Aging in Place: Don't Skimp on Shower Door Width

Is your bathroom built for the years ahead?

You're not alone if safety, comfort, and accessibility are top of mind. Something as routine as showering can get harder in a bathroom that wasn't designed with aging in place in mind.

If you or a loved one uses a wheelchair, the shower entrance needs to be wide enough to roll through. ADA guidelines recommend at least a 32-inch clear opening, which usually means a 33-inch-wide door.

That can be tough in smaller bathrooms where space is already tight around vanities and toilets. Significant layout changes may be needed to meet accessibility standards without making the rest of the bathroom feel cramped.

Learn more in our latest article.

Need Help Remodeling Your Novi Bathroom?

If you’re in the Novi or Ann Arbor area, we can help you remodel your bathroom! Reach out today at (734) 426-5600 or through our contact form. We'd love to help create a bathroom you'll feel good using for years to come.

Aging in Place: Go Curbless

When you picture getting older in your home, does your shower feel like it might not keep up? 

Modern shower designs make it easier than ever to blend safety with style. If you're planning a remodel, going curbless or low-curb can make a huge difference.

Curbless walk-in showers are a top choice for aging-in-place designs. Without a step or threshold to navigate, getting in and out is far easier — whether you use a walker, a wheelchair, or just want to reduce tripping hazards.

That said, curbless showers take careful planning. A properly sloped floor and well-placed drain are essential to keep water where it belongs. Retrofitting a curbless shower into an existing bathroom can be tricky — the framing and layout might not allow enough slope. In those cases, a low curb that's easy to step over can be the smartest compromise, keeping water in while staying accessible.

Learn more in our latest article.

Need Help Remodeling Your Novi Bathroom?

If you’re in the Novi or Ann Arbor area, we can help you remodel your bathroom! Reach out today at (734) 426-5600 or through our contact form. We'd love to help create a bathroom you'll feel good using for years to come.

The Benefits of a Steam Shower

Are you looking for a way to bring the spa experience into your own home?

A steam shower may be just what you need! Here are a few benefits of an at-home steam shower:

Relaxation and Stress Relief

After a busy day, stepping into a steam shower can help you unwind both physically and mentally. The warm steam promotes relaxation by helping to loosen tight muscles and ease tension throughout the body.

Many homeowners find that regular steam sessions help create a calming routine that supports overall wellness and stress management.

Improved Respiratory Comfort

The warm, moist air generated by a steam shower can help open nasal passages and airways. Many people enjoy steam showers when dealing with seasonal allergies, sinus congestion, dry air, or minor respiratory discomfort.

The added moisture can provide a soothing environment that makes breathing feel more comfortable.

Muscle Recovery and Joint Comfort

Whether you are an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply dealing with everyday aches and pains, steam can help soothe sore muscles and stiff joints. The heat encourages increased circulation, which may help promote recovery after exercise and physical activity.

Many homeowners enjoy using their steam shower after workouts, yard work, or long days on their feet.

Healthier-Looking Skin

Steam helps open pores and encourages perspiration, which can help remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin's surface. Many users report that their skin feels refreshed and rejuvenated after a steam session.

Combined with proper skincare, a steam shower can become part of a healthy self-care routine.

A Spa Experience Without Leaving Home

One of the most appealing aspects of a steam shower is the convenience of enjoying a luxury spa experience whenever you want. There is no need to schedule appointments or travel to a wellness center.

Modern steam showers can even incorporate features such as built-in seating, specialty lighting, aromatherapy, and custom tile designs to create a truly personalized retreat.

Increased Home Value and Appeal

Luxury bathroom upgrades continue to be popular among homeowners and prospective buyers. A well-designed steam shower can make your bathroom stand out while enhancing your home's overall appeal.

Many buyers view steam showers as a premium feature that combines comfort, convenience, and modern design.

Learn more in our latest article.

Remodel Your Ann Arbor Bathroom with Custom Glass

We specialize in custom shower doors and glass enclosures designed to fit your space perfectly. Our experienced team will visit your home, take precise measurements, and create a beautiful custom glass enclosure tailored to your steam shower design.

Whether you're remodeling your bathroom or building a new home, we can help bring your vision to life with expertly crafted glass solutions that combine beauty, functionality, and long-lasting performance.

If you're considering remodeling your bathroom in Ann Arbor, contact Wolverine Glass today at (734) 426-5600 or by submitting a contact form to schedule your consultation and learn how a custom glass enclosure can transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat.

At-Home Steam Showers

Want to create a luxurious bathroom retreat and add value to your property?

A steam shower may be the perfect solution. More homeowners than ever are investing in steam showers to enhance relaxation, improve wellness, and create a personalized space for self-care. With the right design and a professionally installed glass enclosure, a steam shower can transform an ordinary bathroom into a luxurious escape.

What Is a Steam Shower?

A steam shower is a fully enclosed shower equipped with a steam generator that heats water and releases warm steam into the enclosure. Unlike a traditional shower, a steam shower creates a humid environment that surrounds your body with soothing warmth.

To function properly, a steam shower must be enclosed from floor to ceiling. This allows the steam to remain inside the shower, creating the comfortable, spa-like atmosphere that steam shower owners enjoy.

Why Custom Glass Matters

A steam shower is only as effective as its enclosure. Because steam must remain contained within the shower area, custom glass walls and doors are essential.

Professionally measured and installed glass panels help create a secure enclosure that maximizes steam retention while maintaining the open, elegant appearance that modern homeowners love. Floor-to-ceiling glass designs can create a striking visual centerpiece while allowing natural light to flow throughout the bathroom.

Learn more in our latest article.

Remodel Your Ann Arbor Bathroom with Custom Glass

We specialize in custom shower doors and glass enclosures designed to fit your space perfectly. Our experienced team will visit your home, take precise measurements, and create a beautiful custom glass enclosure tailored to your steam shower design.

Whether you're remodeling your bathroom or building a new home, we can help bring your vision to life with expertly crafted glass solutions that combine beauty, functionality, and long-lasting performance.

If you're considering remodeling your bathroom in Ann Arbor, contact Wolverine Glass today at (734) 426-5600 or by submitting a contact form to schedule your consultation and learn how a custom glass enclosure can transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat.

How Barn-Style Shower Doors are Different from Semi-Frameless Sliding

In our last blog, we talked about semi-frameless sliding shower doors. But how are they different from barn-style shower doors?

Barn-style shower doors have grown in popularity thanks to their bold, modern-industrial appearance. Inspired by traditional sliding barn doors, these shower enclosures feature exposed rollers and visible overhead hardware that become part of the overall design aesthetic.

Unlike semi-frameless sliders, barn doors are designed to showcase the hardware rather than conceal it.

Key Differences Between Sliding and Barn Shower Doors

While both options are space-saving sliding systems, there are several important distinctions to consider.

Hardware Style

Semi-frameless sliders hide most of their rollers and hardware within the frame for a more subtle appearance.

Barn doors intentionally expose the rollers and track, creating a decorative focal point.

Framing

Semi-frameless doors typically include metal channels around portions of the glass perimeter.

Barn-style doors use less framing overall, emphasizing clean glass lines and exposed hardware.

Door Configuration

Many semi-frameless sliding systems feature two operable sliding panels, allowing entry from either side.

Barn-style systems often include one fixed panel and one sliding panel.

Learn more in our latest article.

Explore Custom Shower Doors for Your Ann Arbor Bathroom Remodel

Whether you prefer the clean functionality of a semi-frameless slider or the bold style of a barn-style enclosure, Wolverine Glass offers beautiful solutions for bathrooms of every size.

If you live near Ann Arbor and you’re remodeling your bathroom, the best way to compare options is to see them in person and discuss your space with an experienced glass professional. To get started, you can do any of the following:

• Call 734-426-5600
• Submit an online contact form
• Schedule a showroom consultation in Dexter or Novi

Intro to Semi-Frameless Sliding Shower Doors

Are you worried that remodeling your bathroom will cost you valuable space?

Semi-frameless sliding shower doors remain one of the most requested options for homeowners who want a balance of style, durability, and affordability.

These doors typically feature:

• Slim metal framing around the perimeter 

• Hidden rollers housed inside the top frame 

• Dual sliding panels for flexible entry access 

Because the hardware is more concealed, semi-frameless sliders create a clean and polished appearance without fully exposing the hardware.

Learn more in our latest article.

Explore Custom Shower Doors for Your Ann Arbor Bathroom Remodel

Whether you prefer the clean functionality of a semi-frameless slider or the bold style of a barn-style enclosure, Wolverine Glass offers beautiful solutions for bathrooms of every size.

If you live near Ann Arbor and you’re remodeling your bathroom, the best way to compare options is to see them in person and discuss your space with an experienced glass professional. To get started, you can do any of the following:

• Call 734-426-5600
• Submit an online contact form
• Schedule a showroom consultation in Dexter or Novi

Common Applications for Custom Mirrors

Did you know that you can use custom mirrors to enhance almost any space?

While bathrooms and full-length dressing mirrors are the most popular uses, custom mirrors are used in many other settings, including:

Home & Commercial Gyms

Floor-to-ceiling mirrors help monitor form, make small spaces feel larger, and create a clean, professional workout environment.

Bar Backsplashes

Mirrored backsplashes add sparkle, depth, and visual interest—perfect for home bars or commercial hospitality spaces.

Bedrooms, Closets & Entryways

Full-length mirrors add elegance to everyday routines.

Hallways & Living Spaces

Strategically placed mirrors brighten rooms by reflecting natural light.

Learn more in our latest article.

Transform Your Space with a Custom Mirror

Whether you're completing your Novi bathroom remodel, upgrading your home gym, or enhancing a small space, we can help create and install the perfect mirror.

Contact Wolverine Glass today to discuss your custom mirror project and bring your vision to life.

Custom Mirrors Provide the Perfect Fit

Why are custom mirrors better than store-bought?

Most mass-produced mirrors come in a handful of standard dimensions—usually no more than a few feet wide. That works for quick solutions, but not for spaces where scale and proportion matter.

Custom mirrors allow you to:

Cover entire walls with seamless reflective surface

• Create expansive full-length dressing mirrors
• Fit mirrors into tight or unusually shaped areas
• Maximize both natural light and visual space

Whether you’re designing a home gym, brightening a hallway, or building a dressing area, a custom mirror gives you complete control over the look and layout.

Built Around Your Design Vision

Custom mirrors offer flexibility that pre-made options can’t match. With professional fabrication, you can choose:

• Exact dimensions that suit your room
• Specialty shapes—geometric, rounded, organic, or modern
• Cut-outs for outlets, lighting, and architectural features
• Different edge finishes (beveled, flat-polished, pencil-polished)
• Installation styles that match your design preferences

From sleek and minimalist to dramatic and artistic, customization ensures your mirror complements your space instead of settling for whatever fits.

Learn more in our latest article.

Transform Your Space with a Custom Mirror

Whether you're completing your Novi bathroom remodel, upgrading your home gym, or enhancing a small space, we can help create and install the perfect mirror.

Contact Wolverine Glass today to discuss your custom mirror project and bring your vision to life.

Wolverine Glass Commercial Services

Wolverine Glass has opened up a new showroom in Novi, MI! To welcome our new neighbors, we want to share what it is that we do. Here’s what we offer for repairing glass at your place of business:

Commercial Services

Discover a chip in your storefront window or a damaged glass front door? Don't let it drive customers away. Wolverine Glass and Sandhill Glass Co. specialize in fabricating and installing aluminum frame windows, entrances, storefronts, and curtainwall systems for commercial and governmental buildings. Our services extend to repairing and maintaining these systems, covering windows, storefront glass, entrance doors, curtain wall systems, and security glass. Whether it's chip repairs or complete replacements, we've got you covered.

Commercial Glass Door Repair

Elevate your storefront's appearance and functionality with our comprehensive repair services. From adjusting closers for seamless operation to replacing handles and locks for enhanced security, our experts ensure every touchpoint reflects professionalism and reliability. We also specialize in door sweep and seal replacements, rusted or seized door repairs, and overall door adjustments to maintain comfort and energy efficiency. Transform your space with our premium commercial glass door repair in Ann Arbor. 

Commercial Glass Repair

For all your commercial glass needs in Ann Arbor, Wolverine Glass and Sandhill Glass Co. offer professional solutions to address broken glass, fogged insulated units, and interior glass issues in retail, office, and institutional spaces. Our expert team swiftly replaces broken glass panels, restores clarity to fogged insulated units, and handles interior glass repairs with precision and care.

Read about the Novi showroom in our latest article.

Visit Our Novi Showroom for Bathroom Remodels and More

If you live near Novi and you’re planning a bathroom remodel, upgrading your shower door, or adding a custom glass feature to your home, our Novi showroom makes it easier than ever to bring your vision to life. Stop in today by creating a Novi showroom consultation appointment.

📍 Wolverine Glass – Novi Showroom

40000 Grand River Ave, Ste 109, Novi, MI 48375

Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

If you have questions or comments, don’t be afraid to reach out at (734) 426-5600 or through our contact form.

Wolverine Glass Residential Services

Wolverine Glass has opened up a new showroom in Novi, MI! To welcome our new neighbors, we want to share what it is that we do. Here’s what we offer for adding custom glass to your home:

Shower Doors

Transform your bathroom into a luxurious retreat with our stylish and functional shower doors. From modern designs to classic elegance, we cater to your unique preferences, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

Mirrors

Add a touch of sophistication to your living spaces with our custom mirrors. Whether you're looking to create an illusion of space or enhance natural light, our expertly crafted mirrors are tailored to suit your needs and style.

Custom Glass

Express your individuality with our custom glass solutions. From unique glass installations to personalized home decor, we bring your vision to life with precision and craftsmanship, making your space truly one-of-a-kind.

Glass Table Tops

Upgrade your furniture with our glass table tops, combining elegance and durability. Protect your furniture while adding a sleek and modern touch to your interiors, making every meal or gathering a stylish affair.

Glass Window Repair

Don't let cracked or damaged windows compromise your home's comfort and security. Our glass window repair services ensure swift and efficient solutions, restoring clarity and functionality to keep your home in top condition.

Shower Revitalization

Renew and revitalize your shower with our specialized service. Cleaning, resealing, and upgrading fixtures, our shower revitalization ensures a fresh and inviting bathroom space.

Read about the Novi showroom in our latest article.

Visit Our Novi Showroom for Bathroom Remodels and More

If you live near Novi and you’re planning a bathroom remodel, upgrading your shower door, or adding a custom glass feature to your home, our Novi showroom makes it easier than ever to bring your vision to life. Stop in today by creating a Novi showroom consultation appointment.

📍 Wolverine Glass – Novi Showroom

40000 Grand River Ave, Ste 109, Novi, MI 48375

Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

If you have questions or comments, don’t be afraid to reach out at (734) 426-5600 or through our contact form.

Popular Shower Door Options in 2025

Are you dreaming of a bathroom that feels more open, modern, and functional?

Check out these stylish options for replacing a bathtub with a shower!

Sliding Doors

Sliding shower doors remain the most space-efficient option for tub-to-shower conversions. Modern sliding doors are nothing like the clunky framed versions from decades past. Today, you’ll find elegant frameless sliders, including barn-style tracks that combine sleek design with practicality.

Door & Panel

For a standard 60” tub-to-shower conversion, a common setup is a door-and-panel arrangement—a glass door on one side and a fixed glass panel on the other. The size of the door is tailored to your bathroom layout, with adjustments made if your vanity or toilet is nearby.

Panel-Only (Walk-In Showers)

Fixed glass panels create an open-concept, spa-like feel without the need for a door. Typically, the panel is installed on the same side as the shower controls, leaving an open entry. While this design does allow more water to escape onto the bathroom floor, your shower door specialist can help determine the right panel size and placement to minimize splashing.

Learn more in our latest article.

Helping with Bathroom Remodels in Novi and Beyond!

If you live in or around Novi and need help remodeling your bathroom, the pros at Wolverine Glass are here to help you! Transform your outdated tub into a modern, stylish shower that fits your lifestyle. Call us at 734-426-5600 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to designing with you!

Challenges with a Tub-to-Shower Remodel

Are you considering swapping out your bathtub for a shower?

There are several great reasons to do this, but also a few challenges to consider. Fortunately, the technicians at Wolverine Glass can help with all of them! 

Here is a brief description of things to consider before making the swap:

Bathrooms originally built with a tub in mind often present unique design challenges when converting to a shower. One of the biggest considerations is space.

In many homes, the toilet is located close to the tub, which can limit where and how a shower door can open. A swinging shower door, for example, might hit the toilet or vanity. In these cases, sliding doors or fixed glass panels are often better solutions.

This is where working with an experienced shower door designer makes a big difference—they’ll help you balance functionality, layout, and style to find the perfect fit for your space.

Learn more in our latest article.

Helping with Bathroom Remodels in Novi and Beyond!

If you live in or around Novi and need help remodeling your bathroom, the pros at Wolverine Glass are here to help you! Transform your outdated tub into a modern, stylish shower that fits your lifestyle. Call us at 734-426-5600 or submit a contact form here. We look forward to designing with you!

Channel vs Clips - Part 2

In our last blog, we discussed how frameless shower doors have side panels that can be held in place by a channel. Here, we’ll discuss the second option to hold the side panels in place.

The second method is with clips. In this method, three or more clips hold the side panels in place. A typical door with one panel next to it will have a single clip along the floor and two along the wall. We generally quote clips as an option, but it does cost a little more.

The choice between these two methods is purely aesthetic. Both serve the same function: supporting the walls of the shower and keeping the water inside. Most people aim to minimize the amount of metal visible with a frameless shower door. While we can minimize the metal, we can’t eliminate it entirely. It comes down to whether you prefer a smaller, continuous line of channel along the glass edges or a few discrete pieces of metal with the clips.

Learn more in our latest article.

Live near Ann Arbor? Wolverine Glass has your frameless shower door covered!

Look for videos on our YouTube channel explaining the choices you can make and the process of designing and installing beautiful new glass and mirrors in your home. If you have any questions, reach out to us by calling (734) 426-5600 or submitting a contact form here. You can also visit our showroom from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

Channel vs Clips - Part 1

What’s the difference between a channel and clips?

A typical frameless shower door has a door and one or more panels to the side of it. The door is held in place by hinges, but the side panels are held in place by one of two different methods.

The first method is with a channel. In this method, the side panels sit in a piece of metal channel along the floor and up the side of any walls. This method is included in the base price that we quote.

The choice between these two methods is purely aesthetic. Both serve the same function: supporting the walls of the shower and keeping the water inside. Most people aim to minimize the amount of metal visible with a frameless shower door. While we can minimize the metal, we can’t eliminate it entirely. It comes down to whether you prefer a smaller, continuous line of channel along the glass edges or a few discrete pieces of metal with the clips.

Learn more in our latest article.

Live near Ann Arbor? Wolverine Glass has your frameless shower door covered!

Look for videos on our YouTube channel explaining the choices you can make and the process of designing and installing beautiful new glass and mirrors in your home. If you have any questions, reach out to us by calling (734) 426-5600 or submitting a contact form here. You can also visit our showroom from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

The Shower Door Installation Process

Looking for a step-by-step guide of the shower door installation process?

The crew will arrive and park their van or truck along the street or in the driveway. They will be looking to place the van in a position that provides the shortest, safest route to carry the glass into the home.

A crew member will introduce themselves and ask to be shown the bathroom they’ll be working in. As they walk to the shower, they will be assessing and making a plan for how they will get the materials in and out of the home. They may politely ask you to put away items that are at risk of being knocked over or damaged.

They will begin by first setting up their tools and laying down drop cloths in the bathroom to protect the floor and collect debris. 

Then they will begin the installation itself. This will involve bringing materials in from the van and unpackaging them. They may temporarily set some of these materials in an adjacent room or a hallway since space is likely to be limited in the bathroom.

Installation can be noisy, as it involves drilling holes into the tile or surround material. You will hear some banging as well as they are positioning the glass into place. If there is someone in your home sensitive to loud noises, make sure there’s a plan in place for their comfort.

One of the last steps during installation is applying silicone caulk to seal the shower. It is extremely important to leave the shower door and shower door alone for 24 hours after the install to allow for the caulk to cure and set. Do not use the shower or turn on the water during this time. Also avoid touching, wiggling, or otherwise moving the glass during this time.

Once the work is completed, our crew will clean up and pack all their tools and materials. One of the crew members will review the work with you and answer any questions that you may have before they leave.

Learn more in our latest article.

Live near Novi, MI and need a new glass shower door?

If you’re due for a new shower door, whether for function or beauty, you don’t have to wait! Wolverine Glass installs glass shower doors in and around the Novi, MI area. For a full list of cities that we serve, scroll down to the bottom of any page on the website. To get started, call (734) 246-5600 or submit a contact form here.

How to Prepare for Shower Door Installation

Are you feeling anxious about getting a new shower door installed?

You’re finally getting a brand-new shower door installed to complete your new shower! We’ll tell you here what is going to happen during the installation, and what you can do to prepare so that everything goes smoothly.

The first thing to consider while preparing for your shower door installation is that the installers will be carrying long, heavy, breakable glass through your home. One of the most useful things that you can do is remove any obstacles and fragile items along the path from the entry door to the bathroom. Doing the following will set you up for a smooth installation:

• Declutter or put away as much bathroom items as possible. Bathrooms are tight spaces, and the installation crew needs as much free space as possible.
• Ensure that there are no loose items on the floor that could pose a tripping hazard. 
• Have a plan for keeping pets and children out of the way during installation. The crew will be carrying heavy glass, and having a dog run out while they are moving the glass in can be dangerous for everyone.
• If it’s winter, please ensure that the sidewalk and driveway have been cleared of snow and ice. This is both for the crew’s safety and to help minimize water and dirt that may be tracked into the home.

Learn more in our latest article.

Live near Novi, MI and need a new glass shower door?

If you’re due for a new shower door, whether for function or beauty, you don’t have to wait! Wolverine Glass installs glass shower doors in and around the Novi, MI area. For a full list of cities that we serve, scroll down to the bottom of any page on the website. To get started, call (734) 246-5600 or submit a contact form here.