partitions are divided into several types, based on their shape. In particular, they are angular, U-shaped, triangular, multifaceted and even rounded. At the top, the structure can be flat, arched, or wave-shaped.

Depending on the structure of the glass, the partitions canvases are distinguished by matte, transparent, tinted, stained-glass windows, decorated with photo printing or other types of decoration. According to the principle of mobility, stationary or mobile structures are distinguished, the location of which is changed with the help of special rollers.

Shower enclosure can be fully or partially made of glass

Classification of partitions for a shower by functional features

In the presence of doors, partitions, based on the method of their opening, are divided into swing, sliding, pendulum and accordion-type products. Swing models are installed in shower rooms with a large area. A separate type in this classification is made up of structures that do not have doors at all - with a simple opening.

Useful advice! The installation of a glass partition for a bathroom is possible in different places: on the bathroom, on the shower tray or in order to divide the space in the shower room. This must be taken into account even at the stage of custom design or product selection.

The functionality of the partition depends on the material used. In accordance with this feature, structures are divided into those made of sheet material and glass-block ones. Light transmission also forms the basis of a separate classification. Products can be transparent, translucent or opaque. Impervious ones are usually used in a shared bathroom (in order to use the bathroom at once by two family members).

The accordion divider is the perfect solution for small bathrooms

Mobility is also at the heart of classification. On this basis, stationary partitions and transformers are distinguished. The latter can be easily reinstalled in any convenient place or simply removed. A roller mechanism is used for movement. Depending on the purpose, partitions are used for mounting shower cabins or for functional zoning of space in a shower or bathroom.

Partitions for a shower or shower cubicle: which is better

A shower cubicle and glass partition have a number of their undeniable advantages, but there are a number of reasons why the installation of a partition is becoming a preferable option. First, it is relatively low cost. The price of a partition can be several times less than the cost of a shower cabin.

Secondly, partitions are widely used in the interior. The range of cabins is limited and cannot always fit into a small room. In choosing a partition, the key word remains with the buyer, who himself decides on its size. Moreover, the owner can order the manufacture of a structure of suitable dimensions and design.

Glass partition can be equipped with chrome handles or other details for ease of use

Thirdly, the efficiency and ease of installation of the partition. This advantage allows for self-installation, requiring minimal construction skills from the owner. The services of specialists are also inexpensive. The installation of a cab requires a professional approach, as well as a significant amount of time, cost and effort.

The main advantage of the partition over the shower stall is its compactness. The cockpit is more bulky, it literally eats up useful space, especially in a small room. This fact explains the growing popularity of glass partitions in recent years.

Material of partitions for shower cabins: plastic and its features

A variety of materials are used in the manufacture of partitions. When making a choice, they are guided by the price, practicality, functionality and durability of the finished product. Various types of plastic and glass are mainly used. Let's consider the features of each of them.

Related article:

Glass shower enclosure without pallet: a comfortable solution for the bathroom
Features of choice, taking into account the size and shape of the room, design options. Choice of fittings, advice on installation. Features of care.

Plastic is a polymer material, the main advantage of which is its price. Partitions made of polymeric materials cost at least half the price. In addition, they are lightweight, easy to transform. A plastic product is much easier to give the desired shape and design. In addition, this material heats up much faster. Such cabins are strong and safe enough. They cannot be broken, even with a strong impact, cracks simply form on the partition.

The frameless partition made of solid sheet glass looks very elegant in the bathroom interior

Useful advice! In an apartment with small children and animals, it is better to purchase a partition made of safer and lighter material - plexiglass or plastic. Subsequently, this temporary structure can be easily replaced with a glass product.

The disadvantage of plastic is that it is easy to scratch the surface, even when using abrasive detergents. Bathroom constructions are made from different types of plastic. The polycarbonate shower screen is more viscous and more shock-resistant. Acrylic is more scratch resistant.

Glass shower partitions: material advantages

Silicate glass is significantly more expensive, but has many more advantages than plastic. The glass is more transparent, looks solid, there are practically no traces of scratches on it. With proper care, glass showers last quite a long time, and cleaning them is quite simple. The service life of glass doors and partitions is longer and easier to maintain. In order to prevent injury, it is not recommended to use ordinary glass for the manufacture of structures.

Often, to save space, a bath is combined with a shower and a glass partition is installed.

Tempered glass is used for partitions. The material after the impact crumbles into small fragments without sharp edges. To avoid such consequences, you need to handle the product with care. A subtype of tempered glass is triplex. The multilayer material is distinguished by the presence of a polymer film between the sheets.

Caring for glass is quite simple. Easy maintenance is provided thanks to a special coating that manufacturers apply to the surface. Due to the formed film, the drops simply flow down, leaving no traces. The price of a shower partition made of such a material is much higher than that of glass that is not subject to processing, since not all manufacturers of sanitary equipment specialize in such production.

An easily washable coating is created in two ways. In the first case, the glass surface is subjected to micro-grinding by introducing nanoparticles into the glass. The maximum effect is achieved, which lasts for decades. This technology is used by leading companies in the production of glass sanitary ware. The price of such a partition is, of course, impressive, but the quality justifies the cost. Another method is more budgetary, it consists in surface application of a special composition to the material. The service life of such a coating is no more than five years.

Manufacturers coat shower screens with a special compound that makes them easier to clean and extends their lifespan.

Design and dimensions of glass shower door and partitions

The configuration of the partition depends on the shape and size of the plumbing, therefore it can be straight, curved or in the form of a trapezoid. The shower door or bath screen can be flat or curved. Some elements are fixed motionless, others are mobile and open, either moving on rollers or by means of door hinges. Comfort and reliability are guaranteed by high-quality fittings. Here you should make the right choice without saving money.

In accordance with the norms, the dimensions of the shower partitions have some limitations, which is determined by the dimensions of the glass sheet from which the product is made. Dimensions also depend on the type of construction, which determines their performance.

So, a frameless shower partition can have a maximum height of 2.7 m and a width of 4 m. The glass thickness of the product ranges from 7 to 12 mm. A product with a frame is characterized by the same thickness. But the height of the frame structure can reach 3.2 m with a maximum width of 6 m.

The shower screen is made of tempered glass, which ensures its stability in the event of shock and other damage

Useful advice! A shower partition with doors contributes to the creation of separate comfortable zones in the bathroom for showering, washing and other procedures. At the same time, in order to wash, you do not need to climb into a larger shower cubicle.

Glass partitions for shower cabins: recommendations for choosing

Glass construction manufacturers specialize primarily in shower enclosures and shower doors. The choice of partitions in series production is limited, as this bathroom product is mainly made to order. It is more likely an addition to a ready-made interior than an independent household item.

This feature is based on several factors related to the price of the material, the dimensions of the room, the functional purpose of the structure and the individual requirements of the customer. It should be noted that in virtually any, even a small town, you can find an enterprise specializing in the manufacture of glass products, including shower partitions.

Frameless shower screen creates an airy and light atmosphere in the bathroom

If, nevertheless, a decision is made to purchase a ready-made structure, then during the selection it is advisable to pay attention to a number of details, in particular:

• full adherence of the protective film to the material and the absence of air bubbles, small objects and damage on it;
• on the state of the frame structure. All parts must be securely connected to each other;
• on the quality of the material (both the glass itself and the metal with fittings). It must be durable and moisture resistant;
• on the condition of the partition. It is necessary that it be even, not behaved, without chips, cracks and other flaws.

Features of the installation of shower glass shower partitions

Usually, the direct manufacturers of products are engaged in the installation of devices and objects in glass shower rooms. In the case of buying a finished product from the manufacturer, you can ask directly in the store the contact details of contractors specializing in this type of work. If the product was purchased on the Internet or the contractor was not found, and at home there is all the necessary arsenal of tools, then the installation of the partition can be done independently.

After installing the partition, it is necessary to check the strength and stability of the structure

To do this, you must clearly follow the recommendations below:

1. If the structure consists of parts, it must first be assembled. The process should take place directly in the room where the installation is supposed to be. This is necessary so that there are no difficulties in moving an oversized product around the house, as well as through doorways, which may be smaller than the structure itself.
2. If the product includes a door, then it is better to install it at the very end of the work.
3. Marking for fastening the partition on the walls and ceiling. For this purpose, a special installation profile is used.
4. Drilling holes for mounting fasteners. Their depth should not exceed the size of the fasteners. Manufacturers usually sell parts of the required size as a set.
5. Direct installation. It is necessary to check the reliability and stability of the structure at its new location.

Useful advice! If the installation of a glass partition is supposed to be in close proximity to a shower stall or bathroom, then the joints with the wall must be treated with a sanitary silicone sealant.

Required components for installing a shower screen

Manufacturing process of glass shower partitions

The production of glass partitions requires special equipment, so making an item at home is quite problematic. To understand the complexity of the process, it is enough to get acquainted with the order of its organization.

First, measurements are taken and a sketch is prepared.It should be taken into account that in the case of installing a partition from floor to ceiling, it is necessary to completely exclude the slightest errors in measurements. Allowances are permissible if the structure is not installed to the full height of the room.

According to the finished sketch and drawing, specialists make a project using one of the design programs. Next, they are determined with the main and additional material that will participate in the creation of the partition. With the help of special equipment, the base of the fence of the required size is cut out of a plastic or glass cloth, the edges are processed, sprayed and a protective coating is glued.

You can install the partition yourself, but it is better to use the services of specialists

If the partition is frame, then a production stage is required, including the manufacture of a metal or plastic frame. The assembly of the product is carried out already on site, and immediately before installation.

Examining the finished partition, you should check its compliance with all necessary standards. After all, the quality of the finished product has a direct impact on its comfortable use and safe use of a bathroom with a glass partition.

DIY glass shower partitions: step by step instructions

Craftsmen who do not have the relevant experience should not undertake such a responsible and rather troublesome job. All the more so if we are talking about a complex geometric design. The maximum that can be made at home is a straight partition or a product with a couple of corners. A larger number of them will greatly complicate the process and cause certain difficulties in ensuring tightness. In particular, this applies to products designed to play the role of a shower cabin.

Self-production of glass partitions will require skills and special equipment

Actually, the technology of self-production of a shower partition includes several stages.

1. Calculations and measurements. As in the case of custom-made glass partitions for a shower, it is impossible to make a mistake in measurements if it is installed from floor to ceiling or end-to-end from wall to wall. In these options, you need to be as careful as possible and make measurements with millimeter accuracy.
2. Project creation. For this purpose, it is advisable to use a special program.
3. The choice of material. It is necessary that the metal for the frame meets the requirements described above for use in the shower. The glass must be over 5 mm thick.
4. Open the glass. Only experienced craftsmen can cope with this task on their own, and this can also be done with the appropriate equipment at home. If this is not possible, then it is better to seek help from specialists.
5. Processing the edges of the partition web.
6. Purchase of fastening materials, protective films and accessories.
7. Covering the glass with a protective film. This can be done with water, gradually expelling air bubbles and excess liquid from under the coating.

Important! The selection and cutting of glass must be approached responsibly and competently. It is checked for strength and thickness, which must be at least 5 mm.

Installation diagram of a swing shower screen with dimensions

Glass shower screen: product decoration

Glass is a versatile material and attractive in itself. You can make it even more beautiful using various decorating methods. The most common method is sandblasting. Such processing is carried out using a special apparatus, from which a stream of air with fine sand of a certain caliber is directed. Under the influence of pressure from sand particles, chipped marks remain on the glass - and it becomes dull.

With the help of sandblasting and the use of special patterns from dense material, beautiful matte designs or compositions are created on the glass. In the places where the dense part of the template fits, the glass will remain transparent, and in the holes it will become dull. If you take several templates and adjust the pressure of the sand stream, you can get patterns with a variety of matte shades.

If waterproof paints are added to the sand stream, the matte pattern will be made in the appropriate color scheme. Thus, the use of modern processing technologies and the connection of the master's imagination will help turn a simple partition into a real work of art.

With proper care and maintenance, the glass partition will delight the eye for many years

Glass partitions for a shower room: features of the operation and care of glass

Ease of maintenance is one of the main advantages of glass partitions. The task is greatly simplified by the presence of a special coating from the manufacturer, which ensures easy glass cleaning. In the process of washing, it is important to exclude the use of abrasive agents, using exclusively liquid detergents. If the shower is provided with water filtration, then the threat of calcium salts deposition on the glass is significantly reduced, and this, accordingly, makes maintenance easier.

Even taking into account the fact that tempered glass used in the manufacture of structures for bathrooms is quite strong and shock-resistant, during the installation and operation of the glass partition, care should be taken to avoid sudden movements and slamming doors (if any). During transportation and installation, it is better to cover the end parts of the product with a soft material. It is recommended to carry out work with an assistant.

Thus, an elegant partition has several advantages over a traditional bathroom curtain. With its help, you can visually enlarge the space and make the room more functional. Installing a matte partition in a niche will limit the area for taking water procedures from the rest of the room and make it possible for two family members to use the bathroom at the same time. If you have the appropriate experience, the partition can be made and installed on your own, otherwise it is better to use the services of specialists and make glass partitions for the shower to order.