Frameless and minimum-frame glass doors are trendy choices for most homeowners. The designs also appeal to commercial building owners and offer many advantages. Frameless glass doors are aesthetic, timeless, durable, and low-maintenance.
Thickness is one of the factors to consider when planning to install a frameless door. Dimensions vary from building to building and door to door. Location (exterior, interior, shower enclosure), entry size, and door type (pivot, sliding, stacking, hinged) also influence the thickness.
Determining Thickness for Frameless Glass Doors
You can upgrade your bathroom shower door, backyard patio door, front entrance, or other interior and exterior doors. Each entry has unique thickness requirements and specifications. The front entrance may need to be heavier, thicker, and sturdier, while interior glass doors can be thinner and more delicate. Consider the following when determining the best thickness:
1. Size & Weight
A larger opening will need more or larger glass panels to cover the space. Larger glass panes tend to be thicker to maintain structural integrity. Most buildings come with specific recommendations for door sizes, weights, and thicknesses. The support structure dimensions will influence the thickness of the door. Some door types also require thicker or thinner glass.
2. Strength Requirements
Exterior doors are often thicker and sturdier because they face a higher likelihood of bumps and knocks. Shower doors should also be thick enough to withstand sudden bumps if someone slips. You can install lighter options for delicate openings that don’t involve heavy-duty operations, such as interior rooms.
3. Décor & Aesthetics
The interior décor you’re creating can influence the door thickness you choose. Some glass doors feature elaborate patterns and stamping, such as etching or textures. To incorporate such details, manufacturers use thicker glass. Other room décors call for subtle, delicate pivot doors, so you can go for thinner glass. Thick and thin glass doors work in specific openings and setups because they complement the aesthetics.
Standard Thickness Options vs. Custom Thickness
Frameless glass doors come in standard thicknesses you can order from a local shop. The options and dimensions vary depending on the type of door. Standard frameless glass shower doors come in two thickness options: 3/8 and 1/2 inches. Exterior doors can use thicker 1/2-inch or 5/8-inch panels. Your door installer will help you determine whether the standard sizes are ideal for your openings. If the standard sizes don’t fit, get a custom cut.
Many property owners request custom thicknesses for their interior and exterior doors. Each building and opening has unique requirements. You can use glass doors of different thicknesses in different openings. Custom thickness involves measuring your space/opening and reviewing the door design to fabricate the best glass door for the building. The professionals will come into your home or business to examine the entryway and determine the ideal thickness.
Why Glass Door Thickness Matters
Determining glass thickness is a decision you must make when installing frameless doors. Each region has specific limits for the minimum and maximum height and weight. Thicker doors will weigh more than thinner designs. If you have a tall opening, the thickest option may exceed the weight requirements. Finding the best thickness for your frameless door has many other implications, as follows:
Safety & Security
Glass door thickness is tied to the strength and resilience of the panel. If you have doors that need enhanced protection from burglars and other threats, a thicker door design should be your target.
Cost & Installation
Thicker doors use more glass and inherently cost more because of the extra material. The installation may also require additional structures, such as recessed mounts in the ceiling. If the design and other aspects are unchanged, you’ll spend more to install a thicker glass door unit.
Door Type/Style
Some entryways call for lightweight doors that are easy to swing open and close. Hinged bifold doors shouldn’t be too heavy, especially when using a frameless design. Sliding and stacking glass doors also tend to be light. Use the right thickness and weight for the design you choose.
Working With a Glass Door Installer
If you plan to install frameless glass doors, find a reputable company specializing in frameless and minimal frame installations. Working with an expert is the best way to determine the ideal size and thickness for your preferred style. Professional installers will measure your openings, find the right materials and fabricate the door according to your specifications.
