7 COMMON DIY SHOWER SCREEN INSTALLATION MISTAKES...
- Melbourne Shower Screens Online
- Aug 27
- 4 min read
......(and How to Avoid Them)
Installing a shower screen yourself is a rewarding way to save money and add a personal touch to your bathroom renovation. With a bit of planning and care, you can achieve a professional-looking result. From creating watertight seals to carefully handling the glass panels, the process allows you to take control of your project and gain valuable DIY skills along the way.
The team at Melbourne Shower Screens Online have you covered! We’ve rounded up seven of the most common DIY shower screen installation mistakes people make and how you can avoid them.
1. Misjudging the Shower Screen Size or Direction
The problem:
Picture this. You’ve measured your shower area and picked a sleek shower screen, only to find out it doesn’t fit quite right or opens in the wrong direction. Even a few millimetres off can be a huge headache!
How to avoid it:
Double-check your measurements and write them down with millimetre precision.
Consider the layout of your bathroom and the direction the shower screen will open. Will it hit the toilet or vanity? Remember Australian law stipulates that shower screen doors must swing outward (at least)
in case of an emergency, you can gain access to the person inside the shower.
Most suppliers offer customisable options if you’re working around tight spaces.
2. Not Sealing Properly (Hello, Leaks)
The problem:
Poor sealing is one of the main culprits behind leaks. Rushing through this step can leave you with puddles of water pooling outside your shower every time you shower.
How to avoid it:
Use silicone sealant to create a tight, waterproof seal where the shower screen meets the wall and floor. Be sure to:
Choose high-quality, water-resistant silicone designed for bathrooms.
Apply it evenly, ensuring there are no gaps or air bubbles.
Allow enough drying time before using the shower.
3. Using Low-Quality Silicone or Tools on Your Shower Screen Installation
The problem:
Cheap tools or bargain-bin silicone might save you a few dollars upfront, but it won’t last. Poor-quality silicone can discolour, shrink, or peel over time, leaving your shower prone to leaks.
How to avoid it:
Invest in professional-grade silicone that’s mould-resistant and long-lasting.
Ensure you have the right tools, including a quality sealant applicator gun, spirit level, and the necessary drill bits for your tiles.
A little extra investment upfront can save you from expensive repairs later.
4. Forgetting to Account for Floor Drainage Slopes
The problem:
Bathrooms are designed with a slight slope in the floor to direct water towards the drain. If you don’t account for this slope, your shower screen could end up sitting unevenly or leaking water.
How to avoid it:
Pay close attention to the slope of your bathroom floor during the planning phase.
Most shower screens are adjustable enough to accommodate sloped floors. Make sure to clearly communicate this with your screen supplier or read the product specifications carefully.
5. Ignoring Wall Out-of-Plumb Issues
The problem:
Walls in your bathroom might not be perfectly vertical (a common issue in older homes). If you install your shower screen without accounting for this, you could face awkward gaps or alignment issues.
How to avoid it:
Use a spirit level to check your walls for plumb (aka straightness).
Many modern shower screens come with adjustable wall channels that can help you compensate for minor irregularities.
If your walls are significantly out of plumb, it might be worth consulting a professional to avoid long-term issues.
6. Improper Anchoring Into Tiles
The problem:
Tiles add a stunning finish to your bathroom, but drilling into them without care could lead to cracks or a poorly anchored shower screen. Not only does this look bad, but it’s also a safety risk.
How to avoid it:
Use the correct drill bits for tiles (diamond-tipped is best for porcelain or ceramic).
Mark your anchor points carefully and drill slowly to avoid cracking the tiles.
Insert wall plugs securely before attaching the shower screen frame.
7. Glass Handling Safety Concerns
The problem:
Glass shower screens are large, heavy, and fragile. Mishandling them during installation can lead to accidents or damage to the screen. Nobody wants to deal with broken glass!
How to avoid it:
Always have someone to help you move and hold the glass panels during installation.
Wear safety gloves and footwear to protect yourself.
Handle the glass upright (never flat), and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
If you’re not confident handling large glass panels, this is a good time to call in a professional.
When to Call in the Pros
DIY projects can be exciting and rewarding, and installing a shower screen is no exception! It’s a task that calls for attention to detail, precision, and the right tools. If you ever feel unsure or want added peace of mind, bringing in a skilled professional is a great choice. They’ll ensure the job is completed safely, efficiently, and with a flawless, watertight finish.
Choosing expert help can also save you time and effort, while ensuring everything is done perfectly the first time. Sometimes, the best part of a DIY is knowing when to call in the pros!
Your Bathroom Deserves Better
Doing a DIY shower screen installation isn’t impossible, but it does demand careful execution and attention to detail. By learning from these common mistakes and following the expert tips above, you can increase your chances of getting it right the first time.
Still worried about the tricky parts? Don’t sweat it. [Professional shower screen installation services in Melbourne] (or insert relevant local page link) are just a call away. After all, your dream bathroom deserves nothing less than perfection. Happy installing!
Happy Renovating
If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact the team at Melbourne Shower Screens Online.
We're always happy to help.
Melbourne Shower Screens Online
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