Everything You Need To Know About Bath Shower Screens

Yes, a good shower is essential, but what’s even more essential is a good shower screen, especially if you’re a proud owner of a shower bath and don’t want to spoil the look with a curtain which can sometimes look old fashioned and messy.

Bath shower screens are a great way to ensure your bathroom not only stays splash-free whilst you shower, but also looks good. Wondering where to begin? Our handy guide will tell you everything you need to know about bath shower screens, helping you to add a touch of class…sorry, we mean glass, to your bathroom.

 

What Even is a Bath Shower Screen?

Bath shower screens are glass panels which stop that terrible flood that comes from using your combined bath and shower setup. They are, in our honest opinion, better looking than shower curtains and much easier to clean, making them our top choice when it comes to bathroom puddle preventers.

Bath shower screens are fixed to the wall usually using a type of hinge mechanism. They are usually made from glass in varying degrees of thickness, and can also boast extra bits such as handles to make your pre-caffeine morning shower that little bit less precarious.

What Are The Different Types of Screen?

Single Panel: These are generally made using one single pane of glass which can be moved via a hinge. These tend to be the most common choice as they provide a clean and fuss-free design that doesn’t have lots of nooks and crannies for muck to build up in. Many single panels also feature a frameless design for the ultimate in a minimalist style.

Double Panel: These have a hinge in the centre of the screen meaning they can be opened in a few different ways. They can work in a similar way to shower doors which is great if you lack space or want that extra bit of splash protection. Double shower bath screens tend to measure up a bit longer too – handy if you’ve got a longer bathtub that needs that extra stretch.

Folding Screen: Folding bath shower screens can be pushed and folded into a narrow shape when not in use. This looks neat and provides easier access to the tub; fantastic if you are giving the kids a bath. They’re also great for smaller bathrooms where you don’t want a fixed pane of glass intruding into your space.

How Do They Measure Up?

The size of screen you should go for really depends on the size of your bathtub and the power of your shower kit. They are generally measured in millimetres, and come in a huge range of widths and heights, usually standing between 1400 – 1500mm. They’re also available in a range of different shapes to suit your bath if you’ve got something a little different!

The thickness of bath shower screens usually ranges from 3mm to 8mm. The thicker shower screens feel more luxurious but they are also a lot heavier – something to consider if your bathroom is in the top floor or more difficult to get to. The thinner ones can feel a little flimsier but certainly do the job, often for a fraction of the cost.

 

Are They Easy To Install?

Installing bath shower screens is easier than many people think but if you are worried, feel free to seek the advice of a professional. While DIY can save both time and money, we’re not sure it’s worth damaging your brand-new screen or wall for! It’s perfectly possible to fit one yourself with some determination and a quick search of YouTube for some guidance.

 

Do They Need Much Aftercare?

While they don’t need much in terms of maintenance, bath shower screens do need to be cleaned regularly to stop them from becoming stained. The best way to do this is to give your bath shower screen a quick wipe down after each use. More expensive bath shower screens have an easy-clean coating which will make the job even easier. Whilst it may seem excessive cleaning after every use, it’ll help keep your bathroom looking in tip-top condition and your shower screen will look brand-new for longer.

 

How Safe Are They For Families With Young Children?

Very safe! While we understand your concerns especially when comparing a shower screen to a shower curtain, high-quality shower screens shouldn’t cause any problems in your family bathroom. Ensure your bath shower screen is built from high-quality, toughened safety glass or you may come to regret it later on. The glass will also be bevelled, creating a smooth edge. If you’re worried, opt for a folding shower screen which can be tucked out of the way if the kids are around.

All of our glass bath screens that we have at Drench are manufactured using reinforced safety glass for your complete peace of mind.

How Much Do They Cost?

The price of your over-bath shower screen will depend on the thickness and quality of the glass, size of the screen, and style. Thinner, straight-edged models with no extra features can cost as little as $100. These budget-friendly and cheap shower screens will certainly do the job but might not look quite as brand new a couple of years down the line. It’s important that you purchase a bath shower screen that’s an adequate size and strength to contain the spray from your shower – even if this means spending a little more money!

 

Can You Use Them On Any Bathtub?

Although bath shower screens are often used on straight bathtubs to contain the water from the shower, they can be custom-built to slot into many different shapes and sizes of baths. Our ever-popular L- and P-shaped shower baths that provide extra standing space are available with matching screens for a cohesive look. Bespoke shower screens can even be made to slot underneath sloping walls or other tricky angles. Whilst you might pay extra for a custom design, the finished look combined with a splash-free bathroom makes the cost more than worth it.

Extra Features

While a single pane of high-quality glass looks great in a minimalist bathroom, there’s always the temptation to go for something a little extra. Glass shower screens these days can be purchased with beautiful designs to suit your style of bathroom. They don’t have to be bland and can easily bring a touch of glamour to the room. Some shower screens have handles, towel rails or shelves for added convenience, and these also save you valuable bathroom space.