How to Choose the Best Shower Stall or Enclosure (2025)

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How to Choose the Best Shower Stall or Enclosure (1)

By Holly Honeycutt
Updated March 6, 2024

If you have an outdated shower and you’re looking to refresh your bathroom, a shower enclosure is a worthwhile investment. Typically, shower stalls or enclosures are relatively easy to install, saving you time and money. We’ll show you how to select the best one for your space.

How to Choose the Best Shower Stall or Enclosure (2)

The Basics

Before you start shopping, there are three key questions you’ll need to answer.

  1. Do you need a shower only or a shower and tub combination?
  2. What size do you need?
  3. Where’s the drain located? (For an existing bathroom, you’ll want to purchase a shower kit or enclosure that includes the current position of your drain, e.g., left, right, center, etc.)

How to Measure

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In order to determine the size shower or shower and tub enclosure that’s needed, you’ll have to measure your space. First, measure the width of your shower, followed by the length.

The most common measurements are: 30, 32, 34 or 36 inches wide by 60 inches long. If those aren’t your measurements, it’s OK. There are dozens of sizes to choose from. The wall height of most showers is 96 inches. There are some shorter wall sizes available.

Shower Components

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Now that measurements are done, you’ll need to determine what type of shower kit or components would fit best in your bathroom.

Shower Base and Shower Door
If you’re planning on tiling the walls, you’ll only need a shower base and door.

Shower Walls and Base
This option will include the shower walls and the shower base. You can either purchase a shower door separately or use a shower curtain.

There are also kits that include the shower walls and the bathtub. Depending on the kit that you purchase, some include a shower door.

Shower Wall, Base and Door
This option includes everything you’ll need to complete your shower.

Shower Kit Designs

If you’d like to purchase a shower kit, there are three options to choose from.

Corner Shower Kits
If you’re lacking square footage, corner shower kits are a great idea for small bathrooms. Some corner kits have a rounded shower door, making it feel roomier inside.

Alcove Shower Kits
These kits are supported by three walls that create a recessed space. Alcove shower kits are the most popular choice and are available in square or rectangular shapes.

One-Piece Shower Kit
As the name suggests, the walls and base are all one piece. This means that there are no seams or caulk. Caulkless installation ensures you won’t have a problem with mold, mildew or water leaks.

Need to Know

Since one-piece units come in one large piece that can’t be disassembled, they may only work for a new build, as opposed to a remodel where you’re trying to fit them through existing doorways. Check the product information and measurements carefully.

Good to Know

For more information about selecting the best configuration for your bathroom, read Choose the Best Shower Walls and Bases for Your Bathroom.

Main Features

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Now that the basics have been explained, it’s time to discuss some key features that are included.

Thresholds
A threshold is the piece that you step over to get into the shower. A minimum of two inches is usually the standard building code requirement in the United States. There are three types of thresholds: high, low and none.

Low thresholds are the most popular option. They typically look better in modern spaces and are also beneficial for those looking for easy accessibility. If you prefer a thicker base, go with a high threshold. Zero thresholds provide a more seamless look, making the bathroom appear larger. They’re also Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant and typically used if assistance is needed with a wheelchair or a walker. Some walk-in showers have a low threshold, but true walk-in showers have zero threshold and are flush with the floor with no barrier to trip over.

Door Type and Position
The door type is an important consideration. For small or tight spaces, consider a sliding shower door. For large, open bathrooms, a hinged door is a good option. A pivot shower door can swing in or out. If you want the interior of the shower or bathtub to feel more spacious, consider a curved door.

Most shower doors offer a reversible door position, meaning that they can be installed on the left or right according to what works best in your space.

Hardware Finish
There are more options than ever when it comes to hardware finishes. On the trim of the shower door, door handles, grab bars, etc, you can choose from chrome, brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, matte black, brushed gold and more.

Materials, Shapes and Colors

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Shower kits and enclosures come in a variety of materials, shapes and colors. We’ll explore the various options.

Materials
The majority of shower kits and enclosures are solid surface. There are many benefits to this material: easy installation, low maintenance, a seamless appearance — and they’re waterproof. They can also be refinished or repaired later if needed. Acrylic or fiberglass is an option as well as Vikrell. Vikrell is more expensive, but it’s a strong surface that’s less likely to stain or scratch.

Shapes
Shower kits or enclosures come in a variety of shapes. The vast majority of showers are rectangular, but there are also square, neo-angle or round enclosures.

Colors
Shower enclosures are usually white, but you can also choose from off-white, black or gray. There’s a wide selection of enclosures that have a pattern that runs through the middle of the shower walls and the shower base. Choose from patterns that look like subway tile, mosaic, checkerboard and more.

Other Considerations

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As you’re shopping for your shower kit or enclosure, there are a few other options or enhancements to keep in mind.

Grab Bars
If you need extra assistance getting in and out of the shower or tub, consider a grab bar. Match the finish of your grab bar with the trim in your shower or faucet.

Shower Seats
Many kits and enclosures come with a seat that’s either fixed or can be folded into the wall.

Shelves and Ledges
Many shower kits and enclosures include shower shelves to place toiletries on and a foot ledge for easy shaving.

Shower Heads and Faucets
For a cohesive look, add a shower head and faucet that match the shower door hardware. Some shower kits will include the faucet.

Installation

There are two ways to install a shower kit or enclosure: using adhesive or a direct-to-stud method. If you’re going with adhesive, then glue will be used to attach the panels directly to the walls. Direct-to-stud installation anchors to framing. Any existing drywall has to be removed.

Lowe’s also provides bathroom installation services. For more information, visit your local Lowe’s and speak to one of our associates.

Related Tags:
  • Bathroom
  • Plumbing
How to Choose the Best Shower Stall or Enclosure (2025)

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