Windows in the shower are a popular choice that many homeowners opt for. However, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and needs, as well as any potential disadvantages, before you go ahead with a window in your shower
Windows in the shower provide natural light and ventilation, and they can help open up the space in a bathroom. However, if they’re not installed in the right place, windows can also be a privacy concern, and they can even cause security and energy issues.
Let’s take a closer look at windows in the shower, including whether they’re a good idea, what factors to consider, and the advantages and disadvantages of having them.
Why Install a Window in the Shower?
There are a few different reasons why people choose to install windows in their showers. The most common is that they want more natural light in their bathroom.
Bathrooms are often relatively small and dark, and putting a window in is sometimes the only way to brighten them up. It might also be the case that the shower is the only place with an outward-facing wall and is therefore the only place for a window in the room.
Things to Consider
If you’re making the decision about whether to go ahead and install a window in the shower, here are the main things you should consider first.
Privacy
Privacy is a big concern when it comes to having a window in the shower. If the window is too low down or faces out to a neighbor’s house, the residents of the house in which the shower window is installed risk having their private shower on view for anyone to see. That said, there are ways to get around this.
The first option is placing the window high enough so that no one can see in. You can also make sure it doesn’t face any other houses or yards, if that’s a possibility.
You can also choose to install frosted glass or a frosted glass film (on Amazon) instead of regular transparent glass. That way, even if neighbors or passers by can see the window, they will only be able to see general shapes and shadows.
Ventilation
Windows in the shower can provide more ventilation to a bathroom, but the effectiveness of the ventilation depends on several factors.
If the bathroom is poorly ventilated, adding a window to the shower area can help improve air circulation and prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.
If the shower does not have its own ventilation system, a window can help to remove excess humidity and steam that can accumulate during showering.
However, if the window isn’t properly installed or sealed, it could lead to water leakage and damage to the surrounding walls and flooring. It’s worth noting that if the window is located in a cold climate, it could also lead to condensation on the glass and potentially create additional moisture issues.
Size of the Window
The size of the window is another important consideration. It’s generally thought of as best to keep shower windows relatively small, as it reduces the visibility from outside and makes them easier to clean.
Installation Cost
Installing a window isn’t something that most homeowners can do on their own, so they need to hire a professional to do the job for them.
For the window alone, the cost could be up to $2,000, and you also need to consider additional costs surrounding that — for example, are you making any modifications to the floor, walls, or shower itself?
Window Placement
Lastly, you need to consider the placement of the window. Higher up is best for the sake of privacy, but it’s also a good idea to keep the window away from the stream of water, as mold and mildew could form in the cracks if water gets in and is left to settle.
The Advantages of a Window in the Shower
Despite the potential challenges, many people choose to install a window in the shower because it does have some great advantages:
Light
Having a window in the shower provides a natural source of light, making the bathroom feel more open. This is especially handy if your bathroom doesn’t have other sources of light. Light also improves moods, so you can start your day off on the best foot!
Ventilation
A window in the shower can provide additional ventilation to the bathroom, helping to reduce moisture and prevent mold and mildew growth. This is especially important in bathrooms that don’t have their own ventilation systems.
Aesthetic
A well-placed window can add to the overall aesthetic appeal of the bathroom, creating a more visually pleasing space. They can also provide good views out of the bathroom, adding to overall atmosphere.
The Disadvantages of a Window in the Shower
With the good comes the bad, however, so it’s also important to consider the disadvantages of having a window in the shower. They include the following:
Lack of Privacy
If the window isn’t placed well and the glass has good optical clarity, then you risk having neighbors or passers by able to see into the bathroom.
Even if they can’t quite see in, having the window there can make people using the shower feel self-conscious, just in case someone spots them. This can make showers a not particularly relaxing time.
Water Damage
A window in the shower can be vulnerable to water damage if it’s not properly installed or sealed. Water infiltration can lead to mold and mildew growth, as well as damage to surrounding walls and flooring. This is why it’s also best to keep the stream of water pointing away from the window.
More Maintenance
A window in the shower can add an additional cleaning requirement to your bathroom routine, since the glass and frame will need to be cleaned regularly to prevent soap scum and water stains.
Energy Bills
Windows can be a source of heat loss or gain, depending on the season and the type of window. This can lead to higher energy bills if the window isn’t energy-efficient or properly insulated. You should always make sure you hire a trusted contractor to do the job to prevent this problem.
Safety
Lastly, there are safety concerns that need to be taken into account. Adding another window to the house is another place where an intruder could possibly break in. Although you would hopefully never need to worry about this, it is something to consider.
Final Thoughts
Overall, shower windows can be a great idea. They can improve ventilation and open up your bathroom, giving you more natural light and putting you in a better mood.
However, they also require maintenance, and they can be both a privacy and safety concern, so it’s critical to do your research and decide of the style choice is the right one for you before proceeding.