There is often a high level of confusion around the difference between semi-frameless and frameless shower screens. At On The Ball Bathrooms, we’re here to be the heroes you need by breaking down the key differences between the two, along with the pros and cons of each style.

While a shower screen is primarily functional, it can also be a strong design statement. With that in mind, let’s start by looking at the most commonly used shower screen in our bathroom renovations across Perth, Western Australia.

A small note

Below is an example of a classic framed shower screen alongside a semi-frameless shower screen, both installed in the same bathroom renovation we completed. Wherever possible, we recommend avoiding fully framed shower screens. They tend to visually close in the space, making the bathroom feel smaller—almost as if a solid wall has been built inside the room.

Semi-frameless shower screens truly offer the best of both worlds. While they do feature a frame, it is far less conspicuous than that of a fully framed shower screen. The slimline frame is typical of contemporary design and integrates seamlessly into modern bathroom spaces.

Made with 6mm clear toughened glass, semi-frameless shower screens are durable enough to withstand the rigours of daily use. They are also easier to keep clean, as the reduced framing leaves fewer areas for dirt and grime to build up.

These screens are braced around the perimeter—typically at the top and bottom—rather than around every individual panel, as seen in fully framed shower screens. This allows more light to flow through the space, helping the bathroom feel more open and inviting.

Visually appealing and affordable, semi-frameless shower screens continue to be the most popular choice. Making a strong option to colour the trim, adding an extra design feature and allowing the shower screen to become a standout element, as shown below.

Pros:

• Cost Effective
• Easier To Keep Clean
• Better For Tiling and Concealing Tile Fall
• Toughen Glass
• Match Into Colour Scheme

Cons:

• More parts for installation
• Glass is not as heavy on feel, which some people don’t like
• Can see trim which hides some eye-level features

Frameless Shower Screens

Frameless shower screens feature no framing around the edges and minimal rubber seals, creating fewer places for dirt and grime to build up. Made from 10mm toughened glass, these screens can also be customised with frosted finishes or decorative designs, thanks to the clean, blank-canvas look of the glass.

While frameless shower screens are more expensive than other shower screen options, their clean lines and crystal-clear glass help open up the bathroom, making the space feel larger, lighter, and more modern.

Pros:

• Sleek, Modern Look
• Easier To Keep Clean
• Show off tile work in the shower
• Let’s in natural light
• Minimalistic so that it doesn’t detract from your bathroom design
• Fewer moving parts

Cons:

• More expensive than framed showers, around 50% more.
• The glass is extremely heavy and hard to work with.
• Almost no room for error on floor tiling and high falls.

No Door Option

For someone who wants no moving parts, the no door screen is an option. Often super tight or not the best for retaining water, this option is reserved for a client who really doesn’t want a swinging door in their space.

Proof is in the pudding (Verdict)

I use this expression as the simplest way to explain my advice. Like most things in life, cost plays a major role in the decisions we make. That said, I strongly recommend avoiding fully framed shower screens wherever possible—they consistently present issues and tend to darken and close in a bathroom.

Semi-frameless shower screens, on the other hand, offer a fantastic balance of style and value. They deliver a great look, come in a wide range of designs, and provide almost everything a frameless shower screen offers—without the premium price tag. If you’re looking to elevate your bathroom with a glass shower screen but want to keep costs under control, a semi-frameless option is well worth considering.

After all, this is a bathroom you’ll use and look at every day. If you know it will bother you not having the option you truly want, then it’s better not to compromise.

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It’s important to note that all our advice is general in nature, and every bathroom is unique. For the best results, always consult a qualified local tradesperson.

At On the Ball Bathrooms, we value your feedback—so feel free to leave us a comment below. If you’re in Perth, Western Australia, and looking for a bathroom renovation quote, contact us on 0419 964 678 or email us at info@ontheballbathrooms.com.au.

This article was written by James McLoughlin, co-founder of On the Ball Bathrooms. With over 20 years of experience and more than 3,000 completed renovation projects, James brings a wealth of knowledge to every project. We hope you’ve found these tips helpful—or at the very least, enjoyed some beautiful renovation inspiration 🙂.