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How Thick Should Shower Screen Glass Be?
Thinking about a new shower screen and not sure what thickness you need? Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right glass—safe, sturdy, and suited to your bathroom.
Quick Answer
Frameless: 10 mm (most common) or 8 mm for smaller builds
Semi-Frameless: 6–8 mm
Fully Framed: 6 mm
All shower screens should use safety glass, toughened (tempered) is most common; laminated safety glass is also compliant in some designs, meeting AS/NZS 2208 and installed to AS 1288.
Why Glass Thickness Matters
Safety & Compliance – Thicker panels resist impact and flex.
Panel Size & Layout – Taller, wider, or unsupported panels usually need thicker glass.
Hardware & Fixing Method – Clips, hinges, channels, and wall type affect rigidity.
Door Style – Hinged doors carry point loads; sliders distribute weight differently.
Look & Feel – Thicker glass feels premium; slimmer glass can suit compact spaces.
Budget – Thicker glass and extra bracing/hardware increase cost.
Common Shower Screen Types & Typical Thickness
Frameless Shower Screens
Standard: 10 mm toughened glass
When 8 mm Works: Smaller doors or panels, or when extra bracing is used
Why 10 mm Is Popular: Provides better rigidity, a premium feel, and smoother hinge action
Semi-Frameless Shower Screens
Typical: 6–8 mm toughened glass
Design Note: Minimal framing and channels support the glass while maintaining a light, modern look
Fully Framed Shower Screens
Typical: 6 mm toughened glass
Design Note: The full frame provides structural support, allowing slightly thinner glass without compromising safety
Handy Guide: Panel Sizes vs Suggested Thickness
| Panel/Door Use Case | Typical Size (H × W) | Suggested Thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frameless Hinged Door | up to ~2000 × 700–800 mm | 10mm | 8mm possible when narrower/shorter |
| Frameless Fixed Return Panel | up to ~2000 × 800–900 mm | 10mm | Add a brace/bar if wide or free-standing |
| Frameless Slider (Door Panel) | up to ~2000 × 900–1000 mm | 10mm | Some compact systems allow 8mm |
| Semi-Frameless Door/Fixed Panel | up to ~2000 × 700–900 mm | 6–8mm | Framing and channels add stiffness |
| Fully Framed Door/Fixed Panel | up to ~2000 × 600–900 mm | 6mm | Strong frame; family-friendly option |
Sizes are typical ranges—final specs depend on design, bracing, substrate, and hardware ratings.
Doors, Hinges, Sliders: What To Consider
Hinged / Pivot Doors (Frameless): Prefer 10 mm for weight and stability
Sliding Doors: 8–10 mm depending on the system; rollers and track must be rated for the weight
Fixed Panels: Wide free-standing panels benefit from 10 mm plus a stabiliser bar
Small Bathroom Or Tight Layout?
Slimmer Where It Makes Sense: An 8 mm frameless door with a braced fixed panel can save weight and space
Height Considerations: Extra-tall panels usually require 10 mm glass and possibly additional bracing
Wall Condition: Hollow or uneven walls may require alternative fixings or thicker glass for a solid result
Safety, Standards & Glass Types
Toughened (Tempered) Safety Glass: The standard for shower screens in Australia
Heat-Soaked Toughened: Can be specified for extra quality assurance on larger panels
Laminated Options: Less common in showers but suitable for specific privacy or acoustic needs
Edge Finishing: Polished edges reduce micro-chips and improve durability
Ezy Glide sources and installs glass to meet the relevant Australian Standards for safety glazing and installation. We’ll recommend the right spec for your exact layout.
What Ezy Glide Usually Recommends
Frameless: 10 mm (premium feel), or 8 mm for compact layouts or lightweight sliders
Semi-Frameless: 6–8 mm
Fully Framed: 6 mm
Bracing: Add a stabiliser bar or header where spans are wide or panels are free-standing
Hardware: Hinges and rollers must be matched to the actual glass weight and usage
FAQs
Is 6mm Glass Thick Enough For A Shower Screen?
Yes—for semi-framed and fully framed systems. For frameless, 10mm is usually preferred.
Is 8mm OK For Frameless?
Often yes for smaller doors or well-braced panels. For tall/wide doors, 10mm provides better stability and feel.
Does Thicker Glass Stop Leaks?
Leak control is more about design and sealing (channels, seals, fall to drain) than thickness alone.
What About Very Tall Panels (Over 2m)?
Expect 10mm and possibly extra bracing. We’ll assess wall structure, fixing points, and span.
Ready To Choose The Right Thickness?
Ezy Glide designs and installs shower screens across Greater Sydney. We’ll measure, advise on 6, 8, or 10mm options, select hardware to match the glass weight, and install to Australian Standards—so your screen looks great and lasts.
Book A Free Measure & Quote: (02) 9587 6077
