Step-by-Step: How to Install a Shower Door

Shower enclosures come in all shapes and sizes and, unlike shower curtains, shower doors are durable, low maintenance and may make it easier to get out of the shower or tub. Do you have a new shower or are you looking to replace your curtain or old glass door? Learn how to install a shower door by following these step-by-step instructions.

How to Install a Shower Door

Your shower door installation will likely depend on the available space and the style of your bathroom.

Swinging Shower Door

Also called a hinged shower door, this can be framed or frameless. Unlike sliding doors, these are easier to clean and maintain. With a wider opening, they offer more mobility for those who need it. In a small bathroom, this may not be an option. A pivot shower door, attached top to bottom and anchored on one side, allows for a 180-degree swing, so you can open it in and out.

Sliding Shower Door

Also called bypass doors, these move from side to side. If you have a small bathroom, bypass doors are a good option. For convenience, you can open the door from either side and, unlike swinging doors, this type is more suitable for tubs and large showers.

To install a sliding glass door, follow these steps:

1. Make sure you have all necessary parts.
2. Measure the base opening of the enclosure and the lip of tub. The threshold will be placed on the center.
3. Mark the center point on each side of the tub.
4. Place side columns on the wall, aligning them with the center point.
5. Mark hole locations.
6. Place the threshold on the center point of the lip of the tub.
7. Mark the holes where you intend to drill, then drill all of the mounting holes.
8. Secure the threshold with screws.
9. For the side columns, use wall anchors and hammer them into the holes.
10. Place the left side column onto wall and secure it by placing screws into the correct wall anchors. Repeat this with the right column.
11. Install the crossmember.
12. Hang the doors on the track, making sure the handles do not interfere with each other.

Safety Prevention When Installing a Shower Door

Glass installation can be dangerous and difficult, especially if it’s a doing-it-yourself project. We recommend using these safety tips:

Standard or Custom Installation with Glass Doctor®

Shower door installation can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t have all of the right tools needed. At Glass Doctor, we offer the following: