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Diamond Certified Category Report

Contra Costa County – Shower Enclosures

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Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc.

(925) 676-5040
CONTACT

LICENSE 527157

DIAMOND CERTIFIED COMPANY REPORT

Joe Matthews, General Manager

Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc. designs, manufactures, and installs shower enclosures for residential and commercial customers throughout the Bay Area and Sacramento. In addition to installing shower doors that feature a wide variety of glass patterns, metal finishes and hardware… Read more

Key Services

Custom Shower Door & Glass Manufacturing & Installation

AREAS SERVED

Serving the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento including Brentwood, Concord, Danville, Pinole, Walnut Creek,…

Diamond Certified Companies are Rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise.

  • Why this rating is the most accurate.
  • Our editors gather deep company info.
  • Performance is Guaranteed.

Diamond certified companies are top rated and guaranteed

Why Trust Diamond Certified Shower Enclosure Companies Rated Highest in Quality?

Photo: Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc. (

You are the customer. If your goal is to choose a shower enclosure company that will deliver high customer satisfaction and quality, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Diamond Certified shower enclosure contractor. Each has been rated Highest in Quality in the most accurate ratings process anywhere. And you’re always backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. Here’s why the Diamond Certified ratings and certification process will help you find a top-rated shower enclosure company and is unparalleled in its accuracy, rigor and usefulness:

1) Accuracy: All research is performed by live telephone interviews that verify only real customers are surveyed, so you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews.

2) Statistical Reliability: A large random sample of past customers is surveyed on an ongoing basis so the research results you see truly reflect a Diamond Certified company’s top-rated status.

3) Full Disclosure: By clicking the name of a company above you’ll see the exact rating results in charts and read verbatim survey responses as well as researched articles on each qualified company.

4) Guaranteed: Your purchase is backed up with mediation and the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you can choose with confidence.

Click on the name of a Diamond Certified company above to read ratings results, researched articles and verbatim customer survey responses to help you make an informed decision.

More than 200,000 customers of local companies have been interviewed in live telephone calls, and only companies that score Highest in Quality in customer satisfaction–a 90+ on a 100 scale–as well as pass all of the credential-based ratings earn Diamond Certified. By requiring such a high score to qualify, the Diamond Certified program eliminates mediocre and poorly performing companies. Read detailed information about the ratings and certification process.

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DIAMOND CERTIFIED EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS IN THE Contra Costa County – Shower Enclosures CATEGORY

Joe Matthews is a longtime veteran of the shower enclosure industry and general manager of Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc., a Diamond Certified company. He can be reached at (925) 676-5040 or by email.

Joe Matthews

diamond certified contributor profile and expert article

Joe Matthews: A Clear Trajectory

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

CONCORD — Many young people have trouble deciding which career path to pursue, but for Joe Matthews, it was a clear choice. “My father and grandfather were both in the glass business, so I basically followed the family line,” he explains. “As a kid, I would work at the family glass shop after school and during the summer, and later I got into it full time. We handled all aspects of glass fabrication, but the area I enjoyed most was shower doors, which tended to involve more creativity than, say, replacing a broken window. Eventually, I decided I wanted to do shower doors exclusively, and things have progressed from there.”

Today, as general manager of Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc., Joe says his favorite part of his job is his interactions with colleagues and customers alike. “In addition to working alongside our team, I enjoy working with homeowners, designers, architects and contractors. It’s fun and rewarding to collaborate on a design, come up with solutions, and see the project through to completion.”

A resident of Vallejo (where he lives with his wife, Camille), Joe enjoys being situated amidst the diverse Bay Area setting. “We have so much in the Bay Area—any direction you go, there’s something of interest,” he says. “My wife and I like going on little jaunts around the area, whether to the coast, the forest, the wine country or a nearby town to try a new restaurant.” Joe also likes spending time at his mountain cabin, working in his garden, and hanging out with his and Camille’s three grown sons.

In his life and career, Joe espouses the virtue of doing right by others. “I believe karma is a real thing, which is why I always try to treat people the way I’d like to be treated,” he says. “Whenever you’re faced with a decision, whether in your personal life or professional career, I believe it’s important to do the right thing.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Joe says he’d return to an old hobby. “I’d go fishing. I used to fish a lot, but it’s been on the back burner for a long time, so the first thing I’d do is grab a pole and head to a nearby stream.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: Did you play any sports in high school?
A: I played football and pole-vaulted.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Find a nice restaurant and order a bowl of hot soup.

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: Palermos in Vallejo.

Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person?
A: A dog person.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: The Polynesian Islands.

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Design Considerations for a Shower Enclosure

by Joe Matthews, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

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CONCORD — One of the most critical parts of remodeling a bathroom is designing the shower enclosure. Due to the importance of both aesthetic and functional aspects, it’s important to choose a visually appealing design that also serves your specific needs. Fortunately,… Read more

Expert Video Tip

Video: Shower Door Options

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Complete Video Transcription:

CONCORD —   Host, Sarah Rutan: When planning for a new shower enclosure, it’s good to learn the full extent of your design options. Today we’re in… Read more

SELECTED PHOTOS FROM THESE TOP RATED COMPANIES

  • Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc.

  • Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc.

  • Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc.

  • Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc.

  • Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc.

  • Schicker Luxury Shower Doors, Inc.

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INDUSTRY INFORMATION AND RESEARCHED ARTICLES BY THE DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESOURCE

INDUSTRY INFORMATION - Contra Costa County – Shower Enclosures
Related Brands

  • Andersen

  • Marvin

  • Milgard

  • Baldwin

  • Emtek

  • Fleetwood
Popular Brands of Shower Enclosures

Kohler Shower Enclosures
MAAX Collection
MTI Showers
MilUSA Incorporated
Nathan Allan
Neptune Shower Enclosures
Prizma
Showerlux Shower Enclosures
UltraGlas Showers
Vigo Industries
American Standard Shower Enclosures
Aquapeutics
Swanstone
Lasco
Aqua Glass
DreamLine
American Bath Factory
Corian Shower Enclosures
Acquinox Shower Enclosures
American Shower Door
Alumax Showers
Basco Showers
Century Bathworks
Coastal Industries
Contemporary Bath Design
Duschqueen Shower Enclosures
Jacuzzi Shower Enclosures
Kallista Showers

Types of Shower Enclosures & Services Available in Contra Costa County

bathroom shower enclosure installation
glass shower enclosures
tub shower enclosure
curved shower enclosures
tiled shower enclosures
one-piece shower enclosure
solid surface shower enclosure
glass shower units
shower panels
shower surrounds
shower screens
ceramic tile shower enclosure
barrier-free shower enclosure
neo-angle shower enclosures
frameless shower enclosure
shower doors enclosures
corner shower enclosures
shower enclosure for clawfoot tub
round shower enclosure
fiberglass shower enclosures
shower enclosure kits
steam shower enclosure
custom shower enclosure
shower stall enclosures
acrylic shower enclosures
walk-in shower enclosure
glass block shower enclosure
doorless shower enclosure

Cities Served

Alamo
Antioch
Bay Point
Bethel Island
Blackhawk
Brentwood
Briones
Byron
Canyon
Clayton
Clyde
Concord
Cowell
Crockett
Danville
Diablo
Discovery Bay
El Cerrito
El Sobrante
Hercules
Hilltop Mall
Kensington
Knightsen
Lafayette
Los Medanos
Maltby
Martinez
Moraga
North Richmond
Oakley
Orinda
Pacheco
Pinole
Pittsburg
Pleasant Hill
Point Richmond
Port Chicago
Port Costa
Rheem Valley
Richmond
Rodeo
San Pablo
San Ramon
Tara Hills
Vine Hill
Walnut Creek
Walnut Heights
West Pittsburg

Zip Codes Served

94506
94507
94509
94511
94513
94514
94516
94517
94518
94519
94520
94521
94522
94523
94524
94525
94526
94527
94528
94530
94531
94547
94548
94549
94553
94556
94561
94563
94564
94565
94569
94570
94572
94575
94582
94583
94595
94596
94597
94598
94801
94802
94803
94804
94805
94806
94807
94808
94820
94850

Consumer Agencies and Associations for Shower Enclosure Installers

American Water Works Association (AWWA) (http://www.awwa.org/)
Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) (www.accredit-it.org)
California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) (www.dca.ca.gov)
International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) (www.ifda.com)…

American Water Works Association (AWWA) (http://www.awwa.org/)
Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) (www.accredit-it.org)
California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) (www.dca.ca.gov)
International Furnishings and Design Association (IFDA) (www.ifda.com)
International Interior Design Association (IIDA) (www.iida.org)
National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) (http://www.nari.org/)
National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) (www.nkba.org)
Northern California Chapter of the National Kitchen and Bath Association (NOCANKBA) (www.nocankba.org)
Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) (www.phccweb.org)

Know What You Want
Researching and Knowing What You Want Before Selecting a Shower Enclosure Company in Contra Costa County

Many factors should be considered before selecting a shower enclosure company in Contra Costa County, including the smaller cities of Clyde, Cowell, Crockett and Diablo, that will meet your needs the most successfully. Write down everything that you’re searching for before you begin your research. Consider the following questions before making your final selection of a shower enclosure company.

  1. Do I want a Diamond Certified company that is rated best in quality and backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee?
  2. What is my budget for the shower enclosure?
  3. What personal and professional characteristics would I like my Contra Costa County shower enclosure company to have? (These may include good communication skills, honesty, reliability, cleanliness, etc.)
  4. What type of shower enclosure am I most interested in for my shower project?
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What To Ask In Person
Ask These Questions When Speaking in Person With a Contra Costa county Shower Enclosure Company

The next step is to interview shower enclosure companies in Contra Costa County, including the larger cities of San Ramon, Danville, Brentwood, Martinez and Pleasant Hill. As you interview shower enclosure compnaies in Contra Costa County you may want to ask the following questions.

  1. How many shower enclosures has your company completed in Contra Costa County?
  2. What types of warranties and guarantees are available on your shower enclosures? What is covered with any offered warranties?
  3. How does your shower enclosure company price new shower enclosure installation?
  4. Does your shower enclosure company have a current business license to sell shower enclosures?
  5. Can you give me a list of references that I may contact?
  6. How long should it take for your shower enclosure contractor to complete the installation of my shower enclosure?
  7. Does your shower enclosure company carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance for your shower enclosure crew?
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  • What To Ask References
    What to Ask Previous Customers of a Shower Enclosure Company in Contra Costa County

    It’s best to choose a Diamond Certified shower enclosure compoany because all certified companies have passed an in-depth ratings process that most other companies can’t pass. If you want quality from a shower enclosure company in Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area, you can have confidence choosing a Diamond Certified company. Diamond Certified reports are available online for all certified companies. And you’ll never be fooled by fake reviews. That’s because all research is performed in live telephone interviews of actual customers.

    If you can’t find a Diamond Certified shower enclosure company within reach, you’ll have to do some research on your own. If you do, it’s wise to call some references provided by your shower enclosure company. Keep in mind, though, that references provided to you by the shower enclosure company are not equal in value to the large random sample of customers surveyed during the Diamond Certified ratings process. That’s because references given to customers from companies are cherry-picked instead of randomly selected from all their customers. So the shower enclosure company will likely give you a few customers to call that they know are satisfied.

    If you do call references on your own, specifically ask for a list of the company’s 10 most recent customers. This will help avoid them giving you the names of only customers they know were satisfied.

    1. Were you satisfied with the service from the shower enclosure company?
    2. Were there any unexpected costs for your shower enclosure? If so, what?
    3. Did the shower enclosure company keep you up to date on the status of your project?
    4. If you live in a smaller area such as Alamo, Bay Point, Bethel Island and Blackhawk, did you have to pay extra for their travel expenses to your home?
    5. If you need a new shower enclosure in the future, will you consider going back to this shower enclosure company again?
    6. What type of shower enclosure did you purchase from this shower enclosure company?
    7. Would you recommend this shower enclosure company to your family and friends?
    8. Did the shower enclosure company finish the job on time? Did they clean up after completing the job? Did they show up on time?
    9. Did you feel like the shower enclosure company charged a fair price for the quality of the work?
    10. Did the shower enclosure representative seem receptive to your input?
    11. Did the shower enclosure company provide answers to your questions to your satisfaction?
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  • Review Your Options
    Deciding on the Best Shower Enclosure Company in Contra Costa County

    The Diamond Certified symbol has been awarded to companies that scored Highest in Quality in an accurate ratings process.

    Before deciding on the best shower enclosure company in Contra Costa County for you, it’s important to consider the following questions.

    1. What is my time frame for this shower enclosure project: when do I need to have it accomplished?
    2. Is my shower enclosure company of choice well-established in the community with a good reputation?
    3. Does my shower enclosure company of choice have good references that I have checked?
    4. Is my shower enclosure company of choice charging a reasonable price for quality shower enclosures and service?
    5. Which shower enclosure companies in Contra Costa County, including the larger cities of Concord, Richmond, Antioch, Walnut Creek and Pittsburg, offer the better warranty for the price?
    6. Which shower enclosure company has payment options that work the best with my financial situation?
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  • How To Work With
    Reviewing Your Contract with a Shower Enclosure Company in Contra Costa County

    After you have found a Contra Costa County shower enclosure company that you can trust, you will have peace of mind as you get ready for your shower enclosure project. Once you’ve hired a shower enclosure company in Contra Costa County, including the smaller cities of Discovery Bay, El Cerrito, El Sobrante and Hercules, you will have an initial meeting between you and the company’s representative to discuss your requirements and the shower enclosure company’s qualifications. An estimate of the project and its feasibility is drawn out. Furthermore, you will discuss the budget and design of the shower enclosure project as well as any restrictions and permissions that will be needed. Use the notes that you have taken so you can accurately describe any concerns that you have. Be as detailed as possible and don’t be in a rush. It is as important for you to hear their suggestions and observations as it is for them to hear you. If you don’t understand something, ask for an explanation.

    It is important for you to completely comprehend the shower enclosure project and what it entails. The shower enclosure company will provide you with an estimate based on the specifications. He will also offer choices. Once the final contract has been drawn, the next step will be applying for permits if they are needed. Last of all, the shower enclosure project and financing process will begin.

    Be sure to get all estimates in writing before any work begins. The estimate should include an itemized list of the cost of supplies and the labor. Don’t ever sign a blank estimate.

    How to Get the Most Benefit from a Shower Enclosure Company
    When you feel satisfied with the information you have received from your Contra Costa County shower enclosure company, you are ready to sign the contract. Be sure that they have a phone number where you can be reached at all times. Once the contract is drawn up, it should be signed by both parties: you and the shower enclosure company’s representative. If any sub-contractors will be involved, they should sign the contract as well. The contract should protect the interests of both you and the shower enclosure company. Expect the shower enclosure company to stay within the estimate. However, if the actual cost exceeds the original amount of the estimate, they must get your approval before moving ahead.

    You contract should include the following:

    • A clear, concise, and complete description of the project, including start and completion dates. It should also include who will be responsible for each aspect of the project.
    • Warranties should be written and the length of time as well as limitations should be covered. Warranties should cover materials and workmanship, and names and addresses of the warrantor. This may include the contractor, manufacturer, and distributor.
    • How “change orders” will be handled. Any changes or additions to the project should be written up in the contract so that the conditions for change are pre-determined. Furthermore, the contract should list how and when payment will be made for adjustments.
    • Any oral promises made.
    • Company’s name, physical address, mailing address and phone.
    • The estimate or quote of the project.
    • A payment schedule as well as the terms for the contractor, subcontractor(s) and suppliers.
    • Who will be responsible for obtaining necessary permits (this is usually the contractor).
    • Detailed materials list: product, size, color, type, model, and brand name. Any additional or alternate materials that may be used if necessary should also be listed.

    Getting Your House Ready for Your Contra Costa County Shower Enclosure Project
    Professional shower enclosure companies are able to handle the very small to very large aspects of their work. However, there are some things that you can do to prepare for them and to make their progress in your shower enclosure work go more smoothly. Doing these things may even cut down on their labor costs and can keep your home and belongings from being damaged.

    Keep your pets and children away from the area. Your shower enclosure company will be focused on your project and should not have to watch out for your pets or children at any time. This not only prevents accidents and injury but also any expense that comes from accidents that may happen because of children and pets being in the way.

    Remove any furniture or movable items from the area. Before they begin work on your shower enclosure job, remove all of the objects that may be in the way.

    Provide parking space and room for their work vehicles to maneuver. Shower enclosure companies may have large vehicles that require more space than average. Contact your shower enclosure company before they begin building and ask them how many parking spaces they need and how much room they need for oversized vehicles. It is also helpful to walk through the area with your shower enclosure company’s representative so any hazards or clearance issues can be pointed out before the actual work begins.

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  • Be a Good Customer
    Keys to Being a Good Shower Enclosure Company’s Customer

    It’s the shower enclosure company’s responsibility put in quality shower enclosures using the best possible installation techniques. But you play a big part in the success of your shower enclosure project, too. Here are a few simple steps you can take to be a good customer when hiring a Contra Costa County shower enclosure company.

    • Be clear and upfront with the shower enclosure company. Let them know what you want from your shower enclosure project, the long-term outcome you’re expecting and specific ways they can satisfy your expectations.
    • Be sure your service representative has a phone number where they can reach you at all times while they’re installing your shower enclosure. The work will move along more smoothly if your shower enclosure company can reach you for any necessary updates, questions or work authorizations.
    • When your contractor contacts you, return calls promptly to keep the shower enclosure company on schedule.
    • Pay for the shower enclosure work promptly.
    • Remember, a friendly smile goes a long way!
    • Before you hire a shower enclosure company in Contra Costa County, restate your expectations and goals, and reiterate to the shower enclosure company’s representative your understanding of the agreement. Most problems with local shower enclosure companies occur because of a breakdown in communication. By being clear about your expectations and theirs, you can avoid most conflicts.
    • Ask your shower enclosure company if you should call to check on the progress or if he will call you with updates.

    Why would you want to be a good customer? Shower enclosure companies in Contra Costa County appreciate customers who are straightforward, honest and easy to work with. Your good customer behavior sets the tone from your end and creates an environment conducive to a good relationship. Things may very well go smoother and any problems may be more easily resolved.

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Check The Work
Check the Contra Costa County Enclosure Company’s Work with the Written Invoice

When the shower enclosure is safely installed and the work is completed, your shower enclosure contractor is required to give you a written invoice. This must include:

  • The name and physical address of the shower enclosure company
  • The total shower enclosure cost, including the amount charged for labor, if any
  • A list of all work performed, including the warranty
  • An itemized list of all merchandise purchased or included
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Written Warranties
Be Sure to Get Written Warranties from Your Local Contra Costa County Shower Enclosure Company

Most good shower enclosure companies will offer some type of warranty on the shower enclosure work. Before the shower enclosure contractor leaves, confirm any warranties offered by the shower enclosure company in Contra Costa County, including the larger cities of San Ramon, Danville, Brentwood, Martinez and Pleasant Hill. All details of the warranty should be provided to you in writing. The written warranty document must detail the following:

  • The shower enclosure company’s name and physical address
  • How long the warranty is valid, and whether it expires on a specific day or if it is prorated.
  • If the tile warranty coverage is transferrable to the new owner in the event that you sell the home or building in which the shower enclosure has been installed.
  • What the warranty covers. This should include whether the shower enclosure company will replace or repair faulty shower enclosures or give you a refund. Any exclusions must be explicitly stated.
  • Your responsibility in the case of a shower enclosure problem and what you need to do in order to redeem the warranty.
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Top 10 Requests
Most Popular Contra Costa County Shower Enclosure Services

The top 10 requests for shower enclosure companies in Contra Costa County are listed below.

Steam Shower Enclosures
Steam shower enclosures are showers that are built to accumulate steam and heat.

Round Shower Enclosures
Round shower enclosures are shower enclosures that are round adding an architectural element to the shower.

Glass Shower Enclosures
Glass shower enclosures are shower enclosures that are made of glass.

Doorless Shower Enclosures
Doorless shower enclosures are showers without doors. These are showers that you “walk in” but  the showers are partially enclosed.

Frameless Shower Enclosures
Frameless shower enclosures are usually glass enclosures that are not blocked by any frame.

Tiled Shower Enclosures
Tiled shower enclosures are tiled around. This is usually the most common and economical choice for showers.

Glass Block Shower Enclosures
Glass block shower enclosures are contemporary and clean looking shower enclosures. They provide the look of glass but increase privacy by obscuring the interior of the shower.

Ceramic Tile Shower Enclosures
Ceramic tile shower enclosures are shower enclosures that have ceramic tile. Ceramic tile gives you many choices for decorative accents and designs.

Neo-Angle Shower Enclosures
Neo-angle shower enclosures are diamond shaped (neo angled) and have 3 glass sides and 2 walls. These are used for save space by using the corner for a shower.

Corner Shower Enclosures
Corner shower enclosures are shower enclosures put in the corner of a room. These are usually used to save space.

Top 10 Brand Requests for Shower Enclosures
Many brands are on the market for shower enclosures. Following is a list of popular shower enclosure brands that have had great success and a good reputation.

MTI Showers

Jacuzzi Shower Enclosures

Neptune Shower Enclosures

Kallista Showers

Corian Shower Enclosures

American Standard Shower Enclosures

Showerlux Shower Enclosures

Acquinox Shower Enclosures

Century Bathworks

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Glossary Of Terms
Glossary of Terms for Shower Enclosure Companies

annealed glass
Annealed glass is very brittle and can be used for windows and other objects; however, it is not used for shower enclosures for safety measures.

buttress
Buttresses separate bathtubs and showers. Oftentimes, shower seats are installed between on buttress walls.

clear glass
Clear glass is glass that is transparent or see-through. Clear glass is sometimes used for shower doors.
…

annealed glass
Annealed glass is very brittle and can be used for windows and other objects; however, it is not used for shower enclosures for safety measures.

buttress
Buttresses separate bathtubs and showers. Oftentimes, shower seats are installed between on buttress walls.

clear glass
Clear glass is glass that is transparent or see-through. Clear glass is sometimes used for shower doors.
flat polish
Flat polish is glass that has a large flat glass surface that has been ground to a flat polish. This is sometimes used on glass shower door enclosures.

glass clips
Glass clips are used in shower enclosures to secure the panels to the base of the shower. Shower glass clips come in a variety of colors, metals, sizes and shapes.

Also known as: shower glass clips

hinge plate
Hinge plates area plate made of metal that are attached to the hinges of shower doors.

Also known as: hinge plates, hinge door

inline panel
Inline panel is glass that is tempered and runs straight  or in a line with the shower door.

Also known as: inline shower panels

laminated glass
Laminated glass is made by putting layers of glass together to make the glass stronger. Laminated glass is a popular choice for shower doors because of its strength and safety properties.

mildew resistant silicone
Mildew resistant silicone is added to keep mold from growing in shower enclosures.

mitered corners
Mitered corners are corners that have been mitered to a 45 degree cut on a return panel. These are popular design features in some shower enclosures.

Also known as: mitered corner

neo angle shower
Neo angle shower has two or more shower glass panels with a door. Two of the panels must have a 135 degree angle. Most of the time there are three shower glass panels included in a neo-angle shower.

obscure glass
Obscure glass is glass that is semi-transparent and lets some light through.

patterned glass
Patterned glass is glass that has shapes molded in it for decorative purposes.

pivot door
Pivot doors are shower doors that rotate or pivot rather than swing.

pony wall
Pony wall is a shorter wall that most of the time is around 36 inches high and can also be used to separate tubs from showers.

reflective glass
Reflective glass is glass that reflects back some of the light that hits it.

return panel
Return panel is on the backside of a shower and can be used to separate the tub from the shower. It is tempered.

right angle shower
Right angle shower is an enclosure that has a door with an inline and return panel.

Also known as: right angle showers

shower dam
Shower dam holds the water in the shower stall and keeps it from running out.
shower header Shower headers are installed on top of shower panels and are usually made of metal.

Also known as: shower headers

silk-screened glass
Silk-screened glass is glass that has been silk-screened with decorative images to make it appear that it has been etched or textured.

sliding panels
Sliding panels are panels that move in a bypass door.

Also known as: sliding shower panels

steam bath
Steam baths are shower enclosures that have specialized plumbing systems that create steam.

tempered bug
Tempered bugs are stamps on glass that show it has been tempered. The stamp is etched or may be sand blasted on. Tempered glass is an important feature in shower enclosures.

tempered glass
Tempered glass is about 5 times stronger than annealed glass. It is used for safety in shower doors.

textured glass
Textured glass is glass that is texturized on the surface to create a translucent look.

tinted glass
Tinted glass is glass that has a tint of color in it.

u channel
U channel is a channel that is used in the installation of shower enclosures and is in the shape of a U.

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Frequently Asked Questions
Questions Commonly Asked of Shower Enclosure Installers

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified shower enclosure company? …

Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified shower enclosure company?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a shower enclosure company with confidence by offering a list of top-rated local companies who have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only shower enclosure companies rated Highest in Quality earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee. So you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified shower enclosure company.

Q: Are frameless enclosures better than framed?
A: Many do find frameless enclosures more attractive than framed. Also, a frameless enclosure can raise the value of your home. For beautifully tiled shower walls, you may want to choose a frameless enclosure as it will show off the beautiful tile or marble.
Q: What can I do about hard water stains on my shower glass?
A: Ask your shower enclosure company what they recommend for cleaning your glass shower enclosure. Shower enclosure companies carry shower cleaner and protectors that will repel water and help keep the glass shower enclosure clean and stain free.

Q: How do they make shower enclosures look like painted glass?
A: The painted glass you are seeing is actually silk-screened and melted onto the shower enclosure. It is made of crushed glass and a dye. Because it is melted onto the glass it doesn’t chip off.

Q: Does clear glass need to be cleaned more often than obscure glass?
A: Clear glass may show dirt faster but it doesn’t get dirty faster than other glass. By consistently wiping down your shower every time you use it, you will keep it looking new for years. Ask your shower enclosure company what they recommend for cleaning as there are some special glass cleaners which will help your shower enclosure stay beautiful.

Q: Should I use tempered glass for my shower enclosure?
A: The only way to have a safe glass shower is to use tempered glass. Tempered glass is much stronger than regular glass. It is heated and then cooled so that if it breaks it breaks into very small pieces. This reduces the chance of hurting anyone or causing extreme damage.

Q: Is it normal for the glass in glass shower enclosures to have imperfections?
A: Yes, imperfections can happen in the tempering process. As the glass is heated and cooled, it may get dust or other material on it which may leave a print.

Q: Can frameless shower enclosures leak?
A: If your frameless shower enclosure is installed by a professional shower enclosure company, it should not leak. Good frameless shower enclosures are reliable and operate without leaks even if they are put under rigorous use.

Q: Are there advantages to getting a frameless shower enclosure versus a framed?
A: There are several advantages to a frameless shower enclosure. A frameless door can open either in or out – a framed door will only open outward. Because you are eliminating metal, the shower will feel more open and you will also avoid rust developing on metal. A frameless door actually will last longer also.

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