Frameless vs Semi-Frameless
Frameless vs. Semi-Frameless Shower Screens: Which One is Right for You?
When it comes to your bathroom, choosing between frameless and semi-frameless shower screens is a big decision. Both offer a modern and stylish look, but there are key differences in cost, design and functionality. Whether you're after a sleek, ultra-modern feel or a balance between aesthetics and practicality, this guide will hopefully help you make an informed choice.
Semi-Frameless Shower Screens: A Cost Friendly Choice
Semi-frameless shower screens offer a balance of affordability and style. They feature a modern frame around the perimeter with exposed polished glass edges. The frame is available in a variety of colours to suit different bathroom aesthetics, including Gold, Matt Gold, Silver, Matt Silver, Brushed Nickel, Black, White, and Gun Metal.
Why Choose Semi-Frameless?
✅ More Affordable – Semi-frameless screens are generally cheaper than fully frameless, making them an attractive option for homeowners wanting a modern look without the premium price tag.
✅ Thinner Glass – Semi-frameless shower screens have slightly thinner glass than fully frameless, making the doors lighter and easier to use, especially for kids and elderly.
✅ Better Water Retention – Semi-frameless screens can offer improved water containment, especially when combined with an overlapping door design and a framed bottom. This helps minimize water escape compared to frameless options. However, without an overlapping door design, gaps on either side of the door remain, similar to a frameless screen.
✅ More Support – The framing adds extra stability and durability.
Things to Consider
Framing – The frame is visible, giving it a bordered look similar to a framed picture. While less intrusive than a fully framed shower, it doesn’t achieve the completely seamless appearance of a frameless screen.
Cleaning – The frame and exposed edges may require more frequent cleaning as soap scum and water spots can accumulate along the edges. Regular maintenance helps keep the glass and frame looking pristine.
Frame finish options – are available (e.g., chrome, matte black, brushed nickel) to help match your bathroom aesthetic.
Bulkier Footprint – Semi-frameless shower screens have a bulkier footprint, typically requiring around 25mm of space compared to the 10mm of a frameless screen.
Frameless Shower Screens: The Luxury Look
Frameless shower screens give an unobstructed look with minimal framing around the glass. This creates an open feel that can make a bathroom appear larger and brighter.
Why Choose Frameless?
✅ A High-End Modern Look – Frameless screens provide a minimiallistic clean aesthetic.
✅ Thicker Glass – The thicker toughened glass ensures strength, compensating for the lack of a supporting frame.
✅ Easier to Clean – With no metal frames for soap scum or grime to build up, frameless shower screens are easy to clean.
✅ Maximizes Light & Space – Frameless glass gives a sense of openness, ideal for smaller bathrooms or spaces where natural light is a key design element.
Things to Consider
Higher Cost – Frameless screens are more expensive due to the thicker glass, hardware required, more complex installation, additional hole cutouts and precision required for the glass
Heavier Doors – The 10mm glass adds weight, which means doors are heavier to open and proper wall and header support is neccesary depending on configuration.
Potential for Water Escape – Frameless shower screens have minimal seals, and small gaps on either side of the door can allow water to escape. Water seals can be added, but they may take away from the seamless frameless look.
Some Maintenance Required – Frameless shower screen hinges can loosen and rubber gaskets may corrode over time. It’s a good idea to tighten the hinges or have the screen serviced occasionally to keep it in good working condition.
Which One Should You Choose?
The best choice depends on your budget, bathroom layout and design preferences.
If cost is a major factor → A semi-frameless shower is a great balance of affordability and style.
If you want a luxurious, high-end look → Frameless shower screens offer unmatched elegance.
If water containment is a priority → A semi-frameless shower with an overlapping door design is your best bet.
If you want a kid friendly option → The partial frame of a semi-frameless screen provides extra stability.
Our Suppliers
We take pride in using high-quality, Australian made glass, measured to fit your space. Our commitment to supporting local industries extends to our choice of hardware and materials.
For our semi-frameless shower screens, we use Pivotech, a trusted Australian supplier known for their high quality frames and components. Their engineered designs provide strength, style and logevity.
Final Thoughts
Both frameless and semi-frameless shower screens can transform your bathroom into a stylish and functional space. If you're unsure which option is best for your home, consulting us can help ensure you get the right fit for your needs and budget.
