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Installing a frameless glass shower door isn’t just another weekend project – it’s a precision job that demands accuracy down to the millimeter. Do it right, and you’ll have a watertight, flawless enclosure that lasts for decades. Do it wrong, and you’ll be calling someone to fix leaks, cracks, or worse.

At The Original Frameless Shower Doors®, we’ve been manufacturing and installing the finest frameless shower doors in the U.S. for more than 30 years. We’ve seen thousands of perfect installations – and plenty that went sideways because someone underestimated how technical the process really is.

If you’re weighing whether to hire professionals or take the DIY route, here’s what to consider before making your decision.

The DIY Approach

DIY installation can be tempting. After all, frameless shower doors can ship ready to install, and doing it yourself can seem like a good way to save on labor costs.

If you’ve got solid DIY experience, the right tools, and a steady hand, it’s possible to get excellent results. But precision is everything here – a fraction of an inch off can compromise both appearance and function.

Pros of DIY Installation

1. Cost Savings

Skipping labor costs can save you a few hundred dollars upfront, especially on smaller enclosures.

2. Flexibility

You can work on your own schedule and take time to double-check each step.

3. Learning Experience

For confident DIYers, installing a shower door can be a rewarding challenge.

4. Quality DIY Kits Available

With our tips for DIY shower installation, you can access the same high-grade materials our pros use – tempered glass, precision hardware, and professional instructions included.

Cons of DIY Installation

1. Measurement Errors

Even minor miscalculations can cause leaks or gaps. Frameless glass has zero room for error.

2. Heavy and Fragile Materials

Tempered glass panels can weigh over 100 pounds and must be handled correctly to avoid cracking or injury.

3. Special Tools Required

You’ll need glass suction cups, a laser level, diamond drill bits, and sealing materials – most homeowners don’t already own these.

4. No Warranty on Installation Errors

If you install incorrectly, you’re responsible for repairs or replacements.

5. Safety Risks

Drilling near tile edges or misaligned hinges can lead to stress fractures or glass failure later.

DIY can be satisfying – but with frameless glass, “close enough” isn’t good enough.

Professional Installation

Professional installers bring years of hands-on experience, ensuring your door is perfectly level, sealed, and supported. At The Original Frameless Shower Doors®, our technicians are certified through Frameless University®, our in-house training program that covers the physics, sealing, and structural engineering behind every installation.

We’ve handled every configuration imaginable – corner entries, steam enclosures, half-walls, and oversized panels – and we know exactly how to prevent leaks, gaps, and stress points.

Pros of Professional Installation

1. Guaranteed Precision

Experts measure and align glass to the millimeter, ensuring a flawless fit.

2. Warranty Coverage

Our installations come with a lifetime warranty on branded glass and hardware – peace of mind no DIY kit can match.

3. Faster and Cleaner Process

A professional team can complete the job in a single visit, with minimal mess and disruption.

4. Custom Fit for Complex Spaces

Odd angles, tight spaces, or out-of-plumb walls? We fabricate glass in-house to match them exactly.

5. Built-In Safety

From load-bearing checks to correct hinge tension, our technicians install every door to code and safety standards.

6. Finishing Quality

The final result looks smoother, tighter, and cleaner – like a permanent part of your bathroom, not an add-on.

Cons of Professional Installation

1. Higher Upfront Cost

Labor costs increase the total price, though they often save you money in the long run by avoiding mistakes.

2. Scheduling Required

You’ll need to book a time and prepare the space before the team arrives.

3. Less Hands-On Control

For DIY enthusiasts, letting someone else handle the job can feel less personal – but it guarantees a perfect outcome.

When you’re investing in a frameless shower, you’re not just buying glass – you’re buying craftsmanship. Our team has spent decades perfecting the process so you don’t have to.

Which Option Is Right for You?

If you’re confident with precision tools, understand glass safety, and have help lifting panels, a DIY installation might work for you. Our stylish upgrades you can do yourself include everything you need, from instructions to precision-cut glass.

But if you want guaranteed accuracy, lifetime protection, and flawless finish quality, professional installation is the smarter choice – especially for larger or custom enclosures.

A frameless shower door is a long-term investment in your home’s value and comfort. It deserves expert handling.

Why Pick Our Frameless Shower Door

At The Original Frameless Shower Doors®, we don’t just sell glass – we build systems engineered for lasting performance. For over 30 years, we’ve been refining our designs and installation methods to deliver unmatched clarity, strength, and precision.

Here’s what makes our team the industry benchmark:

• In-house fabrication at our Coral Springs facility – no outsourcing, no margin for error.
• StayCLEAN® glass coating for effortless maintenance.
• Frameless University®-trained installers with years of hands-on experience.
• SGCC-certified tempered glass for maximum safety and stability.
• Lifetime warranty on glass and hardware

We don’t just install shower doors – we redefine bathrooms.

The Bottom Line

Both professional and DIY installation have their merits. DIY gives flexibility and satisfaction, while professional work guarantees safety, precision, and longevity.

But when you’re working with heavy, high-value glass, even a small mistake can cost more to fix than the price of hiring experts in the first place.

At The Original Frameless Shower Doors®, every enclosure we build and install is backed by decades of expertise and craftsmanship. Whether you want to roll up your sleeves or leave it to the pros, we’ll give you the tools – or the team – to get it done right.

FAQs

Q: Can I install a frameless shower door without professional tools?

A: Not safely. You’ll need specialty equipment like suction cups, laser levels, and precision drill bits.

Q: Do you offer support for DIY installations?

A: Yes. We provide detailed instructions, video guides, and phone support for all DIY customers.

Q: How long does professional installation take?

A: Typically one visit after your custom glass is ready – most installs are completed within 7–10 business days.

Q: Does hiring professionals affect warranty coverage?

A: Yes – in a good way. Our lifetime warranty applies to all professional installations using our branded glass and hardware.

Q: Can you fix a DIY job that went wrong?

A: Absolutely. Our team regularly corrects misaligned or leaking enclosures and re-installs them to our standards.