5 COSTLY MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN BUYING CUSTOM SHOWER SCREENS IN MELBOURNE

Flexi Showers
Aug 28
4 min read

Investing in a custom shower screen is an excellent way to elevate your bathroom's style, enhance functionality, and add value to your home.

However, many homeowners in Melbourne make avoidable mistakes during the selection and installation process, which can lead to unnecessary expenses, frustration, or less-than-perfect results.

This blog highlights five common errors people make when buying custom shower screens in Melbourne, and how you can avoid them. Plus, we'll show how the experienced team at Flexi Showers can guide you through the entire process to ensure your experience is smooth and hassle-free.

Choosing Style Over Function

It’s easy to get enchanted by the aesthetic appeal of frameless shower screens, sleek black hardware, or designer glass patterns. However, prioritising style over function can be a costly mistake.

For instance, frameless shower screens are beautiful and minimalistic, but they may not be the best option for high-traffic family bathrooms due to their reduced structural support.

Consider these key factors when deciding on your shower screen style:

Usage needs: High-use or family bathrooms may benefit from semi-frameless options that provide added durability.
Bathroom layout: Sliding doors work better for tight spaces, while pivot doors may fit larger bathrooms.

At Flexi Showers, we believe you shouldn’t have to compromise.

Our expert team can help you find a design that perfectly balances form and function so your custom shower screen meets your aesthetic preferences and practical needs.

Skipping Waterproofing Checks Before Installation

Waterproofing is a non-negotiable aspect of any bathroom installation. Overlooking this step can result in water leaks, structural damage, and heavy repair costs in the long run. Some homeowners assume the waterproofing in their bathroom is sufficient, only to realise too late that it’s poorly implemented or outdated.

Before installing your custom shower screen, ensure your bathroom complies with waterproofing regulations. Flexi Showers collaborates with seasoned professionals to verify waterproofing at every stage, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Not Asking for Laminated or Toughened Glass

One of the most critical aspects of a shower screen is the type of glass used. Some buyers unknowingly choose options that don’t meet Australian safety standards, which can be potentially hazardous.

For optimal results, your screen should use toughened or laminated glass.

Toughened safety glass is:

Stronger: It’s up to five times stronger than standard glass.
Safe: If broken, it shatters into small fragments, reducing the risk of injury.
Compliant: Toughened or laminated glass is mandatory for shower screens under Australian standards.

Laminated Shower Screen glass is:

Laminated glass consists of two glass layers, bonded with a plastic interlayer.
Provides enhanced shatter-resistance and safety.
Upon impact, glass adheres to the interlayer.
Safe: Reduces the risk of injury from sharp shards.
Compliant: Toughened or laminated glass is mandatory for shower screens under Australian standards.

For more on glass types in your shower screen - check our Terminology page

Rest assured, all shower screens from Flexi Showers are made from high-quality, toughened safety or laminated glass and fully compliant with local regulations, offering you peace of mind.

Hiring Non-Specialised Shower Screen Installers

A great custom shower screen is only as good as its installation.

Many people make the mistake of hiring general contractors or inexperienced installers to save costs, only to face issues like improperly sealed screens, water leaks, or off-centre doors.

Just a snapshots of why hiring professional shower screen installers matters:

They understand the unique design and structural requirements of shower screens.
They ensure precise measurements and flawless fitting.
They handle unexpected challenges during installation, such as uneven surfaces.

The team at Flexi Showers brings over 45 years of experience in the Melbourne region, giving you the confidence of expert workmanship and complete customer satisfaction.

Overlooking Warranties, Lead Times, or Service Coverage

Last-minute surprises, such as unexpected delays or lack of after-sale support, can turn an exciting bathroom upgrade into a stressful ordeal.

Some homeowners don’t ask the right questions about warranties, lead times, or service coverage before committing to a purchase.

Here’s how to avoid this mistake:

Warranties: Always check if your shower screen comes with a guarantee that covers both materials and workmanship.
Lead Times: Confirm delivery and installation timelines to ensure they align with your renovation schedule.
After-sale Service: Choose a provider that offers post-installation support and maintenance advice.
Your Shower Screen Delivery: Is there an extra delivery charge for your shower screen or is the delivery (by specialised trucks and drivers) included?

At Flexi Showers, we back every installation with a 12-month warranty and provide detailed timelines to eliminate surprises.

Plus, our Melbourne-based team is always available for support long after the installation is complete.

frameless shower screen melbourne wall to wall

Avoid Costly Mistakes with Flexi Showers

Upgrading your bathroom with a custom shower screen is a rewarding investment, but only if done right. By avoiding the mistakes outlined above, you’ll save time, money, and stress while achieving the perfect result for your bathroom.

With over four decades of experience, Flexi Showers is Melbourne’s trusted name for high-quality shower screens and professional installation. From frameless to semi-frameless designs, our solutions combine style, functionality, and safety to transform your bathroom into a personal retreat.