Which Is Better: Framed or Frameless Glass Tub Doors?

Aesthetics

• Those who prefer a clean, ultra-modern look might choose frameless tub or shower doors. Frameless doors feature two clear or translucent sheets of glass with handles and door hinges as the only visible metal. This setup provides the best view of decorative tiles. Standard framed doors were once available only in chrome or brass, but the selections have expanded in recent years. Still, the color and style of the frame are a factor when considering the room's décor, which is less of an issue with frameless doors.

Maintenance

• Framed shower or tub doors slide along a track eventually collecting soap scum, grime and mildew if not cleaned regularly. The roller wheels on the track may eventually need replacement. Frameless doors swing out on hinges, so there are no tracks to clean and maintain. On the other hand, the appeal of frameless doors rests with there being so much visible glass, so they need to be wiped down regularly to retain that unique aesthetic.

Bathroom Size

• Framed doors have a smaller footprint since the doors slide past each other. Small bathrooms may not have enough square footage for frameless doors to operate since the doors must have enough clearance to be able to swing out completely. Conversely, frameless doors can make a small bath seem larger since the eye can travel straight through to the back of the shower.

Cost

• Frameless doors are more expensive than framed doors for several reasons. The glass is heavier, and the edges need to be finished. Additionally, frameless doors require more substantial hardware than framed doors to handle the extra weight of the glass.

Other Considerations

• Framed doors are better able to contain water inside of the tub in a smaller bathroom, due to the structure of the frame. Frameless doors have no strip at the bottom to repel water. The shower head needs to be positioned far enough away so there is no issue with water traveling outside of the tub and shower area.