Confused by Shower Terminology? Here’s What It All Means

Starting your shower journey can feel a bit overwhelming but don’t worry, we’re here to keep things simple and stress free.

While you’ll probably be a pro by the time everything’s installed, we get that all the terminology at the beginning can be confusing. Our team is here to guide you through the process, using our experience in bespoke shower solutions to explain your options clearly and simply.

This quick guide is designed to help you get to grips with the basics: 

What Is a Bespoke Shower?

A bespoke shower is custom made just for you. It's perfect for tricky spaces or when you want something unique. Instead of picking an off-the-shelf enclosure, you choose the size, shape, and materials and we make it to fit your space perfectly.

What’s the Difference Between a Walk-In Shower and a Shower Enclosure?

It’s all about the door!

• A shower enclosure has a door that closes you in.

• A walk-in shower is open, with no door to step through (you can also opt for a 'flipper panel' to catch the shower splashes)

What is a Flipper Panel?

A flipper panel is a small hinged panel attached to the edge of your fixed screen - like a mini door that adds flexibility without fully enclosing the space.

What is a Side Panel?

A side panel is basically another name for a shower panel or return panel. It’s one of the parts that make up walk-in showers, shower enclosures, or shower cubicles. These panels form the side of the shower area and come in different sizes, which is great if you’re planning a bespoke shower setup.

What is a Bi-Fold Shower?

A Bi-Fold Shower is a great space saving option, with a two panel door that folds in the middle to open.

What Do You Mean by 'Finish'?

The finish is the colour and texture of the shower hardware, like the u-channel or fittings -  Choosing the one that best matches your bathroom style.

These are available in a range of finishes: Chrome, Polished Nickel, Brushed Nickel, Polished Brass, Satin Brass, Antique Brass, Polished Copper, Antique Brushed Copper, Brushed Bronze and Matt Black.

What Is Shower Hardware?

Hardware is all the smaller parts that hold your shower together. Think:

• Channels that hold glass

• Wall brackets and hinges

• Seals, end caps, and support bars

What’s a Support Bar?

It’s exactly what it sounds like! A support bar helps hold your shower screen or enclosure steady and secure. These are attached to the glass panel and then secured to either the wall or the ceiling, depending on what works best for your shower design.

What Does ‘Hinged to the Wall’ Mean?

This just means the shower door is attached directly to the wall with hinges, The door swings open from that fixed point on the wall.

What Does ‘Hinged to Inline Panel’ Mean?

Also referred to as 'glass to glass'; the shower door is hinged to a fixed glass panel (called an inline panel) instead of the wall. The width of this panel, plus the door, makes up the total width of that side of the enclosure.