Shower Screens - FAQs
Do we need a site survey?
Every Shower Screen is different with individual measurements. Sometimes even the simplest design - one that looks great on paper - will need tweaking when we see the location, that's why our estimated prices are 'subject to survey'.
What happens at a site survey?
We check the relevant walls and fittings and whether the design will work effectively. We take detailed measurements and advise you of any adjustments that might be necessary for technical reasons.
Do we need to send a representative to site survey?
We need someone there with the authority to agree and sign for any changes to the original design. It might be your Builder, Architect, Designer or Client. If we need to return to the site because there was no one on hand to finalise the initial survey we will have to make a second survey charge.
Do we need to worry about the standard of the walls?
Absolutely! It is imperative that the Glass Shower Screen is fixed to a solid wall, especially with respect to wall hung doors. If the walls can't take the weight of the glass we'll have to come back to reinstall when the walls have been improved, and that will incur a second installation charge.
Any other wall wories?
Watch those pipes and cables! Our Surveyors cannot see into walls and it is your responsibility to ensure that there is nothing live behind the points where we will be fixing the screen. We use detectors to pinpoint live cables but water pipes are much harder to establish. Aborted installations due to burst water pipes will be charged!
Can the screen be fitted to Glass Wall Cladding?
Yes, ION Frameless Shower Screens are fully compatible with our Glass Wall Cladding. The Glass Wall Cladding provides a perfectly smooth surface for the Shower Screen fitting.
Can we use bathroom tiles?
We wouldn't restrict your choice but you will need to remember that cushion tiles won't provide a flat surface for our glass to fit against. If your client chooses tiles with an uneven surface there will naturally be variation in the thickness of the silicone bond.
Vitreous tiles, granite slabs ans similar attractive but very hard wall coverings are not easy to drill. We generally carry those very expensive, specialist drill bits but will need to make a surcharge of £20.00+vat per hole.
Does it matter if the bathroom isn't finished when you survey?
Yes and No... it doesn't matter if the bathroom isn't finished but it matters a lot if the fixtures and fittings relating to the Shower Enclosure aren't complete. To make them water-tight our screens have to fit exactly - so we can't guess any measurements at all. The shower tray or wet floor area and wall coverings must all be in place.
Are there any exceptions to this?
Just one! If you have nominated a concealed wall channel we can survey as soon as the shower tray and channel are in place. In this case we will deliver the channel to site for fixing, this part of the installation can be done by ourselves or the bathroom installer to our requirements.
Any hints or suggestions with regard to designs?
Try not to make it too complicated. We can cater for almost any requirement, but the more complex the Shower Screen, the more difficult and costly it is to fabricate and fit. Remember, a wall hung door is alsways less expensive than a glass hung door.
Any other design ideas?
Don't forget the Shower Door has to open! Sorry - this seems obvious but often gets overlooked! For safety reasons, we can't produce Shower Enclosures with restricted function. You should also be aware of the easy access - your client shouldn't have to walk around the door to gain access to their shower.
How long do we have to wait for an ION Shower Screen?
We quote 4-6 weeks from survey to installation, except for single fixed panels which can take as little as 2 weeks. If changes are made to designs following the survey then production won't start until we have written agreement.
Can you cope with curves?
Of course - but there are a few things to bear in mind. Bespoke curves are top of the range products and as ever top of the range means expensive! We believe the best things are worth waiting for - so be prepared for a lead in time of about 9-10 weeks.
How do I clean ION Frameless Shower Screens?
We can apply PERMACLEAN glass treatment to our Shower Screens, keeping glass crystal clear. We advise clients to use a soft cloth to wipe away occassional watermarks.
Can I speak to someone for more advice?
Of course! Our Technical Team are always on hand to answer your questions and can contact our Surveyor and Installation Team on site if necessary. We love our Shower Screens and are confident you will too, if you would like to turn your bathroom dreams to a reality contact us today.