5 Warning Signs Your Shower Door Needs Immediate Attention

I recently noticed a puddle of water in the bathroom while stepping out of the shower enclosure. At first, I thought it was just an overtime spill, but as time went by, I realized my shower door was leaking. Soon, I started noticing water damage on the bathroom walls. Shower enclosures are a huge investment, and you always want to avoid replacing them. So, better (and more environmentally friendly) to address the signs of trouble quickly, than spend a lot of time and money on a replacement. 

In this blog, I will discuss a few telltale signs that your shower door needs attention, saving you a lot of trouble later. 

Water Is Leaking Between the Shower Door and The Frame

Water leaking may not seem to be harmful at first, but can cause serious damage to your bathroom over time. Therefore, it is advisable to take immediate action if you notice water leakages between the door and frame. There are many things that cause leaks, but the most common culprit is a gap in the sealant. The degradation of sealant over time causes cracks that allow water to seep through. Another possibility that the door itself is damaged or warped.

If you see any cracks or chips in the glass, it's best to replace the door as soon as possible. In some cases, leaks are due a problem with the drain. If you suspect that this might be the case, call a plumber to have the drain checked out. Left unchecked, leaks can cause mold growth and water damage. If you notice any signs of a leak, don't hesitate to call a professional for help.

The Shower Door Doesn't Close or Seal Properly, Leading To Water Leakage 

Sometimes, shower doors don’t close properly and lead to water leakage. It may indicate that the door is not the right fit for the space. However, for pivot shower doors, loose or damaged hinges may be the cause. In some cases, a simple tightening of the screws might work. But, if the hinges are severely damaged, you will need to replace them to fix the problem. Sometimes, the door might close but not seal properly. This can be due to several reasons, including soap and scum build up. Regular cleaning may solve the problem. If not, then you may need to replace the sealant around the shower enclosure door.  

The Shower Door Glass Is Etched or Stained

Shower doors are crystal clear when installed. But over time become etched or stained due to improper cleaning or lack of looking after. It may also happen if your shower door is old and cleaning does not have much effect on the look. In this case, it may be the time for a replacement. Have a close look at the glass shower door; if it looks dull with a build up of soap scum and hard water stains, it’s probably time to look for a new door. You should also inspect the hardware; the rusting hinges, coupled with difficulty in closing and opening, means it will probably cost much more to repair than replace. And finally, look for signs of cracks and warping in the frame. If you find any, it won’t be long before the glass part shatters. 

There Are Visible Cracks in The Glass

The glass part of the shower door expands and contracts due to the heat inside the shower enclosure. This weakens the glass over time, resulting in visible cracks or even small explosions in the glass. Poor quality or improper installation may result in glass cracking and shattering. If there is a visible crack in the glass, you should start thinking about its replacement, as it will shatter sooner or later. Tempered safety glass shatters into tiny, harmless pieces, so you don’t need to worry about safety while showering in a shower enclosure with a cracked door. 

The Frame Is Rusty or Rotting

Rusting and rotting are good reasons to consider a shower door replacement. The shower door frame may rust for a variety of reasons, like poor quality, improper cleaning, and even bad installation. If there are visible signs of door rusting, it is important to address to issue as soon as possible. Not only does it make your shower door look bad, but it also leads to leaks and water damage. You can try repairing the damaged part, but if the damage is severe, the door must be replaced. You will also need to address the underlying cause of the rusting of the shower door. It is usually due to continuous exposure to humidity and moisture. To address the issue you need to have a properly ventilated bathroom. Keep your bathroom windows open if you have any, and install a ventilation fan to reduce the humidity. Additionally, the use of harsh chemicals may damage the upper surface of the frame, which may start rusting over time. It is advisable to consult with a professional plumber if you are unsure about anything. It is essential because rusting ultimately leads to rotting, resulting in irrepareable damage.  

Ending Thoughts

Shower doors play an important role in keeping water where it belongs. Just like any other fixture, they may have problems like leaks, cracks, or rust, making your space look bad and also leading to costly damages over time. Knowing the signs of problems can help you take corrective measures or replace the faulty shower door to ensure your bathroom remains functional, safe, stylish and sustainable. Don’t wait for a small issue to become a big headache; address the underlying issue as soon as possible rather than regret later.