Installing a new shower enclosure transforms the look of your bathroom and provides a dedicated space for your daily routine. However, the success of this installation relies entirely on one critical step: accurate measurement. An incorrectly measured shower enclosure can lead to water leaks, doors that do not close properly, and the frustration of having to return large items.
Whether you are renovating a bathroom or updating a compact en-suite, getting the dimensions right is the foundation of a watertight and durable installation. This expert guide from Asturias Bathrooms provides a clear, step-by-step process to help you measure your area with confidence, ensuring you order the correct product for your bathroom.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Before you begin, gather the necessary equipment. Precision is key, so ensure your tools are in good condition.
- Heavy-duty tape measure: A metal tape measure is essential for rigid, straight lines.
- Spirit level: This allows you to check if your walls are true (straight vertically).
- Pencil and paper: To sketch your layout and record figures immediately.
- Masking tape: Useful for marking positions on the floor without marking tiles.
- Optional: A laser measure can be helpful for larger bathrooms, but always double-check the accuracy with a tape measure.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide
1. Measure the Width
Measuring the width is rarely as simple as taking one reading. Walls in many homes, even new builds, are rarely perfectly straight.
- Three-point check: Measure the width of the opening at three different heights: the bottom (just above the tray or floor), the middle, and the top (approx. 1800mm - 2000mm up).
- Record the smallest measurement: If you are installing a shower door into a recess (between two walls), use the smallest of these three measurements. This ensures the door fits into the tightest part of the opening.
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Check for 'Out of True': Use your spirit level against the walls. If the bubble is not centred, your walls are out of true (leaning). Most quality shower profiles offer an 'adjustment range' (e.g., 20mm) to accommodate this, but severe angles may require specialist solutions.
2. Measure the Height
Check the height available from the top of the shower tray (or floor for wet rooms) to the ceiling. Standard shower enclosures range from 1850mm to 2000mm. Ensure there is sufficient clearance between the top of the enclosure and the ceiling for steam to escape. If you are tiling the enclosure area, ensure the tiling extends higher than the enclosure you intend to buy.
3. Measuring the Shower Tray
The shower tray acts as the footprint for your enclosure. If you are replacing an enclosure on an existing tray, the glass must align with the tray's perimeter.
- Dimension check: Measure the length and width of the tray to ensure accuracy. Common sizes include 800mm, 900mm, and 1200mm.
- Radius check: For quadrant shower trays, you must identify the radius. The standard radius for most modern trays is 550mm, but older models may vary.
- Waste position: Note the location of the waste pipe to ensure your new tray matches the existing plumbing configuration.
If you are starting from scratch or need to replace the base, read our Shower Tray Buying Guide to understand the materials and shapes available. Once you have your product, our guide on How to Install a Shower Tray provides detailed instructions on setting a level foundation.
4. Measuring for a Shower Door
The method for measuring a shower door depends on the configuration of your walls.
- Recess Fitting: If the shower sits between two solid walls, measure the wall-to-wall distance at the top, middle, and bottom. As mentioned, use the smallest dimension.
- Corner Fitting: If the shower is situated in a corner, measure from the tiled wall to the outer edge of the shower tray. Do this for both sides.
Important Note on Adjustment Ranges:
You will notice that product descriptions often list a size (e.g., 900mm) and an adjustment range (e.g., 860mm – 890mm). This is because the profile expands or contracts to fit your specific gap. Always ensure your measured opening falls within the adjustment range of the door you purchase.
Types of Shower Enclosures and Doors
Once you have determined your dimensions, select a style that suits your layout and usage requirements.
Pivot and Hinged Shower Doors
These doors open outwards into the bathroom.
- Hinged Shower Doors: Secured by hinges on one side, offering a wide opening.
- Pivot Shower Doors: Rotating on pins at the top and bottom, taking up slightly less external space than a hinged door.
- Best for: Larger bathrooms where the door swing will not hit basins or toilets.
Sliding Shower Doors
Sliding shower doors glide horizontally along a track, requiring no external space to open and close.
- Best for: Compact bathrooms or large enclosures where you want to maximise floor space.
- Learn more: For a deeper look at these space-saving solutions, read our Sliding Shower Doors Buying Guide.
Bifold Shower Doors
Bifold shower doors fold inwards into the shower enclosure.
- Best for: Very small bathrooms or en-suites where space is limited. They offer excellent access without encroaching on the room.
Quadrant and Offset Quadrant Enclosures
Designed for corners, these feature a curved glass front.
- Quadrant Shower Enclosures: Symmetrical (e.g., 900mm x 900mm).
- Offset Quadrant Shower Enclosures: One side is longer (e.g., 1200mm x 800mm), offering more internal showering space.
- Best for: Maximising internal space while minimising the external footprint.
Walk-In Showers
Walk-in showers and wetroom panels feature a fixed glass panel with an open entry, eliminating the need for a moving door.
- Best for: Modern, accessible wet rooms or large bathrooms.
If you remain undecided about which style suits your bathroom, our article 'Which Shower Enclosure Do I Need?' breaks down the pros and cons of each configuration.
Additional Considerations
Beyond the tape measure, consider these factors before making your final decision:
- Obstructions: Open the bathroom door and check if it interferes with the area where the shower door will swing. Check the proximity of toilets, vanity units, and heated towel rails.
- Plumbing: Ensure your chosen enclosure allows for access to plumbing in case maintenance is required.
- Wall Construction: Ensure the wall is solid enough to hold the weight of the glass door. Heavy glass (8mm or 10mm) requires robust fixing points.
- Accessibility: If mobility is a concern, consider a walk-in enclosure or a door with a low threshold for easy entry.
Conclusion
Taking the time to measure your shower enclosure correctly is the single most important step in your bathroom renovation. Precise measurements ensure a watertight fit, smooth door operation, and a professional finish. By following the three-point measurement rule and accounting for wall adjustments, you avoid common installation pitfalls.
Double-check your figures, consider the swing of the door, and ensure your tray is level. With your dimensions ready, you can confidently select a high-quality enclosure that fits your bathroom perfectly.
Browse and shop our extensive range of shower enclosures today to find the perfect fit for your bathroom.
