Plumber: New glass shower door

Q: We recently moved into a new home and the good news is that the bathrooms are in pretty good shape. However, both bathrooms use shower curtains for the tub and stand-alone shower stall. We want to install glass shower doors, and want to know the different types available. Thanks! - Jean, Tenn.

A: Glass shower doors generally come in one of four basic styles. I recommend choosing from one of the following:

- Pivot: This is a swinging-type shower door that can open out from the right or left. It works like a traditional door and allows easy access. Pivot doors are usually found on standard-size shower stalls with adequate bathroom space.

- Sliding: Great for tubs and larger shower stalls, these two-panel glass doors are space-savers since they do not open out. One panel slides into the space of the other to provide access.

- Bath screen: This is the door to look for when you want the benefits of a sliding tub or shower door, but you need even greater access. Bath screens have at least three sliding panels that provide easy entrance.

- Steam: If you're adding a steam unit to your shower area, a steam-type shower door should be installed. Such doors include a top section that completes a tight seal to hold in the steam.

Master contractor/plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book "Ed Del Grande's House Call," the host of TV and Internet shows and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eadelg@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.

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Plumber: New glass shower door