Eddie Basset from Delta Glass Showers shares his thoughts:

When choosing your glass contractor, reputation is always a good start. A satisfied referral from a friend, family member or contractor/tile company is usually a safe choice. If you don’t have that option, make up a list of important questions and concerns.

Examples : Do you have a show room or web photo gallery of shower enclosures installed by the contacted company? What is the estimated lead time for installation? This should never be more than seven days from day of final measure. Ask them how they plan the construction of all components, glass as well as hardware. All glass companies do not use the same techniques and you may not agree with some types of connectors each uses.

If you don’t ask, you may end up with something other than what you are expecting. Some will recommend costly unneccessary parts, and some will cut corners.

BE CAUTIOUS!

At least two quotes of similar construction and cost would be a smart way to shop.

Always inquire about warranties on both workmanship and hardware. They should be well into the future.

Hardware info: Shower hardware finishes are typically pretty close between many of the bath fixture companies your glass contractor will use. But keep in mind these companies are not related and the more exotic the finish you choose, the more of a chance that the shades will vary slightly. It is wise to ask for samples if you are unsure.

Glass info: All glass in any shower areas are required by law to be heat tempered for safety issues and you can identify tempered glass by a small logo close to one of the four corners. All heavy shower glass should have a high machine polish on all edges. Glass should fit snugly around all notches and glass-to-marble/tile joints. Sometimes, additional support bars are required when using larger free standing panels of glass, for your safety’s sake.

Care and cleaning: There are a number of different glass patterns and textures to choose from, but keep in mind these patterns may distort the look you’ve created when you picked your tile/marble. Care and cleaning of your shower require little attention.

But to keep that new look for years to come, use these tips. Keep a small squegee on hand to use after showering. Rain X type products or grocery store versions of shower glass cleaners work well. The typical white stains we’ve all experienced on shower glass is mainly caused from the amount of calcium in your city’s water, also referred to as soft andhard water.

The amount of calcium varies widely from city to city. The more calcium, the more attention that is required. Some calcium may be filtered with special shower heads that are becoming more widely available in stores.

Keep these suggestions in mind when choosing your shower and installation experts, and you’ll be enjoying a timeless, classic frameless shower that you can be proud of.