Walk-in shower enclosures have become a hallmark of modern bathroom design. They offer a sleek, minimalist, and practical alternative to bathtubs. Making the most of available space, these are a fabulous complement to today's bathrooms. Rather than having an enclosure with a door that swings, you can simply install a door-less walk-in enclosure. The no-door or minimal door design not only bring space-saving benefits but also adds a touch of luxury and chic appeal to your entire bathroom. Trendy and minimalistic walk-in units are made of toughened safety glass that lends opulence and a feel of luxury showering.
Whether you want to renovate a small ensuite or are looking to design a luxury bathroom, walk-in enclosures are a stylish choice. In this guide, we will go through all you need to know about walk-in enclosures, their benefits, types of installations and the latest trends in the UK market. By the end, you'll be ready to decide on your bathroom upgrade.
What are Walk-in Shower Enclosures
A shower enclosure is a showering area enclosed in a manner that separates it from the rest of the bathroom. Walk-in shower Enclosures are perfect for both small and large bathrooms. They come in many sizes and configurations to suit your bathroom layout. Their open, usually doorless design creates an illusion of more space in small bathrooms, giving them a fancy look. In larger bathrooms, they create a spa-like feel, which is quite amazing.
For smaller bathrooms, the absence of a shower tray and door makes the floor space and room feel larger. They can also be built inside smaller bathrooms. Most enclosures below can adapt well to almost any setting with various colours, sizes, configurations and installations. These come with many features that support showering routines, which are quick and refreshing even for those with low mobility. Many come with non-slip surfaces, allowing easy access and a more open feel, leak-proof, waterproof, and glass panel construction for style and durability.
Easy Access
For those with mobility issues, walk-in showers are a game changer. With no steps or high trays to navigate, they are a safe and accessible showering solution. They are popular with elderly or disabled users. They are also practical for households with young children as they eliminate the need to lift children over the side of the bath.
Easy to Clean
With fewer corners, walk-in showers are easier to clean than traditional enclosures. The frameless design, in particular, reduces the build-up of grime and lime scale, making maintenance easier, and can be a boon, especially in areas with hard water. Modern glass panels come with anti-limescale coatings, which further reduce the need for frequent cleaning, keeping your enclosure sparkling new for years.
Customisation Options
From glass types to frame finishes and tray setups, walk-in enclosures offer many opportunities for customisation. Whether you like a wet room or a raised tray, there's a design to suit every taste and bathroom layout. Some walk-in showers include built-in seating for comfort. You also have the choice of one or multiple glass panels to enclose the shower area and also the use of integrated towel rail or even lighting for getting a better ambience.
Types of Walk-in Shower Enclosures
Frameless vs Framed
Frameless walk-in enclosures are popular for their sleek, minimalist design. They use toughened safety glass and fewer metal parts, creating a seamless look. The elegant, frameless designer models come with the promise of elevated design and a sense of luxury. Frameless enclosures are more popular in modern bathrooms, where the focus is on clean lines and open spaces.
Framed designs are more affordable and provide extra support. The frame, which is usually steel or aluminium, adds extra stability to the structure and protects against damage specially at the panel edges. Polished with a coating of chrome, brushed nickel or matte black, the metal is made to resist rust and wear, even in high-moisture environments. They are more traditional but can still look stylish and functional in a bathroom with a more classic look. Then, there are partially framed or semi-frameless models that have one edge that is partially framed.
Stainless Steel or Corrosion-Resistant Fittings
Both framed and frameless shower enclosures can include handles and hinges. For long-term value, you need to add good quality hardware, special fixtures such as steam and sound insulation, and the level of privacy you need. Handles and hinges come in many types from simple to stylish, covered in many finishes to achieve the look you desire. With the humidity in bathrooms, you need to choose fittings made from stainless steel or corrosion-resistant materials. These ensure durability even in the toughest conditions.
Glass
Commonly used glass for enclosures ranges between 6mm to 10mm. High-quality toughened safety glass can also protect against the onslaught of power showers, minor bumps, and impact. It's essential to consider glass that comes with an easy-clean protective coating. The type of glass you choose also makes a big difference to the look and functionality of your shower enclosure. The glass can be clear, frosted, tinted, or mirrored.
- Clear Glass: Has a modern look, giving the illusion of a bigger space.
- Frosted Glass: Offers privacy but still allows light to pass through.
- Tinted Glass: Reduces glare and heat and hides water spots while providing privacy.
- Patterned Glass: Offers greater privacy and presents a decorative feature.
- Mirrored Glass: Offers privacy while creating an opulent, mirrored aesthetic.
Each type of glass has its benefits, and it's all about your personal preference and the style of your bathroom.
Toughened Glass
Toughened glass breaks into small blunt pieces, reducing injury risk. All glass used in shower enclosures must comply with UK safety standards (EN12150).
Anti-Limescale Coatings
The enclosure glass may be marked with lime-scale leftover and soap marks. To safeguard against limescale, your panels you can either have the anti-limescale coating included when you place your order. In areas with hard water in the UK, anti-limescale coatings are a must. These coatings prevent limescale build-up, keeping your shower enclosure looking great for longer.
With or Without Tray
Walk-in showers can be installed with a raised tray or as part of a wet room. Trays are easier to fit and provide a defined showering area. Wet rooms are fully open and seamless. Trays come in many materials, including acrylic, stone resin and ceramic. Each has its benefits; acrylic is lightweight and easy to fit, while stone resin feels luxurious.
Installation Considerations
Tiled Floors vs Shower Trays
The right shower tray or floor can help build a solid and long-lasting base for shower enclosures. Walk-in showers can be installed on tiled floors or with a shower tray. Tiled floors are ideal for wet room setups, while shower trays are easier to install and better for drainage.
Professional vs DIY Installation
Some homeowners may opt for DIY installation, but hiring a professional is always the best choice. Professionals ensure proper waterproofing and drainage, which is crucial in UK homes, especially wooden floors.
Waterproofing and Drainage
Proper waterproofing and drainage is key to prevent leaks and water damage. This is especially important in wet room setups where the whole floor needs to be waterproofed.
Cost and Value
Price Ranges
Walk-in shower enclosures are available from cost-effective to luxurious varieties. On average, you can expect to pay between £240 and £2,000 depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the installation.
Long-Term Value
Installing it can increase your home's appeal and resale value. Their modern design and accessibility make them desirable features for potential buyers.
Energy Efficiency
The walk-in set-up allows the use of multiple fittings and fixtures so as to co-ordinate well with the overall bathroom aesthetic. Water conservation is central to all eco-friendly bathroom innovations that aim to offer the same functionality using limited water quantities. Pair your walk-in shower with a water and energy efficient shower head to make your bathroom more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run.
UK Trends
There are several trends in the UK market for walk-in enclosures. In addition to our online store, you can also see the Collection at QS Supplies to learn more about the latest trends.
Black Frame and Matt Black Fittings
Standard finishes that prevailed in the market were Silver or Chrome but modern innovative ideas have led to use of bolder colours such as Black. A black shower enclosure allows you to make an impression without trying too hard. Black-framed enclosures and matt black fittings are the trend in the UK, looking bold and modern. They're different, much sleeker than standard styles, and are quick to catch the eye.
Crittall-Style Shower Screens
Inspired by industrial design, Crittall-style walk-in shower screens have black metal frames and are perfect for adding a bit of urban cool to your bathroom. Crittall-style screens are characterised by slim metal frame and large glass panels that allow open, airy feel. The frames are metal while the glass panels can be customised.
These shower screens are stylish and an excellent fit for smaller or dim bathrooms as they allow a lot of natural light into the space.
Why Buy From Us / Brand Values?
When choosing a walk-in shower enclosure, you must choose a trustworthy supplier. Here's why you should choose us:
- Quality Guarantee: Our products meet the highest UK standards for safety and durability.
- Nationwide Delivery: Fast and reliable delivery across the UK.
- Range of Styles in Stock: From Curved walk-ins to Corner and Frameless models, we have a wide choice to suit every style.
- Friendly UK-Based Team: After-sales support from our UK-based experts.
Browse our walk-in shower enclosures today and find your perfect fit. Our Collection is stylish, practical, and accessible. With modern design, customisation options, and long-term value, it's an investment worth considering. Whether renovating a small en-suite or creating a luxurious wet room, these glass enclosures transform your space into a haven of relaxation and style.
Ready to get started? Contact our UK-based team for free advice, or order now for fast UK-wide delivery and transform your bathroom today.