If you’ve ever accidentally slammed on a shower door, you might wonder what would happen if it broke. While this is a rare occurrence for glass in shower doors, it can still be concerning. Manufacturers of shower doors prioritize user safety, and extensive research has been conducted to create reliable and safe products for the market.

Shower doors and screens are typically made of safety glass, similar to the glass used in cars and planes. Tempered glass is about four times stronger than ordinary glass, making it specifically designed for safety. It requires high impact force to break, and when broken, it shatters into small pieces instead of large, sharp shards. This design serves two main purposes: to protect people and animals near the glass and to facilitate easy cleanup in case of breakage.

During the manufacturing process, the glass undergoes rapid heating and cooling to become safety glass. This process strengthens the glass and improves its safety characteristics. Although the corners and edges may still be relatively fragile, the overall glass structure is significantly tougher. Additionally, the change in glass nature due to the heating and cooling process alters its behavior when broken, minimizing the risk of severe injuries.

Glass Thickness

Glass and shower screens can be made from glass of various thicknesses, depending on the design and installation type. For frameless and semi-framed shower enclosures, thick glass, also known as “heavy glass,” is commonly used. Thinner glass is suitable for framed designs, as the frame provides structural support and protects the delicate edges and corners of tempered glass.

Mirror Appearance

When it comes to shower glass, there are numerous styles to choose from, including different patterns and textures. While ordinary clear glass remains popular, there are other formats available, such as:

▪Frosted glass (acid-etched)

▪Patterned glass

▪Stained glass

▪Cast glass

Privacy glass that obscures visibility is a popular choice for shared bathrooms and high-traffic toilets. It is achieved using opaque or thick finishes.

Safety Precautions for Shower Door Glass:

To ensure the safety of your shower door glass, consider the following precautions:

▪Ensure corner protectors are used during installation.

▪Avoid glass contact with hard surfaces like ceramic tile, stone, metal, or concrete.

▪Securely install all hardware.

▪Verify proper installation of all bumpers as per the instructions.

▪Avoid slamming the door and educate children about it.

▪Avoid applying excessive weight to the knob or towel bar, especially for children.

▪If the door becomes difficult to slide or drags, adjust it promptly.

▪Regularly check the door to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

By following these precautions, your glass shower door will maintain longevity, providing the same safety and security as a windshield.

Sources: http://blog.glassgang.com/types-of-glass-for-shower-doors

Sources: https://www.deltashowerdoors.com/safety-glass-shower-doors