When it comes to bathroom upgrades, few decisions have as much visual impact as your shower screen.

Glass shower screens aren’t just functional anymore. They’re a design feature that can make a bathroom feel larger, brighter, cleaner, and more premium the moment you walk in.

If you’re renovating, building, or replacing an old screen, this guide will walk you through what matters, what to avoid, and how to choose the right glass shower screen for your space.

You can explore the full range of options here:
👉 https://glasshouseau.com/collections/glass-shower-screens

Why glass shower screens are the standard in modern bathrooms

Shower curtains and bulky framed screens are becoming a thing of the past, and for good reason.

Glass shower screens offer:

• A clean, open feel

• Better light flow

• Easier cleaning

• A more modern, architectural finish

In Australian homes, especially newer builds and renovations, glass has become the default because it balances practicality with design.

How glass shower screens change the feel of a bathroom

One of the biggest advantages of glass is what it doesn’t do.

It doesn’t block sightlines.
It doesn’t visually shrink the room.
It doesn’t compete with tiles or finishes.

Instead, it allows:

• Tiles to be a feature

• Natural light to move freely

• Bathrooms to feel more spacious

• The shower to blend into the room rather than dominate it

This is especially important in smaller bathrooms, where every visual break makes the space feel tighter.

Types of glass shower screens

There isn’t a one size fits all solution. The right shower screen depends on your layout, budget, and design goals.

Frameless glass shower screens

Frameless screens are the premium option.

They use thick, toughened safety glass with minimal visible hardware. No bulky frames. No unnecessary lines.

Why people choose frameless:

• Ultra clean, modern look

• Makes bathrooms feel larger

• Easier to clean with fewer edges

• Suits both minimalist and luxury designs

This is the go to choice for homeowners who want a high end finish that won’t date.

Semi frameless glass shower screens

Semi frameless screens include minimal framing, usually around the perimeter or at specific fixing points.

They’re a popular middle ground because:

• They still look modern and clean

• They can be more forgiving on uneven walls

• They often come in at a lower price point than fully frameless options

If you want the look of glass without going fully frameless, this is often the right balance.

Fixed glass panels

Fixed panels are stationary glass panels with no moving parts.

They’re commonly used in:

• Walk in showers

• Open plan bathrooms

• Wet room designs

Benefits include:

• Minimal hardware

• No hinges or latches to maintain

• A very architectural, spa like feel

Fixed panels are simple, elegant, and practical when designed properly.

Glass thickness and safety

A quality glass shower screen is made from toughened safety glass, designed specifically for wet areas.

This type of glass:

• Is significantly stronger than standard glass

• Meets Australian safety requirements

• Is designed to break safely if ever damaged

Thicker glass feels more solid, reduces movement, and contributes to that premium feel people notice immediately.

Hardware finishes matter more than you think

While the glass itself is clear, the hardware defines the style.

Popular finishes include:

• Matt black for bold, modern bathrooms

• Brushed brass or gold for warmth and luxury

• Polished chrome for a timeless, clean look

Matching your shower screen hardware to taps, mixers, and accessories creates a cohesive bathroom rather than a mix and match look.

You’ll find a range of styles and finishes available across the Glasshouse shower screen collection.

Door styles and access

Depending on your bathroom layout, you might choose:

• Hinged doors

• Pivot doors

• Sliding doors

• Fixed panels with open entry

Each has its place.

The right choice depends on:

• Available space

• Door swing clearance

• Water control

• How the bathroom is used day to day

Good design balances access, splash control, and aesthetics.

Installation: why precision matters

Glass shower screens rely on precision.

Bathrooms are rarely perfectly square. Tiles aren’t always perfectly straight. Walls can be slightly out.

That’s why:

• Accurate measurement is critical

• Fixing points must be level

• Seals need to be done properly

• Hardware must be aligned correctly

A well installed shower screen feels solid, opens smoothly, and doesn’t leak or shift over time.

Poor installation shows up quickly in a bathroom.

Maintenance and cleaning

Glass shower screens are easy to maintain when cared for properly.

Simple habits make a big difference:

• A quick squeegee after use

• Regular wipe downs with a soft cloth

• Avoiding harsh abrasive cleaners

Because frameless and semi frameless screens have fewer crevices, there’s less opportunity for grime to build up compared to older framed designs.

Common mistakes to avoid

When choosing a shower screen, these are the mistakes people regret most:

• Choosing based on price alone

• Ignoring hardware quality

• Not considering door swing or access

• Underestimating the impact of framing on the look

• Rushing installation decisions

A shower screen is something you see and use every day. Small compromises add up fast.

Are glass shower screens worth it?

For most homeowners, yes.

They offer:

• Better durability than curtains or plastic screens

• A cleaner, more modern look

• Easier maintenance

• Strong visual appeal for resale

They’re one of those upgrades that improves daily use and long term value at the same time.

Final thoughts

A glass shower screen isn’t just a functional barrier. It’s a design decision that defines your bathroom.

Whether you’re after something bold and modern, minimal and clean, or timeless and understated, the right glass shower screen will elevate the entire space.

Explore the full range of options here:
👉 https://glasshouseau.com/collections/glass-shower-screens

Choosing the right screen now means enjoying a bathroom that looks good, functions well, and stands the test of time.