Avoid These Common Mistakes When Installing a Corner Glass Shower Enclosure

A bathroom remodel is an exciting project, but it comes with challenges, especially if space is limited.

If you are thinking about installing a corner glass shower enclosure, you’re making a smart choice! These enclosures not only save space but also add a touch of elegance to your bathroom.

However, incorrect installation can lead to water leaks, drainage issues, safety concerns, and costly repairs.

To help you get the most out of your bathroom renovation, Shower Lagoon, a trusted glass shower door and enclosure company, has compiled a comprehensive guide on common installation mistakes. We also provide expert solutions to help you set up a corner glass shower enclosure flawlessly.

Let’s get started.

Don’t Make These Errors When Installing A Corner Glass Shower Enclosure and How To Solve Them

Here are the common mistakes made when installing a corner glass shower enclosure to help you make an informed decision. We will also discuss their benefits.

Why Choose a Corner Glass Shower Enclosure?

Before we get into the mistakes, let’s discuss why corner glass showers are a popular choice for homeowners.

They are a perfect space-saving solution, especially for small bathrooms, as they utilize unused corner areas effectively. The sleek and transparent glass panels create a modern aesthetic, making your bathroom appear bigger and brighter.

Compared to traditional open showers, a glass enclosure provides better waterproofing by preventing water splashes and keeping the floors dry. They are also easier to maintain than shower curtains or framed enclosures with metal components, which can rust.

Moreover, a well-installed corner glass shower can increase the value of your home, as it gives the bathroom a high-end and contemporary look.

Corner Shower Enclosure Installation Errors to Avoid

Let’s go through the top errors to avoid and how to get everything right from the start.

1. Poor Drainage Planning

Mistake: Ignoring Drainage Considerations

Many homeowners focus solely on the design aspect and overlook the drainage system. Improper drainage can lead to water pooling inside the shower, slow draining, and even leakage into other areas of the bathroom.

Solution: Plan Ahead for Efficient Water Flow

To avoid this issue, check the drain position before installation to ensure it aligns properly with the shower base. The shower floor should have a slight slope of about one to two percent, allowing water to flow naturally toward the drain. Using high-quality drain covers will also help prevent clogging while ensuring quick water flow.

If you are remodelling an older bathroom, consider upgrading the drainage system before installing the new corner shower enclosure.

2. Inaccurate Measurements Leading to Gaps

Mistake: Guessing or Rounding Off Measurements

Taking incorrect measurements can lead to a poorly fitted enclosure with gaps that allow water to escape. This also causes instability, making the enclosure unsafe.

Solution: Take Precise Multiple Measurements

It is essential to use a laser level and measuring tape to get exact dimensions. Since not all walls are perfectly straight, you must account for any irregularities that might affect the fit. For bathrooms with unusual dimensions, choosing custom-fit shower glass panels is the best option.

3. Choosing the Wrong Glass Thickness

Mistake: Using Glass That Is Too Thin or Too Thick

Selecting the wrong thickness can affect safety, durability, and installation difficulty. Glass that is too thin is prone to breaking, while overly thick glass can be unnecessarily heavy and difficult to install.

Solution: Opt for the Right Thickness for Your Needs

For most homes, eight to ten-millimetre tempered glass is ideal as it provides the right balance between strength, safety, and affordability. Frameless glass gives a sleek and seamless modern look, but it should be thick enough to maintain durability. For households with children or seniors, laminated glass is a safer option since it holds together even if broken.

Thicker glass is not always better because it adds weight, requiring stronger glass shower hardware and professional installation.

4. Ignoring Waterproofing and Sealing

Mistake: Using Low-Quality Sealants

One of the biggest problems with shower enclosures is water leaks, which often result from poor sealing at the seams and corners.

Solution: Invest in High-Quality Sealing

To prevent leaks, use a high-grade waterproof sealant and apply it evenly, ensuring there are no air bubbles or gaps. Regularly inspecting and replacing worn-out sealing strips will help maintain waterproofing over time.

Many people forget to seal the area where the shower enclosure meets the wall, which can lead to long-term water damage.

5. Placing the Door in the Wrong Direction

Mistake: Poor Door Placement

If the shower door is installed in the wrong direction, it can block access to essential bathroom elements such as the toilet, vanity, or cabinets, reducing functionality.

Solution: Choose the Right Door Style for Your Space

Sliding doors are an excellent option for small bathrooms since they do not require additional clearance space to open. In larger bathrooms, outward-opening doors are more practical as they provide easier access. Before finalizing the placement, ensure that there is sufficient clearance space for the door to open smoothly.

6. Using the Wrong Wall and Floor Materials

Mistake: Installing the Shower on Weak Surfaces

If the wall and floor materials are not suitable, the enclosure may not be securely installed, which can lead to stability and safety concerns.

Solution: Use Durable and Water-Resistant Materials

To ensure longevity and stability, opt for high-hardness tiles or stone for the shower walls. Choosing non-slip flooring inside and outside the shower will also improve safety. Adding a textured shower mat can further reduce the risk of slipping.

7. Overlooking Cleaning and Maintenance Needs

Mistake: Choosing High-Maintenance Materials

While some shower enclosures look stunning, they can be difficult to clean. Soap scum and hard water stains tend to accumulate, making maintenance a hassle.

Solution: Prioritize Easy-to-Maintain Features

To reduce cleaning efforts, choose water-repellent glass coatings that minimize streaks. Frameless designs are also easier to maintain since they eliminate metal frames where grime can build up. If you opt for a sliding one, avoid deep tracks, as they tend to collect dirt and require frequent cleaning.

Keeping a squeegee in the shower and wiping the glass panels daily will prevent soap scum buildup and keep your enclosure looking spotless.

8. Failing to Account for Bathroom Ventilation

Mistake: Ignoring Proper Airflow

Poor ventilation causes moisture buildup, leading to mould growth inside the shower and bathroom walls.

Solution: Improve Ventilation

To enhance airflow, install a powerful exhaust fan that effectively removes humidity. Leaving the shower door slightly open after use allows air circulation, preventing moisture buildup. Mould-resistant paint and caulking also provide extra protection against mould and mildew.

9. DIY Installation Without Proper Knowledge

Mistake: Attempting Installation Without Experience

While DIY installation might seem like a cost-saving option, improper execution can result in misalignment, leaks, and even shattered glass.

Solution: Know When to Call a Professional

If you are not experienced in shower enclosure installation, hiring an expert service like Shower Lagoon ensures a safe and precise setup. With years of expertise in designing and installing high-quality glass enclosures, we guarantee a seamless installation that enhances your bathroom’s durability and aesthetics. If you choose to install it yourself, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and double-check the leveling and sealing before completing the job.

 
A corner glass shower enclosure is a stylish and functional bathroom upgrade, but it requires careful planning and proper installation to prevent costly issues. By avoiding common mistakes and following best practices, you can enjoy a leak-free, low-maintenance, and visually stunning shower that enhances both the room’s functionality and aesthetics. At Shower Lagoon, we take pride in offering customized glass solutions tailored to your space, ensuring long-lasting beauty and performance for your bathroom.