A shower door can have a surprisingly big impact on the look and functionality of your bathroom. The right glass shower door can make a small bathroom feel more open, showcase beautiful tilework, and give the space a polished, finished appearance. With so many styles available, however, choosing the right option can feel overwhelming.
From framed designs to sleek frameless doors, there are options to fit different bathroom layouts, budgets, and design preferences. Understanding the differences can help you make a confident decision for your next bathroom remodel or new construction project.

Why Choose a Glass Shower Door?
Glass shower doors offer several advantages over traditional shower curtains. Clear glass allows light to move throughout the bathroom and keeps tile, fixtures, and other design features visible. This can make the entire space feel larger and more open.
Glass shower doors can also create a more permanent, upscale appearance. Moyes Glass offers custom-made shower doors for both replacement and new construction projects, allowing homeowners to find an option that fits their particular bathroom.
Safety is another important consideration. Shower doors use tempered glass, which is significantly stronger than standard glass and is designed to break into smaller pieces rather than sharp shards if it does break.
Framed Glass Shower Doors
Framed shower doors feature durable metal framing around the glass. Because the frame provides additional structural support, these doors can use thinner glass and are often a more budget-friendly option.
Framed doors are available in a variety of styles and configurations, including sliding and pivoting options. The framing can also help contain water around the shower enclosure.
This style can be a good choice for homeowners who want a traditional bathroom design or are looking for a practical and cost-effective shower door solution. The main drawback is that the additional metal components can require more cleaning and maintenance over time.
Semi-Frameless Shower Doors
Semi-frameless shower doors offer a balance between framed and frameless designs. They incorporate some framing or metal support while maintaining a cleaner appearance than a fully framed enclosure.
This can be a great option for homeowners who want a more contemporary bathroom without the added expense or structural requirements associated with a completely frameless shower.
Because every bathroom has different dimensions and features, the best configuration will depend on the shower’s layout, surrounding walls, and available space.
Frameless Glass Shower Doors
Frameless shower doors have become increasingly popular because of their sleek, minimalist appearance. With little to no visible framing, the glass creates a more open view of the shower and allows tile and other bathroom features to take center stage.
Frameless designs can also be easier to clean because there are fewer metal frames and tracks where moisture, soap scum, and buildup can collect. They are highly customizable, which makes them particularly useful for bathrooms with unique dimensions or layouts.
However, frameless systems require thicker glass and more precise fabrication and installation. As a result, they can cost more than framed alternatives. Professional installation is especially important to ensure the enclosure fits correctly and operates properly.
Sliding vs. Swinging Shower Doors
The way your shower door opens is another important decision. Sliding doors can be particularly useful in bathrooms where space is limited because they don’t require additional clearance outside the shower.
Swinging or pivot doors, on the other hand, can provide a wider entry and a more open feel when sufficient space is available. The right choice depends on the bathroom’s layout and the location of nearby sinks, toilets, cabinets, and other fixtures.
Considering these factors before selecting a door can help ensure your new shower is both attractive and easy to use.

Choose the Right Glass for Your Bathroom
The glass itself can also influence the appearance and privacy of your shower. Clear glass is a popular choice for creating an open, modern appearance, while textured or patterned glass can provide additional privacy and visual interest.
Your glass selection should complement the rest of your bathroom. Consider how the glass will work with your tile, fixtures, hardware, and overall design.
When choosing a shower door, consider:
- Bathroom Layout: Determine how much space is available for the door and enclosure.
- Style: Choose a design that complements your bathroom’s aesthetic.
- Budget: Compare the costs and benefits of different configurations.
- Maintenance: Consider how easy each style will be to clean.
- Privacy: Decide whether clear, textured, or patterned glass best suits your needs.
- Customization: Determine whether your shower requires custom dimensions or a unique configuration.
There isn’t one shower door style that’s right for every bathroom. The best choice depends on how you use your space and the look you want to achieve.
Find the Right Shower Door with Moyes Glass
Our team at Moyes Glass specializes in custom shower doors and mirrors and can help you find a solution that fits your space and design goals. Moyes Glass is locally owned and operated and has served Northern Utah for more than 55 years.
Ready to upgrade your bathroom? Contact Moyes Glass today for a free estimate and start designing a custom glass shower door that’s right for your home.
(801) 528-9495






