Sliding shower doors are indeed a boon for your bathroom if you are looking for functionalities and modern beauty. Unlike traditional shower doors, they do not necessitate extra space to swing open, thus maximizing space use. They create a cool modern touch, prevent water from spilling out, and keep your bathroom free of mess. But the main reason they're so popular these days is that installing them is super easy. You can even do it yourself even without any professional assistance.
Trust mes, it’s simpler than what you might imagine. This article will guide you on how to fit and install sliding shower doors in your bathroom in 8 easy steps! Ready to turn your shower room into something awesome? Read on!
Essential Tools and Materials You Will Need
Before you start, first make sure that you have the following tools and materials ready.
- Sliding Shower Door Kit: A typical kit has all the important shower door parts such as door panels, tracks, and hardware.
- Level: To ensure that tracks and doors are aligned correctly.
- Screwdriver: To tighten screws in the glass frame.
- Pencil: For marking measurements on the shower door frame and to write measurements on paper.
- Measuring Tape: A must-have tool to measure the dimensions of your shower space.
- Paper: For writing measurements of your glass door.
- Drill: For drilling holes in the walls or shower frame.
- Silicon Sealant: To seal edges to prevent water leakage.
- Safety Glasses and Gloves: For safety during the installation process.
8 Steps for Installation Process
Here are the detailed and easy-to-understand instructions on how to fit a sliding shower door in your shower space.
Step 1: Measure Your Shower Space
After you have all the required items arranged, it is time to take measurements. Measure the distance between walls (width) and the length from the base to the top of the opening (height). Double-check your measurement and note it down on a piece of paper.
You should keep the length of the track a 1/4” less than the actual distance between each wall. This space is to allow extra room for the hardware. In the table below, we have compiled the standard dimensions of different types of sliding glass doors. Have a look:
| Standard Two-Panel Sliding Glass Door | Standard Three-Panel Sliding Glass Door | Standard Four-Panel Sliding Glass Door |
|---|---|---|
| 60" x 80" | 108" x 80" | 144" x 80" |
| 72" x 80" | 144" x 80" | 192" x 80" |
| 96" x 80" | 144" x 96" | 192" x 96" |
Step 2: Prepare the Shower Area
Next, clean your shower area thoroughly. Remove the soap scum and water residue. If you’re replacing an existing door then ensure that it is properly removed and the surface is free from debris. A clean tidy surface will allow adhesives and sealants to bond strongly.
Step 3: Install the Bottom Track
Now it’s time to install the bottom track at the base of your shower space. Position the track on a suitable spot. If necessary, trim it to fit your shower width. Once you have placed the bottom track, mark the drilling points on it. Then grab your drill machine and bore holes at the marked points. At last, secure your track with adhesives (silicone sealant is suggested) and screws (provided in the kit).
Step 4: Install the Side Frames
When the bottom track is done, pick up the side frames. Keep in mind that side frames will hold your sliding door in place, so make sure you align them precisely. To install them:
- Align the side frames vertically with shower walls.
- Mark the drilling points and ensure they are accurately leveled.
- Drill the holes and insert wall anchors.
- At last, attach the side frames using screws.
Step 5: Attach the Top Track
Next, you have to place the top track over the side frames of your shower door. First measure and cut the top track to fit the width of your shower opening. Then position it over the side frames and attach it with screws.
Your sliding door frame is now complete, with the bottom track, side frames, and top track in place.
Step 6: Install the Sliding Door Panels
Now, as you have completed the frame, fix the glass panels.
- Insert the rollers onto the top of the glass panels
- Then carefully lift the glass panel and set it on the bottom track
- Secure the rollers onto the top track so that they glide smoothly
- Finally adjust the rollers to affirm even movement
Now, test the door by sliding it back and forth multiple times. If the door is not gliding smoothly, make further adjustments until it glides freely.
Step 7: Secure and Seal
Your slide shower door project is nearly finished! But before you use this, don’t forget to:
- Check for loose screws and brackets and ensure everything is tightened and secure.
- For the edges of your frame, apply a thin bead of sealant to stop leakage.
- Clean up any excess sealant with a damp cloth.
- Let the sealant stand for about 6 hours. We personally suggest you to wait 24 hours for it to dry completely.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
Finally, your sliding shower door is ready to use. To clean dust and fingerprints, use a glass cleaner spray and wipe down your new door. Lastly, make sure the door handles and locks are fixed and well-anchored.
Now step back and admire your work. Congratulations! Your sleek new door is ready to glow up your bathroom.
3 Key Hacks for a Perfect Installation
1. Check Your Leveling Carefully
An uneven installation can result in misalignment and sticking problems. So it’s essential that you use a high-quality level while aligning frames. Double-check the alignment both horizontally and vertically to avoid any future operational issues.
2. Use High-Quality Sealant
For a durable, waterproof finish around your shower door, choose a premium quality silicone sealant. Apply a thin layer of it along the edges of the frame. Pay extra attention to corners and joints. This will prevent water leaks and mold growth in your shower room.
3. Lubricate the Rollers for Smooth Sliding
For a smooth operation, slightly lubricate the rollers in your shower door with a silicone-based lubricant. Avoid oil-based lubricants as they attract dirt and grime.
Elevate Your Bathroom with a Premium Sliding Glass Door from Ace Décor!
Looking for sliding glass shower doors of premium quality? Ace Décor is the only place to look! Whether you need top-quality bathtubs, shower doors, toilets, or mirrors, we have skillfully designed bathroom furniture for you. Along with exclusive deals and discounts, we provide you with bathroom aesthetic products at the most affordable prices. Our collection has a variety of products, including the 36x36-inch acrylic shower base pan, 48/60"x74" frameless double sliding shower door, 59" solid surface soaking bathtub with an ultra-thin 12mm edge, and many more!
So why wait any longer? Visit our website Ace Décor and make your first order today. Get ready to bring style and function to your bathroom.
FAQs
Q1: How to fit a sliding shower door, when my bathroom’s walls are uneven?
To address this, use shims to align the door frame properly. Shims can be inserted between the wall and track to create a more even surface. If your walls are severely uneven, then apply plaster to smooth out the area.
Q2: Do you offer free shipment?
Yes! We provide free shipping in most of the mainland. Free shipping is available to the lower 48 states.
