When choosing a window for your shower, it’s important to consider factors that balance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The experts at NorthShield Windows and Doors have compiled a list of our recommended window styles for showers so you can make an informed decision.
Before we dive in there are a few things that homeowners should consider before selecting a shower window. Privacy is a key concern, as the window should prevent visibility into the shower area while still allowing natural light. Moisture resistance is crucial due to the high humidity and direct exposure to water in the shower, necessitating materials that prevent water damage and mould growth.
Recommended Window Styles for Showers
Awning Windows
Explore our collection of awning windows
Awning windows are typically mounted higher up on walls, making them perfect for showers where privacy and natural light are desired without compromising on functionality. These windows hinge at the top and open outward, allowing you to keep them open even during light rain, which is a considerable advantage for ventilation in a steamy shower environment.
Pros
- Provides excellent privacy
- Allows for ventilation even in wet conditions
- Less likely to allow direct water to splash from the shower
Cons
- Requires external space to open
- Higher placement might not be suitable for all shower designs
Casement Windows
Explore our catalogue of casement windows
Casement windows are ideal for shower areas because they offer superior ventilation capabilities which help to manage humidity and reduce condensation. They are operated by cranks that allow the window to open outward along the vertical edge, providing a full opening for air circulation. This is particularly beneficial in showers, where air quality and moisture control are critical.
Pros
- Maximizes airflow
- Easy to operate in hard-to-reach places
- Can be equipped with frosted glass for privacy
Cons
- Requires external space to open
- Could be susceptible to water ingress from the shower if not properly sealed
Round Windows & Octagon Windows
Please note: NorthShield can provide custom round window installations through our custom-shaped windows offering. We can design and install the perfect round window for your shower area.
Round & octagon windows offer a striking visual appeal, making them a captivating choice for shower areas that aim to combine functionality with a distinctive style. These windows can be custom-sized to fit various dimensions, making them adaptable to different bathroom layouts. Round windows bring a softness, and octagon windows ignite architectural interest, enhancing both the interior and exterior aesthetic of the home.
Pros
- Architecturally interesting, creating a focal point
- Can be designed with frosted or textured glass for privacy while still allowing natural light.
Cons
- May be more expensive due to their non-standard shape;
- Require specialized installation to ensure a perfect fit and proper waterproofing
Transom Windows
Please note: NorthShield can provide custom transom window installations through our custom-shaped windows offering. Call our team for custom window designs for the perfect transom shower window.
Transom windows are a popular choice for showers, particularly for their placement options and the unique architectural interest they bring. Typically installed above eye level, transom windows preserve privacy while allowing natural light to brighten the shower area. This makes them especially suitable for bathrooms where wall space is limited or where additional privacy is needed without compromising on light.
Pros
- Enhances privacy due to high placement
- Allows for natural light without visibility into the space
- Does not compromise wall space for shower fixtures or tiling
Cons
- Does not offer ventilation, which could be a drawback in very humid bathrooms
- Limited to being a static design element without the functionality of opening for air circulation.
Fixed Casement Windows
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Fixed casement windows do not open, however, they provide an abundance of natural light that will flood your bathroom. The seal around these windows is tighter, which significantly reduces the chances of external water damage and improves thermal insulation. This can be particularly beneficial in maintaining a bathroom’s temperature and preventing the chill that can come from less insulated windows.
Please note: If you choose fixed casement windows for your shower it is important to ensure you have a proper bathroom ventilation system to prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
Pros
- Excellent insulation properties
- No risk of external water intrusion
- Maintains privacy without needing additional treatments.
Cons
- Does not allow for any ventilation, which can be a drawback in very humid bathroom environments.
Hopper Windows
Explore our selection of hopper windows
Hopper windows, which open inward from the top, are a compact option for smaller bathroom spaces. They can be installed higher up on the wall to enhance privacy while still providing the option to open for ventilation. This style is particularly effective in showers where space is at a premium but airflow is needed.
Pros
- Great for small spaces
- Offers ventilation without compromising much on privacy
- Can be installed high on the wall to avoid direct water exposure
Cons
- If not placed high enough, water from the shower can enter the sill and potentially damage the window over time
- Inward opening can interfere with bathroom fixtures if space is limited.
NorthShield Windows and Doors provides an array of window options that meet these specific needs of shower installations. They offer specialized features such as double or triple glazing, which not only improve moisture resistance but also enhance insulation, keeping the bathroom environment comfortable and energy-efficient. With a variety of styles including casement, awning, fixed, round, transom and more, NorthShield allows homeowners to choose solutions that perfectly fit their design preferences and practical requirements.