How do you find out the best swing for your shower door during a bathroom makeover?
Choosing your shower door’s swing is crucial in a bathroom reno, with safety and practical use being key. According to rules in Australia, a hinged shower door must swing outward for emergency reasons. If someone falls, they won’t be trapped by a door swinging in. If you’re thinking about a door that swings in, make sure your shower is big enough. This is so it won’t get in the way, or cause slips. The best direction mainly depends on what you like, the size of your space, and how you use your shower.
Key Takeaways
- Outward swinging shower doors are required by laws to keep things safe.
- Inward-swinging shower doors could lead to safety and space problems.
- It’s easier to walk in and out of showers with doors that swing out.
- Outward swinging doors are also easier to look after as you don’t need to step inside to clean them.
- For outward swinging doors, you’ll need a shower drip rail to manage water.
Pros and Cons of Outwards Swinging Shower Doors
When looking at shower door options, it’s key to know the good and bad of outward swinging doors. They are liked for being easy to use and safe.
Advantages of Outwards Swinging Shower Doors
Outwards swinging shower doors make getting in and out simple. Coding laws from March 14, 2022, demand these doors to open outward for safety. This is to make sure someone inside can be reached quickly in an emergency, cutting down on the delay for help.
Another plus is that these doors don’t take up space inside the shower. This is great because it reduces the risk of slipping or falling compared to inward swinging doors. It’s also easier to clean and maintain doors that swing outward since they open fully without restrictions.
Disadvantages of Outwards Swinging Shower Doors
However, outwards swinging shower doors can lead to water spilling onto the floor. A shower drip rail can lessen this problem but it’s still something to think about.
Also, these doors need enough space to swing out, which might be tough in small bathrooms. This makes it important to check the bathroom size and any potential blockers before deciding on an outward swinging door.
If you’re thinking of redoing your bathroom, knowing these advantages and disadvantages is useful. For more help on picking the right shower door, look at expert advice or talk to professionals to see various options and meet safety rules.
Pros and Cons of Inwards Swinging Shower Doors
Choosing the direction your shower door swings is a big decision for your bathroom. Inwards swinging doors have their good points and not-so-good points. This choice affects your bathroom’s look and functionality.
Advantages of Inwards Swinging Shower Doors
Inwards swinging doors are great for keeping your bathroom looking sleek. They help with airflow inside the shower. These doors don’t stick out, so they keep your bathroom looking tidy.
Also, if your bathroom is tight on space, inward swinging doors are a smart pick. They won’t bump into other bathroom fixtures. This way, your small bathroom stays more walkable.
Disadvantages of Inwards Swinging Shower Doors
But, these doors have downsides too. Safety codes say shower doors should swing outwards. The reason? If there’s an emergency, doors that swing inwards can block help from getting in. Plus, the inward swing can clash with your shower’s interior setup.
And, there’s the risk of water escaping the shower. If seals aren’t perfect, you’ll have to deal with leaks and maintenance. Choosing your shower door’s swing direction should be based on your bathroom layout and what you like. But, knowing these pros and cons is key.
Building Codes and Safety Regulations for Shower Doors
Fulfilling building codes and applying safety regulations for shower doors are key to a secure, working bathroom. In Australia, these rules require a hinged shower door to open outwards, ensuring a pathway that’s at least 22 inches wide. This design helps if someone needs help or quick access is needed.
Following these building codes means carefully designing your bathroom. Doors that swing out can’t hit vanities, toilets, or towel bars. The smallest size allowed for a full bathroom in Australia is about 2.5 square meters. Larger ones can be between 4 and 5 square meters, guaranteeing space for both safety and comfort.
In showers without curbs or those with uneven ceilings, detailed door planning is vital. You need at least 0.9 x 0.9 meters space in an enclosed shower for safe use. Powder rooms should be no smaller than 1.2 x 1.2 meters. Following these space guidelines helps avoid door issues or blockages.
Bathrooms also must have towel rails about 0.9 meters off the ground, meeting safety rules. Meeting accessibility standards is crucial too, with features like grab bars and roll-in showers for those with disabilities. By sticking to these building codes and safety regulations for shower doors, you ensure your bathroom is safe, accessible, and convenient for everyone.
In Australia, a toilet needs space of 1.6 x 0.900 meters according to bathroom code. Bathrooms also need proper ventilation and lighting, following specific guidelines for the best function and safety.
As design trends change, the choices for hinged shower doors grow. Eighty percent attach to walls and 20% have pivot hinges. Frameless doors are popular for their sleek look and easy upkeep. Hence, it’s critical to include the right safety regulations for shower doors for a bathroom that’s both safe and stylish.
Should Shower Doors Swing In or Out?
Choosing if should shower doors swing in or out is key for homeowners. Credits to Australian safety rules, 95% of hinged shower doors need to swing out. This allows for quick help during accidents. The door swinging out makes getting in and out easy without reducing shower space.
Doors that swing outward are easier to keep up. Maintenance like cleaning and fixing is easier from the outside. Yet, they can let water escape onto the floor, a problem in tight bathrooms. To fix this, you can add things like shower drip rails.
Doors that swing inward look neat and may help air move better. However, they are a safety issue as they can block the way out during emergencies and increase the risk of slipping. This type of door is rare due to these problems and how much space they take. You also need to make sure there’s enough room for the door to open inward without hitting anything.
Finding the best shower door swing means looking at safety rules, the space you have, and what you want. Even though doors that swing out are usually better for safety and use, it’s vital to weigh up all factors to make your shower safe and easy to use.
Choosing the Best Swing Direction for Your Shower Door
Choosing the best swing direction for your shower door matters a lot. It’s important to think about safety and space. Doors that swing outwards are preferred for safety. They make getting out in an emergency easier. Knowing these details helps make your bathroom both safe and functional.
How much space you have in your bathroom is key when picking a shower door swing. If your bathroom is big, an outward-swinging door works well because it needs space outside the shower. For smaller bathrooms, an inward-swinging door might be better. It’s crucial to check your bathroom’s layout to see what’s best for you.
Sometimes, doors that can swing both ways are an option. They need enough room, about 70-80 cm, to swing freely. This offers a good mix of safety and ease of use. But, remember to think about how a door swings might cause water to splash out or if the bathroom space is too tight for certain doors. The goal is to balance safety, function, and rules.
FAQ
Q: Should shower doors swing in or out?
A: In Australia, shower doors must swing outwards due to the building codes. This design ensures someone can enter in an emergency. Outwards swinging doors are also easier to access and safer.
Q: What are the advantages of outwards swinging shower doors?
A: Doors that swing outwards make entering and leaving the shower easy. They don’t take up space inside the shower. This design helps in an emergency and makes cleaning simpler. Yet, your bathroom must have enough space to avoid water spillage.
Q: What are the disadvantages of outwards swinging shower doors?
A: The main issue with doors that swing outwards is water dripping onto the floor. But, proper seals can fix this problem. Also, they need enough room in the bathroom to open fully.
Q: What are the advantages of inwards swinging shower doors?
A: Doors that swing inwards look sleek and can improve airflow. They are good when there’s no room for a door to swing outwards.
Q: What are the disadvantages of inwards swinging shower doors?
A: However, inward swinging doors don’t meet Australian safety rules. They can block the way in an emergency. These doors need room to open inside the shower and can leak water. They might also hit shower controls or fixtures.
Q: What are the building codes and safety regulations for shower doors in Australia?
A: The laws in Australia say hinged shower doors must open outwards for safety. Doors must also allow at least 22 inches for getting through. They should open and close without hitting anything in the bathroom.
Q: How do I determine the best swing direction for my shower door?
A: Choose your shower door’s swing by looking at safety, access, and bathroom size. Outward swinging doors are usually better for meeting safety standards. But, inward swinging might work if you have the right bathroom setup.
Q: What factors should I consider when choosing the right shower door swing?
A: Think about safety, how the door works in your space, and what you prefer. Check for any water leak risks or obstacles. Asking a professional can help make sure your choice fits safety guidelines and works well.
Source Links
- Should a glass shower door swing in or out? – Replacement Glass
- Hinged shower door vs sliding: Everything you need to know in one article – ABC Glass and Mirror
- Shower doors: A definitive guide – Durovin Bathrooms
- Residential bathroom code requirements: Australia wants you to follow – McColl Cabinets
- Which way should your shower door open? – QS Supplies
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