How to Choose the Right Frameless Shower Enclosure
Why Frameless Showers Are Worth the Investment
Frameless shower enclosures have become one of the most popular bathroom upgrades — and for good reason. They make bathrooms look larger, let in more light, are easier to clean than framed enclosures, and significantly increase your home's value.
Unlike framed showers that use aluminum channels to hold thinner glass, frameless enclosures use thick tempered glass (3/8" to 1/2") that's strong enough to stand on its own with minimal hardware.
Choosing Your Glass Thickness
The two standard options for frameless showers are:
3/8" (10mm) Tempered Glass
- •More affordable option
- •Slightly lighter weight
- •Works well for most standard configurations
- •Good choice for budget-conscious projects
1/2" (12mm) Tempered Glass
- •Premium feel and appearance
- •More substantial and rigid
- •Better for larger panels and door configurations
- •Our recommendation for most custom installations
Starphire (Ultra-Clear) Glass
Standard glass has a slight green tint (visible at the edges). Starphire glass is ultra-clear with no green cast — perfect if you have light-colored tile or want to showcase your shower design without any color distortion.
Hardware Finishes
Your hardware finish ties the shower enclosure to your bathroom's overall design:
- •Chrome — Classic, bright, goes with everything
- •Brushed Nickel — Warm, matte finish. Our most popular choice
- •Matte Black — Modern, dramatic. Trending heavily in 2025-2026
- •Gold/Brass — Luxurious, perfect for high-end designs
- •Oil-Rubbed Bronze — Traditional, pairs well with darker fixtures
Pro tip: Match your shower hardware to your bathroom faucets and fixtures for a cohesive look.
Common Configurations
Inline (Most Common)
A fixed panel and a swing door in a straight line. Perfect for alcove showers or tub-to-shower conversions.
90-Degree (Corner)
Two glass panels meeting at a 90-degree corner, with one panel serving as the door. Ideal for corner shower bases.
Neo-Angle
Three glass panels forming a corner entry — typically for a diamond-shaped shower base.
Fixed Panel Only
A single piece of glass (also called a "splash guard") attached to a half-wall or the end of a tub. The most affordable frameless option.
Sliding/Barn Door
A frameless glass panel on a barn door-style track. Modern and space-saving.
The Installation Process
Here's what to expect when you order a frameless shower from Vision Glass:
1. Free In-Home Measurement — We come to your home, measure the exact dimensions, discuss glass and hardware options, and provide a quote on the spot.
2. Template & Order — Once approved, we create precise templates and order your glass and hardware. Lead time: 7-14 business days.
3. Installation Day — Our installers arrive with your custom glass, drill mounting holes (if needed), and install the complete enclosure. Most installations take 2-4 hours.
4. Silicone & Cure — We apply silicone sealant at all glass-to-tile and glass-to-glass joints. The silicone needs 24 hours to fully cure before use.
What Does a Frameless Shower Cost?
Pricing varies by configuration, glass thickness, and hardware:
- •Fixed panel only: $400-$800
- •Basic inline (panel + door): $1,000-$1,800
- •90-degree corner: $1,500-$2,500
- •Large custom enclosure: $2,000-$4,000+
These prices include measurement, fabrication, hardware, installation, and silicone.
Ready to Transform Your Bathroom?
Vision Glass Company installs custom frameless shower enclosures throughout Central Florida — Lakeland, Tampa, Orlando, Winter Haven, and beyond. Every shower is custom-measured, precision-cut, and professionally installed by our expert team.
Schedule a free in-home consultation: Request a Quote or call (863) 913-6246.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Get a free quote from Vision Glass Company — Central Florida's trusted glazing experts.