Cost estimates only: Any building, material or upgrade figures on this page are indicative, not fixed prices or quotes. Confirm current written costs, specifications and inclusions directly with your builder, supplier or relevant trade.
Overview
Shower screens are one of the most visible finishing elements in any new home bathroom. The difference between a framed, semi-frameless, and fully frameless screen is immediately apparent — and it significantly affects how modern and premium the bathroom feels.
Understanding what your builder includes as standard and the realistic upgrade cost will help you plan your selections appointment and avoid surprises.
Framed Shower Screens (Base Level)
Fully framed shower screens have aluminium frames around all glass edges — top, bottom, and sides. They use thinner glass (typically 4–6mm) supported entirely by the frame. These are the most affordable option and were once standard in Australian new builds.
Today, framed screens look dated compared to semi-frameless and frameless options. They trap soap scum and limescale in the aluminium channels and are harder to clean. Few volume builders include these as standard anymore — most have moved to semi-frameless.
Semi-Frameless Shower Screens
Semi-frameless screens are the current standard inclusion for most volume builders. They feature a minimal aluminium frame — typically a top rail, bottom shower channel, and side fixing — with the glass panels largely unframed. This gives a cleaner appearance than fully framed screens while keeping costs controlled.
Glass thickness is typically 6–8mm toughened safety glass. Hardware (hinges, door handles, channels) is usually chrome or brushed nickel as standard, with other finishes available as upgrades.
Pros
- Cleaner look than fully framed screens
- Typically included as standard — no upgrade cost
- Good range of profile colours available
- Durable and safe (toughened glass)
- Easy to source replacement parts
Cons
- Frame channels still collect soap scum
- Not as visually premium as fully frameless
- Chrome channels can show water spots
- Less flexible in design customisation
Fully Frameless Shower Screens
Fully frameless shower screens use 10mm toughened safety glass with no aluminium frame. The glass panels are secured directly via point fixings, wall channels, or hinge systems that connect directly to wall tiles. The result is an uninterrupted glass surface that makes any bathroom look immediately more premium.
Frameless screens are significantly easier to clean than any framed alternative — there are no aluminium channels to harbour soap scum or limescale. Hardware choices (matte black, brushed brass, brushed nickel, chrome) can be specified to complement the overall bathroom design.
Tip
Pros
- Premium, modern appearance with no visual frame interruption
- Easiest to clean — no channels to trap grime
- 10mm glass is safe, rigid and durable
- Hardware available in multiple finishes
- Better long-term aesthetic — won't look dated
- Higher perceived value at resale
Cons
- Almost always a paid upgrade ($400–$1,200+ per screen)
- Requires precise installation — floor and wall must be level
- Higher glass cost (10mm vs 6–8mm)
- Some designs have small floor channels for stability
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Framed | Semi-Frameless | Fully Frameless |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glass thickness | 4–6mm | 6–8mm | 10mm |
| Frame material | Full aluminium frame | Minimal top/side channels | No frame — point fixings only |
| Ease of cleaning | Hardest | Moderate | Easiest |
| Appearance | Dated | Modern | Premium/luxury |
| Typical inclusion | Entry-level builds only | Standard — most builders | Upgrade |
| Typical upgrade cost | — | — | $400–$1,200 per screen |
| Resale appeal | Low | Standard | Higher |
Included or Upgrade?
Typically Included
Semi-Frameless Shower Screen (Chrome or Standard Finish)
Included as standard by most volume builders. Profile colour may be limited to chrome. Pivot or sliding door configurations vary by builder.
Typically an Upgrade
Fully Frameless Shower Screen
Almost universally a paid upgrade. Budget $400–$1,200 per shower depending on screen size and configuration.
Typically an Upgrade
Matte Black, Brushed Nickel, or Brushed Brass Hardware
Non-standard hardware finishes (anything other than chrome) are typically a paid upgrade on both semi-frameless and frameless screens.
Common Builder Upgrades
Common Builder Upgrade
Fully Frameless Shower Screen — Main Bathroom
Common Builder Upgrade
Fully Frameless Screen — Master Ensuite
Common Builder Upgrade
Hardware Finish Upgrade (Matte Black / Brushed Nickel)
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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