A steam shower door needs to be able to hold steam inside the area effectively, which is why there is an entire category for this type of door. The main requirement of steam shower doors is that they seal shut well enough to contain the steam; so as long as a door does this task efficiently, the design is up to the homeowner. One of the most popular types of steam shower doors is the sliding kind, which is known for not taking up much room. Another common type is the familiar swinging door, which often looks just like a standard door, but with a particularly tight seal. Finally, homeowners can choose between framed and frameless doors for their steam shower.
Sliding doors are typically ideal for smaller rooms that do not have enough space for a door to swing open. This type of door is known for being quite easy to clean, which is good because the downside of a sliding door is that it usually becomes hard to open and close if it is not kept clean. Additionally, the rollers may need to be replaced occasionally to ensure that it continues to work properly. In general, keeping the rollers in good shape and the track free of dirt and debris should ensure that it slides open and shut smoothly.
When space in the bathroom is abundant, steam shower doors that swing are often preferred. This is especially true for owners who do not want to worry about cleaning the door regularly for it to work properly. Most homeowners are also familiar with the typical swinging door, and it will likely match the rest of the doors in the house, as well. Of course, it is important to always keep the area around it clear so that the door is not damaged by hitting items as it swings open. Otherwise, swinging steam shower doors are often low maintenance and easy to use.
Whether a swinging door or a sliding door is chosen, homeowners also have the choice of steam shower doors with or without a frame. This is just an aesthetic consideration, as the door typically works the same with or without it. Frames are typically aluminum, and provide an outline around the glass, with the handle built into the frame. On the other hand, frameless steam shower doors are typically all glass, offering a clean look, with the handle built right into the glass. These steam shower doors are usually made of a thicker glass than the framed types in order to remain durable.