Do you want to upgrade your old shower with new glass doors? If you're not sure where to start the planning or renovation processes, take a look at the top glass door and enclosure questions to ask right now.

What Type of Glass Shower Door Should You Choose?

There isn't one universal glass door for every shower. You can choose between full frameless enclosures, single hinged doors, sliding doors, and completely custom options. Before you select one type or style of door, consider:

• The shower or tub space . You can't add a full floor to ceiling frameless enclosure to a bathtub/shower combo. But a sliding or custom door will work with this type of setup.
• The complexity of the renovations . Do you want to completely change the bathroom space? If you plan to remove the tub and replace it with a stall or walk-in shower, you'll have more options.
• The budget . A custom-cut frameless shower enclosure typically costs more than a stock readymade slider option. Discuss your overall bathroom upgrade or home improvement budget with the glass contractor to make the best choice at the right price.

Along with the space, type of shower/tub, and your existing renovation plans, talk to the contractor about durability and lifespan issues. If you have kids who are tough on tubs or don't want to replace the enclosure/door for decades, you'll need a long-lasting option.

Should You Select a Custom of Stock Glass Door or Enclosure?

A custom-cut door or enclosure may cost more. Even though a stock door is on the less expensive end of the price spectrum, it's not always the top choice for every homeowner or home renovation project. Consider a custom-cut piece of glass if:

• The shower is an off size . If you can't fit a standard door in the space, you'll need a custom option.
• You have exact design ideas . Your dream door isn't always available from a store. Whether you want a specific shape, texture, tint, or design, a custom-cut door can give you everything you want.
• You haven't found the right door . You're weeks or months into the renovation and haven't found the just-right door. A custom option gives you choices beyond ready-made doors.

Discuss custom-cut options with a glass contractor before you decide. Ask to see photos for reference or to get a better idea of the contractor's expertise.

Should You Go with the First Quote?

Now that you have a better idea of what type of glass shower door or enclosure you want, it's time to take the next step and get a quote. If this is your first time working with a custom glass contractor or you've never replaced a shower door, you may not know if the first quote is the best deal.

While there's no rule saying you can't go with the first quote, some homeowners prefer to get a few estimates. This doesn't mean you need to get dozens of estimates from every contractor in your area. Instead, choose a few top glass professionals. Before you select or rule out a quote, consider:

• The overall job . What does the quote include? A lower quote that doesn't include accents or extra options you want may cost more before the job is complete.
• The type of labor job . Does the quote include a per hour or per job labor charge? If the estimate specifies a per hour rate, ask for a projected timeline before you sign a contract.
• The reality of the price . Does the quote seem too good to be true? A quote that's significantly lower than the rest (or the expected price) isn't always the best option. It's possible the contractor doesn't have the experience you need, uses low-quality materials, or cuts corners.

If you're not sure how to read the quote or you have concerns about the costs included, talk to the contractor. A quality glass professional will explain the charges in detail.

Are you ready to add glass to your bathroom renovation project? Contact Monterey Glass Specialists Inc. for more information.