Can I have a doorless shower?

Yes, you can absolutely have a doorless shower, but it requires careful planning for proper drainage, waterproofing, and space requirements to prevent water from escaping into the rest of your bathroom.

Doorless showers work best when designed with specific features. You'll need adequate space - typically at least 36 inches wide by 60 inches deep for the shower area, plus enough room outside for water runoff. The shower floor should slope properly toward the drain (minimum 1/4 inch per foot), and you'll want to position the showerhead away from the opening to minimize water spray. A rainfall showerhead or wall-mounted fixture angled toward the back wall works better than a handheld that might spray water outward.

Waterproofing becomes even more critical with doorless designs since there's no barrier to contain potential leaks. The entire shower area needs proper membrane installation behind tiles, and the floor requires careful sloping and sealing. Many Ottawa homeowners opt for large-format tiles or natural stone with minimal grout lines to reduce maintenance and create a seamless look.

In Ottawa's climate, consider ventilation carefully since doorless showers can increase bathroom humidity. A properly sized exhaust fan (minimum 50 CFM) helps prevent moisture issues that could lead to mold in our humid summers. The open design also means your bathroom will feel cooler in winter, so heated floors are a popular upgrade.

Design-wise, doorless showers create a spa-like feel and make small bathrooms appear larger. Consider a partial glass panel or pony wall for some splash protection while maintaining the open concept. Textured or slip-resistant flooring is essential for safety.

For a free consultation on designing your doorless shower with proper waterproofing and drainage, Ottawa Bathrooms can help ensure your project meets all requirements and functions beautifully for years to come.