When it comes to shower enclosures, the focus is often on design, finishes, or technical features. However, even the most advanced product may fail to reach its full potential if the shower enclosure is not installed correctly. In our experience, we have seen that many problems stem from seemingly minor mistakes made on-site. From taking measurements to installing the gaskets, every detail contributes to the final result.
- Taking measurements leaves no room for approximation
- Ordering the shower enclosure too early
- Choosing the wrong product
- Never take the instructions for granted
- Components must be installed in the correct position
- Apply silicone on the outside!
- Seals deserve the utmost attention
- When installing the shower enclosure, the final inspection is part of the job
- Proper installation enhances the product
Taking measurements leaves no room for approximation
One of the most common mistakes is certainly taking incorrect measurements. It may seem like a simple task, but it doesn’t take much to compromise the success of the project.
Final dimensions should only be measured once the shower enclosure is complete and all dimensions can be accurately verified. Relying on approximate measurements or those taken during an early stage of construction exposes you to the risk of incompatibilities that could require subsequent corrective work.
Proper design always begins with an accurate survey and a careful assessment of the available space.
Ordering the Shower Enclosure Too Early
The desire to meet construction deadlines sometimes leads to ordering the shower enclosure ahead of schedule. This decision can prove problematic.
Before the shower pan and wall tiles are installed, it is impossible to know exactly what the final result will look like. The thickness of the tiles, the amount of adhesive used, and how deeply the shower pan is recessed can significantly alter the measurements estimated during the design phase.
In these situations, you may end up ordering a shower enclosure that is too large for the available space on the shower pan. For this reason, we always recommend waiting until the surfaces are fully finished before placing your final order.
Choosing the Wrong Product
This is an issue that must be considered before installing a shower enclosure: not all bathrooms have the same characteristics, and not all shower enclosures meet the same needs.
A choice based solely on aesthetics can lead to problems during daily use. It is necessary to carefully evaluate the available space, the type of door opening, accessibility, and the presence of any obstacles in the immediate vicinity.
A solution that looks perfect on paper may turn out to be impractical once installed. Conversely, a product chosen with the user’s needs in mind ensures that it functions in a way that aligns with the project’s actual requirements.
Never Take Instructions for Granted
The installer’s experience is certainly important, but it cannot replace reading the assembly instructions.
In fact, every manufacturer develops specific construction systems, with different components and adjustments. Assuming that all shower enclosures are assembled the same way is one of the most common mistakes encountered on construction sites.
Taking a few minutes to review the instructions allows you to understand how the product works properly and avoid problems that might only become apparent after weeks or months of use.
At Relax, we’ve also introduced video assembly instructions to streamline the process and make it as simple as possible. Check out the latest instructions published here: https://relaxsrl.com/en/products/download/.
Components must be installed in the correct position
Many issues are not caused by product defects but by simple errors during assembly.
A typical example involves the lower seal, which is sometimes installed on the wrong side of the glass (facing outward). This may seem like a minor detail, but it can compromise the shower enclosure’s ability to contain water within the designated area.
The same principle applies to all other components: each part is designed to perform a specific function and must be positioned exactly as intended by the manufacturer.
Apply Silicone Only to the Outside!
A common mistake still encountered on construction sites involves the incorrect application of silicone. To ensure the shower enclosure functions properly, we recommend applying the sealant exclusively to the exterior of the enclosure, using a transparent, polymer-based neutral silicone. This solution ensures an effective seal without interfering with the natural water drainage intended by the product’s design.
To achieve optimal adhesion, it is important that the surfaces to which the sealant is applied are completely dry and clean. Furthermore, once the silicone application is complete, it is advisable not to move doors or other opening parts for at least 24 hours, so that the product can cure properly and achieve the best performance in terms of adhesion and durability.
Seals Deserve the Utmost Attention
If there’s one element that’s often overlooked when installing a shower enclosure, it’s the seals.
Rough cuts, profiles installed upside down, or cut too short can result in suboptimal water tightness and, in the worst cases, even significant leaks.
In most cases, no complex measures are needed to avoid these problems: simply work with precision, verify the correct orientation of the profiles, and carefully follow the provided instructions.
A properly installed gasket plays a crucial role in the overall performance of the shower enclosure.
When installing a shower enclosure, the final inspection is part of the job
Once the shower enclosure is fully installed, it’s essential to spend a few minutes performing final checks.
The smooth operation of the doors, the alignment of the glass panels, the closing mechanism, and the watertight seal must be carefully checked. This allows you to identify any issues while they are still easy to resolve.
All too often, this step is overlooked due to time constraints, but it is an essential part of ensuring the quality of the installation.
Proper installation enhances the product
The quality of a shower enclosure stems from its design, the choice of materials, and technical innovation. However, the final result also depends to a large extent on how the product is installed.
Accurate measurements, following the instructions, proper installation of components, and attention to detail ensure optimal performance and a longer lifespan.
