Swinging shower doors, also known as pivot shower doors, are a stylish addition to any modern bathroom. They swing open, not slide, thanks to the hinges, which is cool if you've got a roomy shower. But over time, it wears out, or you just want a fresh look or a new shower setup. Ready to know how to remove a swinging shower door? Read this guide and you'll have it out in no time.
What You Need to Remove the Swinging Shower Door?
Before starting, gather all the necessary tools to work efficiently and safely. Check out what's on the list:
- Screwdriver, both Phillips and flathead types.
- Utility knife
- A scraper, which could be a putty knife
- If you’ve got screws that won’t budge or are rusty, use a drill.
- Silicone sealant remover
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
- An adjustable wrench
- Painter’s Tape to stick things up without a mess
- A sponge or a soft cloth
Use the right tools to get the job done without damaging your shower or surroundings.
Step 1: Get Your Work Zone Ready
Getting rid of a swingy shower door is a bit messy so you have to prep well. Make sure you put down a towel or something on the floor for the mess that can happen. If your shower has glass pieces, tape them to prevent breaking. Wear gloves and safety glasses to stay safe.
Step 2: Pull the Door off the Hinges
Most swingy shower doors stick on with hinges tightened by screws. Grab a screwdriver and go easy on taking out the screws that keep the hinges locked in. If your door is quite heavy, get some help to keep it steady while you're screwing. When you've got the screws out, gently pull the door off the hinges. Then, place it down safely somewhere.
In case your shower door has with a pivot mechanism, make sure to check the lock at both the lower and upper parts. You need to unlock these before pulling the door off its pivots.
Step 3: Remove the Door Frame (When Needed)
Some shower doors that swing open are hooked up with a metal border right on the shower's wall. Start by finding screws along the edge and removing them with a drill or screwdriver. After that, grab a utility knife to remove the sealant that's along the edge where the border sticks to the wall.
If the bond of the frame is very strong, it is possible to use a silicone sealant remover to soften the glue even further before pulling it out. After removing the frame itself, make sure any leftover adhesive or sealant residue from the wall has been cleaned off with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. This will ensure a smooth surface for any installation.
Step 4: Cleaning and Repairing the Shower Wall and Surrounding Area
After the shower door and frame have been removed, check the surrounding area to see how much damage has occurred or if there is any leftover sealant. Scrape away excess caulking and adhesive with a scraper or utility knife. First, if you want to install a new shower door, make sure that the surface is clean and dry before proceeding.
It seems that frameless designs are the most modern upgrade homeowners can make for a clean and sleek look in their bathrooms. Check out this frameless bi-fold shower door for a stylish option.
Step 5: Selecting the New Shower Door
After you've taken down your old swinging shower door, you may want an upgraded option. There are many styles to choose from when it comes to shower doors, and it is important to choose the right one for your needs. Frameless doors create a streamlined appearance and require less maintenance, which is why they are such a popular option for modern bathrooms. If you want a design that takes less space, a neo-angle shower enclosure is an excellent choice.
If you're going for a luxury touch, pivot shower doors are perfect especially if you've got a big bathroom. Framed shower doors are durable and can save you money. Just take a look at the chrome-framed pivot shower door. If you are looking for a cool style, black-framed shower doors are perfect for your bathroom.
Step 6: Installing a New Shower Door (Optional)
If you are installing a new shower door, follow the manufacturer's guide to guarantee a proper installation and longevity. Start by getting the frame or frames level, and screw in the pan. Then, attach the hinges or pivot brackets, ensuring they are all level for proper movement.
Once the support is securely in place, lift the door onto the hinges so it swings freely in and out. Because you installed a backing, you can finish it off by sealing the edges with waterproof silicone caulk to keep drips out and add some stability. When you perfectly install a shower door, it's not only functional, but long-lasting.
Tips for Staying Safe When Taking Off a Shower Door
Taking off a shower door that swings can be a DIY project, however, keep safety first:
- Wear protective gloves and safety glasses.
- Get help if the door is heavy and feels like lifting a stone or if it is just stiff to move.
- Apply painter’s tape to the glass so that if it busts, you have less clean up.
- Use oil (or something like it) if dealing with screws that won’t come out.
- Dispose of the old glass properly by following guidelines of local waste disposal.
Final Words!
Taking off a swing shower door is pretty easy if you have the right gear and if you do it with precautions. Maybe, you want something fresh and cool or just give your bathroom a glow-up. Well, this how-to guide will break it down for you, step by step. And, if you're thinking about getting a new shower door, you should check out some top-notch picks like "frameless bi-fold doors" or "pivot swing doors" to make sure your bathroom looks awesome.
