Tiny Bathroom? Clever DIY Shower Doors to Save Space

Looking to maximize your small bathroom with a new shower door? With limited square footage, every inch counts when designing a functional space. The good news is that you don't need an expensive renovation or contractor to install space-saving shower doors. There are clever DIY options that can make over your bathroom without requiring major construction. Follow these tutorials to install doors that fold inward, slide discreetly into pockets, or even repurpose salvaged materials. With some basic skills and a bit of creativity, you can build the perfect custom shower solution for your tiny bath.

When dealing with a cramped bathroom, the shower is often a problematic area. Standard swinging doors take up precious room and restrict mobility with their wide arc. But you have attractive alternatives to open up floor space and create a spa-like oasis, no matter how small your bathroom dimensions. Read on for DIY shower door ideas to save space and upgrade the look of your tiny bath.

Install a Space-Saving Sliding Barn Door

Barn doors are a top trend in home decor for their rustic style and space-saving design. By sliding along a wall-mounted rail, they don't require any clearance space to open. Bring these benefits into your bathroom by installing a DIY sliding barn door for your shower. Construction is straightforward, requiring basic carpentry skills.

Start by measuring the shower opening width and height. Cut a piece of plywood to size, with at least 1/2 inch clearance on all sides. Adhere waterproof laminate to the wood front and back. Once sealed, coat with polyurethane for protection. Install the barn door hardware kit as directed, mounting the rail parallel to the shower opening. Hang the plywood door, testing the slide. Finally, seal edges with silicone caulk.

Creative Touches

Personalize your sliding barn door shower with fun finishes:

• Whitewash or stain the wood for rustic flair.
• Use chalkboard paint to create a writable surface.
• Attach reclaimed wood slices or tiles for texture and style.

Add coordinating knobs or pulls to finish off your DIY sliding barn door. This style folds discreetly out of the way, saving precious square footage in a tiny bath.

Repurpose a Door into a Shower Entrance

Put an old door to new use by repurposing it as a shower entrance. Look for solid wood or glass doors at salvage shops, antique stores, or even your own basement. French doors, louvered doors, and architectural salvage units are all candidates for a makeover. Use your creativity!

Start by taking precise measurements and cutting the door down to size. This allows it to fit the shower opening. Prep and seal the surface, adding waterproofing if needed. If using a glass door, attach a shower-safe film or paint the back for privacy. For wood, waterproof thoroughly before hanging.

Custom Touches

Personalize your repurposed door with these creative finishes:

• Stencil a nature motif onto a glass shower door.
• Decorate a wood door with mosaic tiles or pebbles.
• Paint or whitewash a vintage door for a shabby chic look.

Hang your upcycled door using a standard double-sided barn door hardware kit. The style possibilities are endless! Salvaged doors add character while saving space in a tiny bath.

Convert to a Pocket Shower Door

For a seamless look that maximizes space, install a pocket door for your shower. Pocket doors slide sideways into a compartment in the wall, disappearing completely when open. While not a true DIY project, you can add the framing and hardware yourself. Then have a glass company fabricate the sliding shower door.

Start by building a pocket frame following standard methods. Consult a tutorial for precise instructions. Install pocket door hardware per the manufacturer's guide. Ensure the track is level and the sliding mechanism operates smoothly. Custom order a glass shower door to fit, sealing it securely into the pocket. The disappearing door opens up floor space beautifully!

Tips for Success

Keep these tips in mind for a successful pocket door conversion:

• Construct backings carefully to support weight.
• Waterproof pocket framing and sliding hardware well.
• Allow room for recessed handles and knobs on glass door.

Though not strictly DIY, converting to a pocket shower door maximizes space elegantly. The clean, built-in look conceals the door when open.

Install Bifold Shower Doors

Bifold doors provide an attractive space-saving solution for tight shower openings. Bifolds are hinged panels that fold into each other when open. Installation is a DIY-friendly project if you're handy with tools.

Choose bifold shower doors sized for a custom fit. Measure your opening width at top, middle, and bottom to calculate glass sizing. Install top and bottom tracks following the kit instructions. Hang door panels and test operation. Finally, seal edges and hardware seamlessly.

Details for Success

Pay close attention to these details for proper bifold installation:

• Align tracks perfectly straight and level.
• Adjust spring tension so panels glide smoothly.
• Use clear silicone for clean, waterproof seals.

Well-installed bifold shower doors make the most of tight spaces. When opened, they fold in beautifully without invading the room.

Small square footage doesn't have to limit your shower designs. Sliding barn doors, glass pocket doors, upcycled salvage, and space-saving bifolds all deliver form and function. Your tiny bath can offer a relaxing spa-like retreat with the right mix of creativity and customization. Use these tutorials to install shower doors that save space in style. Soon you'll have a bathroom oasis tailored to your unique needs and style.