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.

Frameless Shower Doors: Repairing and Replacing

How do you know when to make a repair versus a replacement?

In this blog, we give a few pointers for both hardware care and consumable item replacement.

Hardware Care

Hardware maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your frameless shower door. Here are some key points to remember:

• Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals that can damage the hardware finish.
• Clean most shower hardware by simply wiping with a damp cloth.
• Address loose hardware promptly to prevent further issues.
• Contact a professional for repairs involving loose hinges or support hardware to prevent accidental glass breakage.

Replacing Consumable Items

Some shower door components naturally wear over time and may need replacement:

• Door Sweeps: These plastic pieces at the bottom of the door help contain water within the shower. When torn or discolored, they can be easily replaced by sliding off the old one and installing a new one.  
• Caulking: If caulk has deteriorated or glass has broken free from it, address this immediately to prevent glass shifting and potential breakage. Regular cleaning can help prevent buildup along the caulk line.

Read more in our latest article.

Live near Brighton, MI and own a frameless shower door?

Remember, maintaining your frameless shower door not only preserves its beauty but also ensures its functionality for years to come. Wolverine Glass can help Brighton residents maintain and replace frameless shower doors. Call us at (734) 426-5600 or fill out our contact form here!

Frameless Shower Door Glass Maintenance

Do you know how to clean your frameless shower door?

High quality frameless shower doors can provide years of service in your home when properly maintained. Here are essential tips to maintain your frameless shower door and recognize when it's time for replacements or repairs.

With proper care, your shower door glass will remain clear for many years. However, neglecting to clean off hard minerals, soap scum, and other contaminants can lead to etching over time, resulting in a cloudy, discolored appearance that seems impossible to clean. Once the glass reaches this state, replacement is typically the only solution.

To prevent this issue:

• Use a squeegee after each shower to remove water from the glass.
• Consider special glass products like ShowerGuard® that provide a protective coating to prevent etching.

Read more in our latest article.

Live near Brighton, MI and own a frameless shower door?

Remember, maintaining your frameless shower door not only preserves its beauty but also ensures its functionality for years to come. Wolverine Glass can help Brighton residents maintain and replace frameless shower doors. Call us at (734) 426-5600 or fill out our contact form here!