Choosing between a shower door and a shower cabinet can seem like a small decision, but it can actually make a big difference in both function and style. At Speed Aluminium, we’ve helped homeowners and interior professionals find solutions that work for different bathroom types, from compact en suites to luxury master baths.
The key is understanding what each option offers and how it fits your space, lifestyle and design preferences.
What You Need to Know First
Let’s start by clearing up the basics:
Shower Doors are glass panels (usually sliding, hinged or bi fold) that enclose the shower area. They’re often fixed to tiled walls and floors.
Shower Cabinets, on the other hand, are self contained units. These come with built in panels, trays and often even overhead features like lights or body jets.
Both have their advantages, but they serve different needs. One isn’t universally better than the other it’s about what works for your space.
When Shower Doors Are the Better Fit
Shower doors are a go to option if your bathroom already has a tiled shower area or you’re aiming for a clean, open look. They’re popular for walk in showers and can make a space feel larger.
Why go for shower doors?
- Sleek, modern appearance
- Can be fully customized to fit the space
- Easier to clean and maintain
- Allows more natural light inside the shower area
We often recommend glass doors when the bathroom design already supports it structurally or when minimalism is a design goal.
Why Some Bathrooms Work Better with Cabinets
Shower cabinets are a more “all in one” solution. They’re ideal for bathrooms that lack tiling or waterproofing or where fast installation is a priority. They come with trays, panels and all the seals needed for a contained unit.
Shower cabinets might be better if:
- You’re renovating on a budget
- You want minimal installation hassle
- Your bathroom lacks waterproofing
- You prefer added features like shelves, jets or built in lighting
Some homeowners also prefer cabinets for rental properties or guest bathrooms where function and speed outweigh style.
Design Style: Open vs Boxed In
Design wise, shower doors offer a more premium and minimal finish. They blend into modern tilework and let the wall colors and textures show through.
Shower cabinets, while practical, can sometimes feel bulkier or visually “closed off.” However, newer designs do offer more elegant finishes, especially in glass or frameless styles.
If the look of your bathroom matters just as much as its function, shower doors will likely appeal more.
Space and Fit: What You Should Think About
Space is a big deciding factor. Shower doors can be installed in corner setups or as walk ins, but they do require planning around the layout. Swing doors, for example, need clearance.
Cabinets usually take up more defined space, but they’re compact in terms of setup no need to tile every wall or waterproof every inch.
Ask yourself:
- Is your bathroom spacious or tight?
- Do you have existing plumbing and drainage aligned?
- Are you planning to renovate fully or partially?
Cost and How Easy It Is to Install
Shower doors tend to cost less upfront if your bathroom is already tiled and prepared. The customization and glass quality will affect price.
Shower cabinets may come at a slightly higher initial cost but save you on labor and waterproofing work. They’re easier to install and some even come pre assembled.
Which One Needs Less Work Over Time
Aluminium framed glass doors are surprisingly easy to maintain just wipe down the glass, keep the rollers or hinges clean and check the seals.
Cabinets, depending on material, may need occasional deep cleaning in the corners and fixtures, especially if water builds up over time.
If you prefer easy upkeep and fewer moving parts, glass shower doors win this round.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one size fits all answer here. At Speed Aluminium, we usually recommend:
Shower Doors for homeowners looking for a sleek, open design, with flexibility in layout and long term value. However, Shower Cabinets for quick renovations, smaller bathrooms or rental units where cost, speed and convenience take priority.
Evaluate your bathroom’s size, waterproofing, layout and budget before deciding. And don’t hesitate to get in touch with us, we’re happy to help guide you based on your space.
FAQs
Shower doors especially sliding ones work well in tight spaces since they don’t need extra room to swing open. However, if your bathroom isn’t waterproofed, a shower cabinet may be more practical as it contains water better.
Yes, they work well because they’re fully sealed and help prevent excess moisture from spreading. Just make sure to ventilate the bathroom properly to avoid mold build up over time.
Not ideally, Shower doors usually require tiled or waterproofed walls. Without that, water damage can happen. In such cases, a shower cabinet is safer and quicker to install.
Shower doors typically start lower, around AED 800 to 1,500 depending on size and glass type. Cabinets usually cost more upfront, starting around AED 1,800 but save on extra waterproofing or tile work.
Not if installed properly. A well sealed glass door with quality aluminium framing won’t leak. Cabinets, being self contained, naturally offer better protection against leaks especially in older or untiled bathrooms.
