Are Frameless Shower Screens Safe?

December 6, 2021

What Are Frameless Shower Screens

Frameless shower screens are becoming increasingly popular as their minimalist design and clean lines provide bathrooms with that extra modern look. You can see why frameless shower screens are so appealing when compared to standard shower screens that use visible metal elements and fixings. Frameless shower screens don’t need this type of support as they are made from panels of tempered and toughened glass that is much thicker than the glass used in standard shower screens.

 

How Are Frameless Shower Screens Installed?

Frameless shower screens are made from ultra-tough glass that has a thickness of 10mm. This ensures that they are self-supporting and won’t break into tiny pieces. Installation can be tricky and may lead to excessive leakage if not done by a professional. Though frameless screens are much easier to install than semi-frameless as the latter tend to have more parts that need to be fitted together. While frameless only requires clamps and other small pieces to hold it in place. Frameless shower screens are usually 1-sided (without a door) or 2-sided (with a door). However, it’s not uncommon to see a 4-sided shower screen.

Here is a quick overview of how shower screens are installed:

1. Provide the correct line-markings and positions of the fixed panel wall brackets.

2. Drill the holes and insert wall plugs into the holes. After inserting, cut off all excess.

3. Fix the wall brackets with screws and remove the marks. Get the glass panels ready on a thick towel to avoid damages.

4. Pick up the fixed panel and slowly place it onto the rubber blocks and insert it into 2 wall brackets at the same time.

5. Tighten the grub screws on the brackets.

6. Measure the width of the door opening and allow a gap of its size plus 5mm. Adjust the hinge panel accordingly to make the gap the right size.

7. Spray methylated spirits or water over the sealed area and scrape off the excess silicone with a silicone spatula and allow 2 days for the silicone to dry off.

8. Attach the hinges to the panel and slowly lift the door into position. Slowly rest it onto the blocks.

9. Fix the hinges to the door panel and adjust the gaps so that it is even before tightening the hinges.

10. Test the shower screen.

 

Are Frameless Shower Screens Safe?

Absolutely. Quality frameless shower screens that are made from toughened glass should comply with the Australia Standards Association regulation. As long as the shower screen complies with regulations, you can be assured that it is safe as any other shower screen. We often get asked by customers whether frameless shower screens are safe from shattering. Shower screens that use toughened glass between 6mm to 10mm in thickness that has been heat-treated are not only exceptionally durable but will not break into sharp pieces if it does shatter. Toughened glass is designed to break into cubes, which reduces the risk of serious injury.

Another frequently used type of glass is laminated glass. Laminated glass is made up of 2 panes of glass that is sandwiched on either side of PVC film. It is designed to behave the same as toughened glass if it shatters. However, it isn’t suitable to be used as a screen if it doesn’t have a surrounding frame. 

Frameless shower screens are definitely safe if installed by a trusted shower screen fitter. If you are looking at replacing your old shower screen or planning to install a new shower, talk to our experienced team to find the best frameless glass shower screen. Contact Sydney Frameless Glass today for more information.

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