DIY Shower Enclosures vs. Professional Shower Installations: Which Is Best?

May 17, 2023

Finding the best shower for your bathroom depends on your functional needs as well as your stylistic needs. There are different shower wall panel designs, layouts like walk-in showers or shower and tub combos, and fixtures to choose from to fully customize your shower. You also have the option of buying a shower enclosure and installing it yourself or hiring a professional to remodel your current bath or shower.

What is a shower enclosure?

Glass shower enclosure installed in a corner with a rain fall shower head.A shower enclosure is a glass enclosure for a walk-in shower that requires installation by the buyer. Shower enclosures can come with a walk-in shower pan base and are great for small bathrooms. They can be installed in small corners or in odd angles if the enclosure sizing is suited to the measurements. With the purchase of a shower enclosure, you would obtain installation instructions and the option to install it yourself. Otherwise, you could hire someone to install your enclosure for you. While a shower enclosure can be a seemingly simple solution, let’s run through the ins and outs of buying a prefabricated shower versus having one professionally installed to help you in your remodel process.

Prefabricated Shower Enclosure

  • Enclosure for pre-built space made of glass
  • Option of a fiberglass or acrylic shower pan
  • Do-it-yourself installation method
  • Does not include all shower parts, i.e., drain

Customizing Your Shower

Shower enclosures are purchased as a shower kit complete with installation instructions, specification details, and warranty information. As mentioned, your shower enclosure can come with or without a shower pan base and is typically bought for a smaller space. Because of the prefabricated nature, there are less design options available to you with a shower enclosure. You are choosing between options like frosted or clear glass, sliding or hinged door closures, and size. Rather than remodeling your shower fixed with accessories in one sweep, you are left to figure out other features later.

A custom, professionally installed acrylic walk-in shower gives you the freedom to customize your wall surrounds using features like laser-etched technology to create the look of tiles and acrylic shower seats built right into the wall. With a prefabricated shower enclosure, you are not receiving the same level of customizability and might not have the ability to add features in later. A professional shower installer will be able to install grab bars, shower seats, foot pedestals, and built-in shelves to make your bathing experience as functional as possible. Wall surround colors and designs give your shower a unique touch and using the same company to remodel the entire space ensures a seamless project from start to finish.

Installing Your Shower

Shower enclosures are prefabricated shower stalls made out of glass with an optional shower base made out of fiberglass or acrylic. Purchasing a shower enclosure allows you to pick the shower you want and get it delivered in parts. The downside of this is the do-it-yourself installation job. Unless you are skilled in bathroom remodeling, we would advise against this method, as there are many things that could go wrong with a DIY project. Installing a shower enclosure on your own requires precise measurement, knowledge of the existing or new plumbing in the bathroom, and other parts that may not be included in the kit, like a shower drain. Knowing what you are working with is crucial to the success of your project, as cutting corners may cause damage or add extra cost.

Considering the company you choose, professional shower installation with a trusted remodeling company can ease your project concerns. A shower remodeling company will replace your existing bath or shower with a new shower, and some companies can be done in one day. You won’t have to worry about needing tools, extra help, or cleanup with a professional company. Plus, getting your shower remodeled professionally comes with the ability to add accessories like grab bars, shower seats, and other functional features.

Choosing a professional shower remodel

There are tons of options for you when it comes to remodeling your shower. A shower enclosure, full shower remodel, tub to shower conversion, tub to shower combo are all available to you as you decide what to do with your bathroom. Based on the pros and cons, we ultimately recommend hiring a professional to start and finish your project.

Professional Shower RemodelWalk in shower with built in shelves and grab bars.

  • Customized to your space
  • Installed and cleaned up by professionals depending on the company
  • Options like grab bars, shower seats, built-in shelves available
  • One-day installation available depending on company

At the end of the day, a professional shower installation team will bring greater success to your bathroom project than you doing it yourself with a shower enclosure. West Shore Home® is the expert in home remodeling with company-trained installers and one-day installations. We can take your tub or shower and transform it into a beautiful, customized, acrylic bathing space for you and your family. Avoiding added costs and potential do-it-yourself mishaps, hiring professionals for the job will also put your mind at ease. Contact us today to get started on your shower remodel project!