How to Determine the Best Length for Your Shower Screen Panel

When designing a walk-in shower, one crucial element to consider is the length of your shower screen panel. Not only does it affect the aesthetics of your bathroom, but it also plays a key role in preventing water from splashing out into the rest of the bathroom. Getting the length right ensures both functionality and comfort. To find the best length for your shower screen panel, follow this step-by-step guide that includes determining the entry width and calculating the maximum size for the glass panel.

1. Start With the Minimum Entry Width

The first step in determining the best length for your shower screen is to measure the entry space. For walk-in showers, the opening needs to be wide enough for easy access. As a general rule of thumb, the entry width should be no smaller than 750mm. This measurement ensures comfortable entry and exit from the shower while allowing ample room for accessibility.

Tip: If you have a larger bathroom or want a more spacious entry, you can adjust the width accordingly, but 750mm is a good starting point for most setups.

2. Measure the Total Length of Your Shower Area

Once you've established the entry width, the next step is to measure the total length of your shower space. This includes the distance from the back of the shower wall to the open entry point where the shower screen will be installed. This measurement will give you a better understanding of how much space you have to work with and will help when it’s time to decide on the size of your shower screen.

3. Reverse Calculate the Maximum Size for Your Glass Panel

With your entry width set and the total length of your shower area measured, it’s time to calculate how large your glass panel can be. To do this, simply subtract the minimum entry width (750mm) from the total length of your shower space. The remaining distance will tell you the maximum size of the glass panel you can install.

For example, if your total shower length is 1,500mm, subtract the 750mm entry width, and you’ll be left with 750mm of remaining space. This tells you that you can install a glass panel up to 750mm wide if you want to maximize the coverage.

However, keep in mind that you don’t have to fill the entire remaining distance with glass. Many homeowners choose a shorter screen to create a more open design while still preventing water splashes.

4. Decide on Your Preferred Look and Functionality

Now that you know the maximum possible size of your shower screen, it’s time to decide how much of that space you want to fill with glass. Your decision will depend on the overall design you’re aiming for and how much water protection you need.

• Full-Length Glass Panel: If you prefer maximum water containment, go for a full-length glass panel that extends as close to the entry point as possible. This option is ideal if your bathroom has a tight layout, and you want to minimize splashes outside the shower area.

• Partial-Length Glass Panel: For a more open and spacious look, you might opt for a shorter glass panel that covers only part of the remaining distance. This allows more airflow and makes the shower feel less enclosed, which is great for larger bathrooms or those with good drainage systems.

5. Consider Practical Factors

Beyond aesthetics, it’s important to think about practical factors like cleaning and maintenance. A longer shower screen may provide more protection from water splashes, but it can also mean more glass to clean. If ease of maintenance is a priority for you, choosing a shorter screen might be the better option.

Additionally, ensure the glass you select is tempered safety glass and meets local building standards for strength and durability.

Determining the best length for your shower screen panel is a balance between functionality, design, and comfort. By starting with a minimum entry width of 750mm, measuring the total shower area, and reverse calculating the available space, you can easily figure out the maximum size for your glass panel. Whether you opt for a full-length or partial-length screen, following this method ensures you make an informed decision that fits your space and needs.

Happy Renovating!

- Corey & Kim