A bathroom renovation involves many trades, and the order matters. Planning your shower screen bathroom renovation well saves time and avoids costly mistakes. The main rule is simple: the screen goes in near the end. This guide explains the timing and the usual order of trades.
Shower screen bathroom renovation: why the glass goes in late
Shower screens are made to measure. The glass is cut to fit your finished walls, tiles and floor. If you measure too early, small changes to tiles or waterproofing can throw off the sizes. As a result, the glass may not fit. Therefore, the safest time to measure is after the tiling is finished.
The usual order of trades in a shower screen bathroom renovation
Every project is different. However, a typical shower screen bathroom renovation follows this order:
- Demolition: the old fixtures, tiles and screen are removed.
- Plumbing and electrical rough-in: pipes and wiring are moved or updated.
- Framing and wall sheeting: walls are repaired and prepared.
- Waterproofing: a licensed waterproofer seals the wet areas.
- Tiling: walls and floors are tiled, then grouted.
- Painting: walls and ceilings are finished.
- Fit-off: taps, vanity, toilet and fittings are installed.
- Shower screen measure and install: the glass is measured, made and fitted.
- Final clean and sealing: silicone is applied and the bathroom is cleaned.
When to measure for your shower screen
In any shower screen bathroom renovation, book the measure once the tiles, grout and waterproofing are complete. In particular, wait until the tiles are fixed and the final wall and floor positions are set. At this point, the installer can take exact measurements. Because custom glass takes time to make, book the measure early enough to avoid delays.
Allow time for glass to be made
Custom glass is not ready on the same day. After measuring, the glass is cut, toughened and prepared. This takes time. For this reason, plan your shower screen bathroom renovation with a gap between the measure and the install. Ask your installer for a realistic lead time when you book.
Waterproofing and Australian Standards
Waterproofing is one of the most important steps. In Australia, wet areas must be waterproofed to the relevant standards. This is a job for a licensed waterproofer. You can find standards information at Standards Australia. You can also check licensing details with the Victorian Building Authority.
Shower screens also use safety glass. Toughened glass is designed to meet standards such as AS 1288 and AS/NZS 2208.
Plan your shower screen bathroom renovation style early
Although the screen goes in last, decide on the style early. The choice can affect tiling, wall details and the shower layout. For example, a frameless screen needs solid wall support and a clean tile finish. Our guide to frameless vs semi-frameless shower screens helps you decide. You can also explore custom shower screens for unusual layouts.
Common shower screen bathroom renovation mistakes to avoid
- Measuring before the tiling is finished.
- Forgetting to allow for glass lead time.
- Choosing hardware finishes after the fittings are installed.
- Leaving the screen decision until the last day.
- Not checking that the walls and floor are level and finished.
Replacing an old screen without a full renovation
You do not need a full renovation to upgrade your screen. A simple swap can refresh a tired bathroom. See our shower screen replacement and shower screen installation services. For budget planning, read our guide to shower screen cost in Geelong.
For general renovation advice, visit Consumer Affairs Victoria. When you are ready, contact ProGlass Screens for a free quote.
Coordinating the trades
Good communication keeps a renovation on track. Share the plan with every trade, and tell your installer when the tiling will finish. Also confirm access on install day, so the glass can be carried in safely.
Frequently asked questions
When should I order a shower screen during a renovation?
Order it after the tiling and waterproofing are finished and the walls are ready to measure. Allow time for the glass to be made.
Can I measure the shower screen before tiling?
We do not recommend it. Tiles change the final dimensions, so measuring early can lead to glass that does not fit.
How long does custom shower glass take to make?
It varies. Custom glass is cut and toughened after measuring, so it needs lead time. Ask your installer when you book.
Who installs the shower screen in a renovation?
A glazier or shower screen specialist usually does it, after the tiler, painter and plumber have finished.
Do I need a licensed waterproofer?
Yes. Waterproofing wet areas is specialist work and should be done by a licensed professional.
