How To Measure Shower Door Opening

Measuring a shower door opening is a crucial step before purchasing and installing a new shower door. An accurate measurement ensures that the door will fit properly and function smoothly. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to measure your shower door opening correctly:

Gather Necessary Tools

Before you start, gather the following tools:

Measuring tape
Pencil or marker
Notebook or notepad

Measure Width

To measure the width of the opening, follow these steps:

Stand inside the shower and measure the distance between the two side walls at the widest point.
Make a mark on the wall at each end of the measurement using a pencil or marker.
Measure the distance between the two marks, which is the width of the door opening.

Measure Height

To measure the height of the opening, follow these steps:

Measure from the top of the threshold or curb to the desired height of the top of the door.
Make a mark on the wall at this height.
Measure the distance from the mark to the bottom of the threshold or curb, which is the height of the door opening.

Measure Diagonal

Measuring the diagonals helps determine if the opening is square or rectangular. Follow these steps:

Measure from one corner of the opening diagonally to the opposite corner.
Repeat the measurement from the other two corners.
If the two measurements are not equal, the opening is not square and will require a custom-sized door.

Determine Door Type

Based on your measurements, you can determine the type of shower door you need:

Sliding doors: Measured width should be slightly smaller than the actual opening, allowing for the overlap of the panels.
Pivot doors: Measured height should be slightly taller than the actual opening, allowing for the clearance of the pivot hinge.
Swing doors: Measured width should be equal to the actual opening, and the height should be slightly taller.

Note Additional Details

In addition to the main measurements, note the following details:

Any obstructions, such as handles, shelves, or fixtures, that may affect the door's installation.
The type of shower curb or threshold.
The desired style and finish of the shower door.

Accuracy and Precision

Accuracy is essential when measuring for a shower door. Use a measuring tape in good condition and take multiple measurements to ensure precision. Double-check your measurements before making a purchase.

Professional Help

If you are unsure about measuring your shower door opening accurately, consider consulting a bathroom remodeling professional. They can provide expert guidance and ensure a perfect fit for your new door.