If you’re planning a bathroom upgrade, chances are you’ve come across frameless shower screens. These sleek glass panels are a favourite in modern homes because they look elegant and make even small bathrooms feel more spacious. However, before you decide, it’s essential to understand what they’re made of, how they perform, and whether they’re the right fit for your household.
To make things easier, here’s a quick comparison of the three main shower screen types.
| Feature | Framed Shower Screen | Semi-Frameless Shower Screen | Frameless Shower Screen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass Thickness | 6.38mm laminated safety glass | 6mm toughened safety glass | 10mm toughened safety glass |
| Water Retention | Excellent | Good, with minor leakage | Fair, some leakage possible |
| Aesthetics | Traditional and practical | Modern with minimal framing | Seamless, luxury appearance |
| Safety | Very stable, holds together if broken | Shatters safely into small pieces | Shatters into tiny cubes for safety |
| Ease of Cleaning | More joints to scrub | Easier than framed | Very easy with minimal joints |
| Best For | Families, rentals, elderly households | Couples or families with older kids | Style-focused, modern bathrooms |
| Cost | Budget-friendly | Mid-range | Premium investment option |
What Makes Up a Frameless Shower Screen?
A frameless shower screen is basically large panels of toughened glass held together with discreet fittings. Instead of bulky frames, you’ll see:
- 10mm safety glass panels as the main structure
- Brackets, hinges, or wall channels to secure the panels
- Silicone seals at the floor and joins to keep everything watertight
This simple construction is what gives frameless screens their clean, open look.
The Glass: Strong, Safe, and Stylish
When you choose a frameless shower screen, you’re getting 10mm thick toughened safety glass. This isn’t just ordinary glass — it has gone through a special heating and cooling process that makes it four to five times stronger than standard glass.
And here’s the good news: if it ever does break under extreme impact, it’s designed to shatter into tiny cube-like pieces instead of dangerous shards. That’s why it’s classified as Grade A Safety Glass under Australian Standards.
One thing to keep in mind is that frameless screens have small gaps between panels, allowing the doors to open and close properly. This does mean you might get a little water on the bathroom floor, but it’s usually minimal and easy to manage.
Choosing the Right Glass Look
Most people opt for clear glass because it creates a sense of openness and brightness in the bathroom. However, you do have other options, such as frosted or tinted glass, if you want more privacy or a design statement. As long as the glass meets safety standards, you can choose the style that best suits your space.
Fittings and Finishes
The fittings are what give your frameless shower screen that personalised touch. You can select:
- Brackets and hinges in black or silver (our most popular choices)
- Wall channels in matching finishes for fixed panels
- Stabiliser bars for extra strength if your screen is larger or freestanding
These details let you tie the shower screen into the rest of your bathroom design.
Pros and Cons of Frameless Shower Screens
Like any bathroom feature, frameless shower screens have their strengths and drawbacks.
Why you’ll love them:
- Made to measure, so they fit perfectly in your bathroom
- Constructed with 10mm Grade A toughened safety glass
- Create a seamless, spacious look
- Easy to clean with fewer corners and edges
- Premium finish that adds value to your home
Things to consider:
- Minor water leakage can occur through panel gaps
- If broken, the glass shatters into small pieces that can be tricky to clean up
- You’ll need to avoid harsh cleaning chemicals — a vinegar and water mix works best
Cost and Value
Frameless shower screens sit at the premium end of the price scale, but you’re paying for both style and longevity. Unlike prefabricated options, each screen is custom-made to fit your bathroom perfectly. That means even if your walls are slightly uneven or you have a unique layout, your shower screen will fit perfectly and function beautifully.
Frequently Asked Quetions
1. Do frameless shower screens leak?
Frameless shower screens can have small gaps between the glass panels and around the door. This is necessary for the glass to function safely and reduce the risk of breakage. These gaps may allow minimal water leakage onto the bathroom floor, but with proper installation and sealing, it is usually very minor and easy to manage.
2. Are frameless shower screens safe?
Yes. Frameless shower screens are made with 10mm Grade A Toughened Safety Glass that meets Australian Standards. This glass is four to five times stronger than regular glass. If it does break under extreme impact, it shatters into small cube-shaped pieces to reduce the risk of injury.
3. How do you clean a frameless shower screen?
Frameless shower screens are easy to clean because they have fewer joints and edges. A simple microfiber cloth with water or a vinegar solution is usually enough. For the best results, we recommend an EnduroShield coating, which repels water and makes cleaning virtually effortless. Avoid harsh chemicals as they can damage the glass surface over time.
4. How long do frameless shower screens last?
With proper care and professional installation, a frameless shower screen can last many years. The toughened glass is extremely durable, and because each screen is custom-made, it will be designed to fit securely and withstand daily use. Many homeowners find their frameless shower screens last well beyond a decade.
5. Are frameless shower screens worth the cost?
If you value style, durability, and ease of cleaning, frameless shower screens are a worthwhile investment. They enhance the overall look of your bathroom, add property value, and are built to last. While they cost more upfront than framed or semi-frameless screens, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial price.
Final Thoughts
If you want a bathroom that feels modern, open, and luxurious, a frameless shower screen could be the right choice. They look stunning, are made with the highest safety glass, and are easy to maintain. Yes, they’re more of an investment and may allow a little water leakage, but for many homeowners, the sleek design and long-term value make it well worth it.
At Haines Glass, we are expert glass and glazing team who specialise in custom frameless shower screens and can guide you through every step — from design to installation.
