Custom made shower screens are shower screens that are made to fit your bathroom. These are measured up accurately. They take into consideration any ‘out of square’ sections in your bathroom. (There should be fall on the floor in your bathroom so water can go down the drain and hence, it should be out of square to some degree). Custom made shower screens accommodate this and make installation easier. Qualified Glaziers are the most suited tradesmen to measure up and install shower screens.
Pre-fabricated shower screens are those that use glass panels that are a set size. Generally, toughened glass, which means the glass cannot be resized or adjusted in any way. Although these may be cheaper in the short term, long term they may not be the best solution. Installing these can be more difficult due to the nature of the design of bathrooms. We don’t install these sorts of shower screens due to these factors. Our focus is on quality rather than price. We understand that we may not be the right company for everyone, particularly if price is the major decision factor.
Benefits of a Custom Shower Screen
A custom shower screen offers premium quality and a perfect fit. Here’s why homeowners in Wollongong, Dapto, and the wider Illawarra region often choose this option:
- Tailored fit: Every millimetre is measured precisely to suit your space, including out-of-square walls.
- Greater design freedom: Choose from a range of glass thicknesses, finishes, and hardware styles to match your bathroom.
- Professional installation: Your glazier ensures the screen is sealed, aligned, and built to Australian safety standards.
- Sleek appearance: Custom screens often feature seamless joints and minimal hardware for a clean, luxurious look.
- Durability and longevity: Custom installations typically use thicker glass and higher-quality fittings, reducing maintenance and repair costs in the long run.
Disadvantages of Custom Shower Screens
- Premium products have a premium price tag
Benefits of Pre-Fabricated Shower Screens
Pre-fabricated shower screens are convenient, readily available, and cost-effective. Here’s why some homeowners opt for them:
- Lower upfront cost: These kits are generally cheaper to purchase.
- Fast availability: You can pick one up from a retailer and install it immediately.
- DIY-friendly: Some homeowners install them without professional help.
- Variety of standard designs: Choose from clear, frosted, or patterned glass with pre-set frame finishes.
However, pre-fabricated screens aren’t ideal for every home. They can leave small gaps if your walls are not perfectly square and may require silicone fixes to make them watertight. Over time, those fixes can deteriorate and cause leaks or mould growth.
Disadvantages of Pre-Fabricated Shower Screens
- It is hard finding a qualified Glazier to install these (we will not install anything that isn’t made by us. This is due to being a nightmare to install as well as warranty issues on the glass). Many other glazing companies are similar.
- Warranty issues can arise
Custom vs Pre-Fabricated Shower Screens: Side-by-Side Comparison
To help you visualise the key differences, here’s a simple comparison table:
| Feature | Custom Shower Screen | Pre-Fabricated Shower Screen |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Perfectly tailored to your space | Standard sizes only |
| Design options | Fully customisable (frameless, semi-frameless, sliding, etc.) | Limited preset designs |
| Installation | Professionally measured and fitted | DIY or quick install |
| Cost | Higher upfront, better long-term value | Lower upfront, potential hidden costs |
| Durability | Built with premium materials | Varies by brand and model |
| Maintenance | Easier to clean, fewer joints | More joints, more cleaning required |
| Best for | Unique layouts, modern or luxury bathrooms | Budget renovations or rentals |
Which Shower Screen Option Is Best for You?
If you want a seamless, modern look and a shower that fits perfectly, a custom shower screen is the way to go. It’s ideal for newly renovated bathrooms, irregular layouts, or when design is a key priority.
If your bathroom is standard-sized or you’re renovating on a tight budget, a pre-fabricated screen might be sufficient, especially for investment properties or short-term solutions.
At Haines Glass, we help homeowners choose the right screen for their space, whether it’s a premium custom installation or a high-quality prefabricated fit.
Expert Tips from Haines Glass
- Check your walls and floors. If they’re out of square, a pre-fabricated screen may not seal correctly.
- Consider the long-term look. Cheap fittings can corrode quickly in humid bathrooms.
- Ask about warranties. A reputable glazier should offer at least a 5-year warranty on workmanship.
- Think about cleaning. Frameless custom screens are easier to maintain than framed prefab units.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install a pre-fabricated shower screen myself?
Yes, you can, provided you have the right tools and experience. However, sealing and aligning the panels correctly can be tricky, so a professional installation is recommended to prevent leaks.
Are custom shower screens safer?
Both custom and prefab options use toughened safety glass, but custom screens are fitted precisely, reducing stress points that can occur from improper fitting.
What type of shower screen adds more value to a home?
A well-installed custom shower screen can add a touch of luxury and increase perceived property value, especially in high-end bathrooms.
How long does installation take?
A pre-fabricated screen can be installed in a few hours. A custom shower screen typically takes a few days to manufacture and around 2 to 3 hours to install once ready.
How do I keep my shower screen clean?
Wipe it down with a glass-safe cleaner after each shower and avoid harsh abrasives. Custom frameless screens are easier to clean because there are fewer corners and seals for grime to collect.
Who should install the Shower Screen?
Often when renovating a bathroom, a shower screen may be included in the complete renovation. It is important to ask the questions about where the shower screen is supplied from (whether it is pre-fabricated or custom made) and who is installing the shower screen.
Ideally a qualified Glazier is the most knowledgeable and experienced person to complete installs, however, many others have skills to complete installs successfully.
If you have any questions regarding a new shower screen email us at info@hainesglass.com.au or call us on 42617295 and we can help assist you.
