How to Install a Shower door

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Woodie's DIY will show you how to install a shower door. This is an easy way to transform the look of your bathroom.

How to do it

Step 1

Measure the base of the shower and buy a door to fit the existing shower tray. In this case we are installing a corner entry shower door. There are generally two standard sizes of shower tray – 760mm and 800mm.

Step 2

Assemble the components of the shower door frame according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 3

Sit the assembled frame on to the shower tray. Mark with a pencil where the track should go. This will act as a guide for the U channel.

Step 4

Once the position is marked remove the shower frame.

Step 5

Then place the U channel in line with the mark. Using a spirit level to ensure it is vertically level. Mark the drill holes for the U channel on to the wall.

Step 6

Run a multi-purpose detector over where you will be drilling to ensure there are no hazards behind the wall.

Be extra thorough when looking for pipes and cables, as there are a lot of pipes and cables behind the walls in a bathroom.

Step 7

Put masking tape on your markings and drill holes using a tile drill bit. The tile drill bit has a special tip for precision drilling into tile. Remember safety first – always wear safety goggles when drilling.

Let the drill do the work. Hold the drill perpendicular to the tile and apply a bit of pressure. Go slow until you break the surface of the tile. Once you are through the surface you can increase the speed of the drill.

Step 8

Insert suitable rawl plugs into the hole, ideally past the depth of the tile.

Step 9

Run a bead of sealant at the back of the U channel and secure it into place by inserting the screws.

Step 10

Repeat on the other side.

Step 11

Offer up the frame against the wall and slot it into the U channels and ensure the frame is level.

Step 12

Then drill pilot holes through the guide holes and secure it in place with screws.

Step 13

Fit the door to the frame as per manufacturer’s instructions. Read instructions carefully to determine the correct method for putting on seals, hinges/rollers, or any fittings such as handles.

Step 14

Once the shower door is in place, seal with an appropriate sealant and leave for 24hrs. It would be preferable to use a Bath and Shower Sealant with Mould Resistance.