How to Remodel a Bathroom With a Window in the Shower (Without Flooding Your Life)
Let’s cut to the chase: bathroom windows are great… until they’re awkwardly planted in your shower. Suddenly, you’re juggling privacy, water damage, and the eternal battle of “should this curtain even exist?” If you’re staring at that window wondering how to turn it from a headache into a highlight, welcome to the club. We’ve tackled this exact puzzle at Verified Builders—Denver’s go-to home remodeling company—and trust us, it’s doable. Let’s break it down like we’re swapping tips over coffee.
Contents
- 1 Step 1: Assess the Situation (Or, “Why Is This Window Here?!”)
- 2 Step 2: Waterproof Like Your Shower’s Life Depends on It (Because It Does)
- 3 Step 3: Window Material Showdown (Spoiler: Frosted Glass Wins)
- 4 Step 4: Design Hacks to Make That Window Shine
- 5 Step 5: Work With Pros Who Get It (Hint: That’s Us)
- 6 Common Mistakes to Avoid (Unless You Love Regret)
- 7 FAQs: Your Burning Questions, Answered
- 8 Wrapping Up: Let’s Turn That Window Woes Into Wins
Step 1: Assess the Situation (Or, “Why Is This Window Here?!”)
First things first: not all shower windows are created equal. Some are charming vintage features; others feel like a prank from the 1970s. Before swinging a sledgehammer, ask:
- Is the window functional? Does it open for ventilation, or is it just… there?
- What’s the water damage situation? Peeling paint or soft drywall? Yikes.
- Privacy level: Are you flashing the neighbors or hidden by foggy glass?
At Verified Builders, we’ve seen it all—from perfectly placed transom windows to panes that might as well be a splash zone. The goal here is to balance practicality and style without sacrificing your sanity.
Step 2: Waterproof Like Your Shower’s Life Depends on It (Because It Does)
Water and windows mix like oil and glitter—messy and impossible to fully clean up. Here’s how to waterproof like a pro:
- Swap drywall for cement board: Drywall + moisture = mold city. Cement board is your new BFF.
- Slope the sill outward: Prevent puddling by angling the window ledge away from the shower.
- Sealants are non-negotiable: Use 100% silicone around the frame. No shortcuts.
FYI, we’ve rescued enough DIY disasters to know: skipping waterproofing is like trusting a paper umbrella in a hurricane. Don’t be that person.
Step 3: Window Material Showdown (Spoiler: Frosted Glass Wins)
What’s the best material for a shower window? Let’s settle this:
Material | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Frosted Glass | Privacy + light diffusion | Limited design options |
Glass Block | Retro charm, ultra-durable | Poor ventilation, $$$ |
Vinyl Shutters | Budget-friendly, customizable | Can warp over time |
Tempered Glass | Safety first, sleek look | Requires frequent cleaning |
We’re team frosted glass at Verified Builders—it’s low-maintenance and lets in light without putting your shower routine on display. But if you’re craving a bold statement, tempered glass with a custom tint could scream “luxury home renovation.”
Step 4: Design Hacks to Make That Window Shine
Okay, let’s get creative. A shower window doesn’t have to be an eyesore. Try these tricks:
- Frame it with tile: Use subway tiles or Moroccan patterns to turn the window into a focal point.
- Add built-in shelving: Perfect for shampoo bottles or that candle you’ll never light.
- Go bold with plants: Hang moisture-loving ferns or succulents nearby (RIP, fake greenery).
Pro tip: If you’re pairing this project with interior remodeling elsewhere, keep the design cohesive. Nothing says “hot mess” like a modern shower next to a floral wallpaper explosion.
Step 5: Work With Pros Who Get It (Hint: That’s Us)
Look, we get it—DIY is tempting. But when water damage is on the line, calling Verified Builders (your friendly Denver design-build construction crew) saves time, money, and marital harmony. Here’s why:
- We’ve seen every window scenario: Rusty frames, awkward heights, you name it.
- Full-service solutions: From basement contractors to home addition contractors, we handle it all.
- No “near me” panic Googling: We’re local, licensed, and weirdly passionate about shower windows.
Plus, if you’re planning a whole home remodeling project, we’ll make sure your bathroom doesn’t clash with your new kitchen remodeling services. Consistency is key, folks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid (Unless You Love Regret)
Don’t let enthusiasm override logic. Here’s what not to do:
- Ignore ventilation: A window that doesn’t open + steamy showers = mold’s dream home.
- Use cheap materials: That $20 vinyl curtain will look tragic in 6 months.
- Forget about window treatments: Even frosted glass needs a backup plan (blinds, anyone?).
We once met a client who tried using Saran Wrap as a “temporary” solution. Let’s just say… it wasn’t.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions, Answered
Q: Can I just move the window instead of dealing with it?
A: Sure—if you’ve got the budget. Relocating a window involves structural changes, permits, and a custom home remodeling pro. We’ve done it, but it’s not always worth the hassle.
Q: What’s the cost range for this project?
A: Between $1,500 (basic updates) to $10k+ (full home restoration with high-end materials). Let’s chat about your goals!
Q: Will this affect my home’s resale value?
A: A well-executed shower window adds charm and functionality. A leaky, poorly designed one? Not so much.
Q: Can I match this with other luxury home renovations?
A: Absolutely. We’ll coordinate finishes, lighting, and layouts so your bathroom doesn’t feel like a random IKEA aisle.
Wrapping Up: Let’s Turn That Window Woes Into Wins
Remodeling a bathroom with a shower window isn’t just possible—it’s a chance to flex your design muscles. Whether you’re craving a spa-like retreat or a quirky vintage vibe, the key is balancing water resistance, privacy, and style. And hey, if you’d rather leave the waterproofing panic to someone else, Verified Builders is here to help.
Ready to ditch the duct tape solutions? Hit us up for whole home remodeling, interior remodeling, or just that pesky shower window. Because life’s too short for bad bathrooms. 😉
—Verified Builders: Denver’s Favorite Home Renovation Company (Yes, We’re Biased)