Table of Contents
- Why does this measurement matter?
- What do these terms really mean?
- What exactly are we measuring?
- Glass width chart for Ace Decor models
- How to measure it step by step
- Why leave room for seals and movement?
- Need custom sizing or help?
- Common questions answered
- Wrapping it up
- Explore more from Ace Decor
About Ace Decor: We offer quality bathroom furniture and frameless shower solutions to fit your space, your style. As part of our mission to guide customers through every step of their bathroom upgrade journey, we regularly receive detailed questions about the products we offer, many of which are insightful and practical.
Recently we had a question from one of our customers:
"On the 36” model, what is the measurement from the pivot jamb (not extended) to the strike end of glass without the seal strip on it? Also, would like to know the same for the 34” model please.”
This question points to a challenge many homeowners, installers and contractors face: knowing what the actual glass panel width is — the glass only, no seal strips or hardware that could affect fit and operation.
In this blog, we'll detail this customer's question and show how to measure accurately from the pivot jamb to the strike end on frameless shower doors — Without the seal strip. We'll also provide a measurement table for popular Ace Decor models and offer pro tips to help you achieve a perfect installation.
Why the Measurement Matters
This measurement from the edge of the pivot jamb to the edge of the glass on the strike side (and not including the seal strip):
- It ascertains whether the door fits snugly in a pre-existing hole.
- That influences whether the door swings free and easy, without hindrance.
- It adversely affects proper alignment with return panels or fixed glass.
- Incorrect measurements can lead to costly returns, delayed installations, or water leakage due to poor sealing.
When it comes to frameless shower doors, every millimeter matters.
Terminology Breakdown
Before we dig into the technicalities, a brief refresher of key terms:
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Pivot Jamb | The vertical profile that attaches the door to the wall and allows it to pivot. |
| Strike End | The side of the glass panel where the door closes or "strikes" against a seal. |
| Seal Strip | A vinyl or rubber piece installed on the strike side to help seal the door shut. |
| Glass-to-Glass Size | The measurement of the raw glass panel, not including any seal strip or hardware. |
| Nominal Size | The labeled product size (e.g., 36”) which often includes allowances for hardware. |
Which Measurements We Truly Look For?
Which means when a customer requested the "measurement from the pivot jamb to the strike end without the seal strip" they're requesting:
The raw glass width from the edge where it meets the pivot jamb, across the door, to the edge that will meet the strike jamb, with no hardware or seals attached.
This helps if you're:
- Designing a custom enclosure.
- The only part that will need replacing is the glass panel.
- Checking to ensure compatibility with your existing fixtures or side panels
Ace Decor Frameless Door Models Measurement Table
Here's the detailed measurement chart for our popular frameless swing door models, excluding the seal strip. These are true glass sizes, and do not include any attached vinyl seals or installation tolerances.
| Model Size (Nominal) | Glass Width (Pivot to Strike Edge, No Seal) | Typical Seal Strip Width (for reference) |
|---|---|---|
| 34" Frameless Door | 33-3/8" (848 mm) | ~3/8" (9.5 mm) |
| 36" Frameless Door | 35-3/8" (899 mm) | ~3/8" (9.5 mm) |
Note: These dimensions are for Ace Decor's standard frameless hinged door, wall-mount pivot configuration. Slight variations may exist on custom models or models with header kits.
How to Measure This on Your Own (Step by Step)
If you're attempting on-site verification, here's a method to measure the glass width between the pivot and strike edge.
Tools You'll Need:
- Measuring tape (metric and imperial)
- Stationary surface or mounting frame
- Safety gloves (if you are handling glass)
- A notebook or phone to record your thoughts
Step 1: Identify Pivot Jamb Side
- Rest the glass horizontally or sight it in its installed orientation.
- Determine which vertical side connects to the pivot hinges.
- This is your starting point.
Step 2: Remove the Seal Strip
- Detach the seal strip if it is still affixed on its own for a time.
- If you can't take it off, subtract its thickness from your measurement (most models are ~3/8” thick).
Step 3: Measure the Raw Glass Panel
- Take the measurement direct from the hinge jamb edge to the strike edge.
- Use a stiff tape measure, and make sure you're measuring at the mid-height for the most accurate read.
Step 4: Double Check
- Double check your measurement at the top and bottom edges of the panel to confirm the glass is square.
- Then average any small variance for your final working width.
Installation Tip: Make Space for Seals & Movement
Despite using only raw glass measurements, keep in mind:
- You will also require space for seals or magnetic strips.
- Never build your opening directly to the glass size — you should always leave 1/8″ to 3/16″ tolerance for movement, alignment, and sealing.
Go to Ace Decor for Custom Creative Help
So if you have a non-standard opening for your shower, or if you want to combine multiple panels into a custom layout, please reach out directly! Our experts will:
- Provide custom glass cut dimensions.
- Assist you in choosing compatible seals and hardware.
- For more complex configurations, provide renderings or CAD drawings.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it possible to fit a 36” door in a 36” wide opening?
Not directly. The nominal size accounts for hinges and seal strips. True 36” frameless doors require at least a 36-3/8" to 36-1/2" minimum opening.
2. What if I install the seal strip and forget to deduct the width of the inchoate?
Your door may not close tightly, or it may create too much friction with the adjoining panel or wall. Never measure glass, only measure and then adjust for seals.
3. Do sliding shower doors have different measurements?
Yes. Overlap zone, track length, and glass bypass measurements need to be taken for sliding doors. The author is addressing swing-type frameless doors with a pivot system in this piece.
Conclusion
A little detail that will go a long way is how to measure from the pivot jamb to the edge of the stop on a frameless shower door (not including a seal strip). If you're a contractor, DIY enthusiast, or design professional, it will be helpful for you to know about this measurement so you can achieve a proper fit, a clean look, and smooth operation.
At Ace Decor, we're not just about trendy, contemporary shower solutions—we're about technical support you can count on. If you need further assistance, reach out to our team, or check our full selection of frameless shower doors.
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