Whether building a new bathroom or remodeling an old one, you’ll have to select a sliding or hinged configuration for the shower’s glass door. Since you'll use this door every day, here’s what you should know about each configuration so you can make the right decision for your bathroom. 

Sliding Door

Instead of opening out, sliding glass doors move from side to side. Coupled with the fact that their handles can serve as towel racks, they’re the ideal choice for tighter spaces. Plus, you can enter the shower from either side, allowing you to turn the water on from outside the enclosure.

Regarding aesthetics, sliding doors tend to look sleeker and more modern than hinged doors, especially if they're frameless. Since the track they slide on can accumulate soap scum, though, these doors require a little more elbow grease to clean. 

Hinged Door

If your bathroom is relatively spacious, you may want to install hinged glass doors that swing out. Because they require less hardware than sliding doors, they’re much easier to keep clean.

They can also provide a larger opening into the shower, which makes them preferable for those with disabilities. Hinged doors are usually easier to navigate around when using a mobility aid to get in and out of the shower. However, when you open them after bathing, they can drip water onto the floor, so invest in extra absorbent bath mats. 

Once you decide what kind of glass door to put in your new bathroom, turn to KKTF Hawaii for shower door installation. Based in Ewa Beach, the specialized glass contractor has served clients throughout Oahu for more than 20 years. They also handle glass repair and replacement. To learn more about their glass and shower work, visit their website, or call (808) 200-0562 to request a free estimate.