DIY Factory Window Shower Door: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Unique and Stylish Addition to Your Bathroom

A shower door can make or break the overall look and feel of your bathroom. That's why, when it's time to replace or upgrade your shower door, many homeowners turn to a DIY project to ensure they get the custom look they're after. One increasingly popular option is to create a shower door using factory window style. Inspired by industrial spaces and lofts, these shower doors add both character and a vintage touch to your bathroom space. In this post, we'll walk you through the process of creating your own DIY factory window shower door, step by step.

Getting Started: Materials and Tools

Before diving into the project, gather the materials and tools you'll need to complete your factory window shower door.

Shower door glass (the dimensions of which will depend on the size of your shower enclosure)

Metal grid or framing

Aluminum, steel, or iron rods (for constructing the window grid)

Glass clips or brackets (to secure the metal grid to the glass)

Silicone adhesive or clear epoxy (for both waterproofing and securing the grid to the glass)

Painter's tape

Measuring tape

Safety goggles

Gloves

A hacksaw (for cutting the metal rods)

A file or sandpaper (for smoothing rough metal edges)

Step 1: Planning the Window Grid Layout

Before building the actual door, you'll need to plan out the layout of the window grid itself. This includes determining the dimensions and spacing of the individual sections, as well as the overall design. Sketch out your desired window grid layout on paper, ensuring that you have accurate measurements of the glass and metal rods. Keep in mind that while you want the window grid to be visually appealing, it also needs to be structurally sound.

Step 2: Cutting the Metal Rods

Once you have your grid design finalized, it's time to cut the metal rods to size. Depending on whether you're using aluminum, steel, or iron rods, you may need to use slightly different techniques. However, a standard hacksaw should suffice for most materials. Wear your safety goggles and gloves during this step to avoid potential injuries, and use a file or sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges after cutting the rods.

Step 3: Assembling the Window Grid

With your metal rods cut to size, it's time to assemble the window grid. Start by laying out all of the pieces on a flat surface and reference your sketch to determine the proper spacing. It can be helpful to use painter's tape to create a grid on your working surface, which will help keep the pieces aligned correctly.

Once the rods are arranged as desired, use the glass clips or brackets to attach each intersection of the metal rods. Ensure that all the connections are secure, as this will provide stability and support for the window grid when it's installed on the shower door glass.

Step 4: Attaching the Window Grid to the Glass

Now that the window grid is assembled, it's time to attach it to the shower door glass. First, clean the glass surface thoroughly, as any dirt or debris could affect the adhesive's bond. Then, apply the silicone adhesive or clear epoxy to the back of the metal grid, focusing on the areas where it will make direct contact with the glass. Carefully position the window grid onto the glass, making sure to align it correctly with your previously determined layout. Press firmly to ensure a strong bond, and allow the adhesive to cure fully according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

With the window grid securely attached to the glass, you're almost done with your DIY factory window shower door project! Apply a bead of silicone adhesive around the edges of the metal grid to create a waterproof seal, helping to prevent any water from seeping behind the grid and causing damage over time. Additionally, if you'd like to add a touch of character to your shower door, consider painting the metal grid and framing to match the rest of your bathroom's fixtures and hardware.

With your new factory window shower door in place, you'll have a unique and stylish addition to your bathroom that reflects both your personal taste and design sensibilities. Plus, the satisfaction that comes from completing a DIY project just can't be beaten. Happy building!