That shower screen. It is not as youthful as it used to be, is it? Perhaps it's all caked in soap scum regardless of how diligently you attempt to clean it, maybe the seals have died, and water is seeping onto the bathroom floor in tiny puddles, or perhaps it's just a little venerable. Whatever the reason, fitting a replacement will probably sound like a chore. Fear not; fitting a replacement shower screen is a feasible DIY job. We'll guide you through it, step by step, so you can achieve a sparkling new bathroom appearance. If the thought of DIY feels daunting, remember that professional bathroom glass shower screen installation services are always an option for a flawless finish.
How Do You Measure for a New Shower Screen?
Before we pick up a screwdriver, we need to take measurements. This is crucial in ensuring your new shower screen fits perfectly. Take a good-quality tape measure, a pen, and paper.
Take the width of the opening: Measure the distance between the wall upon which the screen is to be mounted. Because walls can be slightly uneven, take it at the middle, top, and bottom. Take the smallest measurement.
Take the height measurement: Measure the height of the bath lip or shower base from the desired shower screen height. Standard heights are generally around 1800 mm-2000 mm, but you can adjust this according to your size and bathroom.
Consider overlap(If needed): When fitting a hinged or pivoting screen, consider how much overlap you want on the bath or shower base. This retains water. A typical overlap is between 25mm and 50mm.
Mark all the measurements clearly: Draw a rough plan of your shower space and mark the measurements on it. This will come in handy when you select your new shower screen.
Think about the screen type: The measurement method might be slightly different depending on the kind of screen you have (e.g., frameless, semi-frameless, or framed). It's always best to call the supplier or a tradesperson if in doubt.
How Do I Safely Remove an Old Shower Screen?
Last but not least, the less obvious part, which is still apparent, is removing the old screen. Safety comes first, so take it slow and get cautious.
Clear the floor around the shower screen: Remove everything that can be in the way or damaged. Place old towels or drop cloths on the floor to prevent scratching or material from falling.
Remove fixings: Inspect how the existing shower screen is secured in position. Look for screws along the frame or the hinges.
Remove any screws you can see: Remove all of the screws you can see using the right screwdriver. Place them in a safe location because you might need to reuse some of them, or it will give you an idea of the fixings utilised.
Carefully remove the screen: After cutting through the sealant, attempt to carefully shake the shower screen loose to determine if it's loose. If it remains stuck, recheck for any remaining screws or sealant.
Take down from wall and shower base: Carefully remove the old shower screen from the wall and shower base with the assistance of another person if available (particularly for large screens). Watch for weight and sharp edges.
Clean up: Once you have removed the old screen, scrub the area nicely. Remove all the residue sealant, dirt, or debris. Depending on the type of stuck-on residue, a scraper or solvent may be used.
When Should I Replace My Old Screen?
It is wonderful to know when to say goodbye to your old shower screen to save you future troubles. Understanding how to choose the perfect decorative shower screen for your bathroom is essential to ensure a seamless replacement. These are telltale signs:
Recurrent leaks: If you have previously sealed several times and water is still leaking, there could be a bowed frame or cracked glass.
Refractory mould or mildew: If mildew or mould can't be scrubbed away despite hard brushing, it might have its source in the seals or frame.
Hazy or broken glass: Hazing, cracking, or enduring cloudiness may reduce the looks and atmosphere of your bathroom.
Trendy style: When you renovate your bathroom, an antiquated shower screen can age the whole room. A switch to a newer look, like a frameless screen with a chic appearance, can be a shocking visual makeover.
Difficulty in usage: When sliding doors jam, whenever you attempt to open them, or hinged doors sag at a slant, it could be a sign of wear and tear that cannot be undone.
Safety concerns: Cracked or loose glass poses a safety hazard and should be fixed immediately.
How Do You Maintain a Shower Screen?
After installing your new sparkly shower screen, maintenance is the best way to ensure it will remain looking its best for a long time.
Glass scraper after each use: This is the one step that will do the most to prevent water spots and soap scum buildups. Store a glass scraper in your shower and get into the habit of using it after each shower.
Weekly cleaning: Clean your shower screen once a week with a mild glass cleaner or an equal mix of white vinegar and water. Use a soft sponge or cloth to wipe the glass and frame.
Remove hard water spots: Mineral deposits can appear on your shower screen if you live in an area with hard water. To eliminate such places, you can use a water and vinegar solution. For stubborn spots, you can use an over-the-counter hard water spot eliminator.
Ensure good ventilation: Good ventilation helps to dry the shower area efficiently, ruling out mildew and mould. Utilise your extractor fan when and after showering, and open a window if possible.
Which Shower Screen is Best for Small Bathrooms?
Some Sydney bathrooms may have limited space. The right shower screen can help optimise this space.
Sliding shower screens are the best for small bathrooms because they require no extra space for the door to swing open. They glide on a track and are the best for tight set-ups.
Pivot shower screens: They have only a single pivoting door that pivots in or out. They suit very narrow spaces, but you must ensure adequate clearance for the door to swing out without coming into contact with anything.
Bi-fold shower screens: They fold inwards and take up very little space when open. They are a fair compromise between a hinged door and a sliding screen.
Walk-in shower panels: If your small bathroom is slightly more extensive, you can install a minimalist walk-in shower with a single glass panel. This can give the room a more open feel and less crowded.
Frameless shower screens: Either way, frameless screens can give a small bathroom a more significant and fresher feel since they lack frames. The lack of cumbersome frames creates a cleaner look.
Conclusion
Replacing an ageing shower screen will seem like a scary job initially, but by doing the above, it's easy to do this DIY job and give your bathroom a new lease of life. Don't forget to measure correctly, treat with care when removing, and choose a new screen suitable for your requirements and bathroom. Consider opting for strengthened glass for added durability and safety. Properly installed and maintained, your new shower screen won't just have a lovely appearance. Still, it will also function perfectly for years, keeping pesky water splashes out. Call the experts for a hassle-free bathroom glass shower screen installation experience if you are unsure.
