What is a shower seal?
A shower seal is a strip usually made of rubber, plastic, or silicone that’s attached to the edge of a shower door or screen. The main purpose of a shower seal is to prevent water from leaking out of the shower enclosure, minimising damage and the risk of a slipping hazard. A shower hinge alone cannot do this job, as it’s designed to provide movement and not to block water. That’s why it’s important to invest in a shower seal alongside it to create a fully watertight shower.
Types of shower door seals
There are various types of shower door seals available, designed to fit different parts of the shower enclosure and prevent water leakage. Some seals attach at the bottom of the door, while others fit vertically along the sides. The type of shower seal you need will depend on the shower’s design and the thickness of the glass. We will discuss each type and its uses in more detail below to help you find the perfect option to meet your needs.
Bubble seal
A PVC bubble seal is used to create a watertight barrier between the shower door and the frame or adjacent glass panel. Its soft, tubular shape compresses slightly when the door closes, making it ideal for filling uneven gaps that rigid seals can't cover and preventing drips at door edges on 8–10 mm glass.
Bottom Rail Seal
A bottom rail seal is designed to clip securely onto the bottom edge of sliding or hinged shower doors, forming a barrier that channels water back into the shower tray. Bottom rail seals are ideal for preventing leaks along the base of the door, especially where water tends to pool. These seals are commonly used with 8–10 mm glass panels, helping to keep bathroom floors dry and safe.
Jamb Seal
A jamb seal is a vertical strip, often a H-shaped or angle-shaped design, fitted to the side of the shower door where it meets a wall or another panel. It forms a watertight seal along the edge, helping to prevent leaks from the sides. Jamb seals are suitable for 6 to 12 mm glass and are best used for sealing hinged doors or panels that close against a frame.
Magnetic Seal
A magnetic shower seal features built-in magnets that allow two glass shower doors to close tightly together, forming a secure, leak-proof seal. Ideal for hinged or double-door setups, these seals eliminate gaps between doors and help to maintain a clean, seamless look while keeping water inside.
Seal & Wipe
A seal and wipe combines a rigid mounting profile with a flexible wiping lip that directs water back into the enclosure, making it an ideal choice for minimal, framed shower designs. It's typically framed in aluminium, used on 4–6 mm glass, and is perfect for when both structural support and effective water control are needed.
Things to consider when choosing your shower seal
It’s important to consider several factors when choosing your shower seal to ensure a proper fit and effective water protection. Selecting the right seal not only improves the performance of your shower but also extends the life of the enclosure by preventing leaks and damage. Below we will discuss everything you should consider when choosing your shower seal.
Glass thickness
The thickness of your shower screen glass should be taken into consideration to ensure you choose a compatible seal. This can range between 4 to 12mm, so it’s essential to take accurate measures, including any raised edges, to ensure you have the correct sizing.
Seal positioning
Consider where the seal will be positioned when making your decision. Different shower configurations may require seals in various locations to prevent water leakage and so it’s important to assess your shower setup to determine the most effective placement for the seal, ensuring it remains watertight with no leaks.
Length
Once you’ve determined the glass thickness and seal positioning, you need to measure to determine the required length for seal accuracy. Carefully measure the length of the glass edge where the seal will be applied. After doing so, cut the shower seal to the correct length, making sure it fits snugly without gaps to maintain an effective water barrier.
Common shower seal installation issues to avoid
While installing a shower seal can be a fairly straightforward task, some common installation mistakes can occur. By avoiding these, you can ensure you have a watertight seal, preventing leakage and increasing its longevity.
Incorrect measurements
Taking inaccurate measurements of your shower glass thickness, length, or the exact position for the seal often leads to buying a seal that doesn’t fit properly. For example, if you underestimate the glass thickness or ignore raised edges, this can cause the seal to be too tight or too loose, resulting in gaps that allow water to leak out and reduce its effectiveness.
Using the wrong seal type
Not all shower seals are universal, and there are different types designed for varying glass thicknesses, door styles, and shower configurations. Using a seal that’s incompatible with your glass or shower setup might result in it not gripping the glass properly or creating a tight water barrier, leading to premature wear and poor sealing performance.
Improper seal placement
The placement of the shower seal is critical to its function, and installing the seal in the wrong position or orientation can compromise its ability to block water effectively. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for placement and orientation to ensure a proper functioning seal.
Not securing the seal properly
If the seal is loose, uneven, or poorly aligned, it can shift or come off over time, creating openings for water to escape. Even a correctly sized and positioned seal can fail if it’s not firmly attached. To prevent this, ensure the proper cleaning of the glass is done beforehand, it is aligned carefully, and a secure attachment is created to maintain the seal’s effectiveness.
Discover shower seals at IronmongeryDirect
This guide has helped you find the perfect shower seal for your shower, exploring the different shower seal types, as well as installation issues to avoid during the process. Find the perfect shower seal for you with our wide range of shower seals available from IronmongeryDirect.
FAQs
How do I know what shower seal I need?
To identify what shower seal you need, ensure you measure your shower glass thickness, check your door type, and determine where the seal will be installed. You should also consider your shower’s configuration and how hot the water flows to choose the right seal and prevent leaks.
How often should shower seals be replaced?
Shower seals typically last between 1 to 3 years, depending on usage, water quality, and maintenance. Over time, seals can become brittle, cracked, or warped, reducing their effectiveness and causing leaks. Regularly inspect your shower seals for signs of wear and damage and replace them if you notice any gaps or discolouration.
Can I reseal my own shower?
Yes, you can reseal a shower yourself. This is a straightforward DIY task if you have the right tools and materials. However, if you don’t feel confident enough to do it yourself, we recommend hiring a professional to ensure a proper seal.
Do all shower doors require seals?
Most shower doors benefit from seals to prevent water from escaping, especially frameless or semi-frameless glass doors that lack built-in barriers. Some fully framed doors might have integrated water barriers that reduce the need for additional seals. Check your specific door design and manufacturer recommendations to determine if extra sealing is necessary.
What materials are shower seals made from?
Shower seals are made from flexible materials like PVC, silicone, or rubber. PVC is popular due to its durability and affordability, while silicone and rubber offer superior flexibility and resistance to mould and mildew.
How do I clean and maintain my shower seals?
To keep your shower seals in great condition, you should clean them regularly with a mild soap or vinegar solution and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools, as this can damage the material.