Essential Glass Fittings To Check Before The Winter Sets In

As the colder months roll in, many homeowners are focused on keeping their homes warm and energy-efficient. But there’s one space that’s often overlooked when it comes to winter preparation: the bathroom. A well-fitted shower isn’t just about looks; it’s about comfort, safety, and preventing unnecessary water damage. 

For professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, autumn is the perfect time to check glass fittings, seals, and thresholds to ensure everything is winter-ready. So, what signs of wear and tear should you be looking out for in your bathroom before the winter sets in?

Why do shower fittings matter more in winter?

Bathrooms are naturally humid environments, but when the air gets colder outside, condensation becomes a bigger problem. Even the smallest leak in a shower seal or threshold, or faulty shower door hinges can lead to water pooling, damp patches, and even mould growth. 

Add in the fact that showers are used more often in winter (there’s nothing better than a hot shower on a cold morning), and suddenly your fittings are under much more stress. For professionals, this makes October a prime month for recommending upgrades or replacements to clients.

How do you know if your shower needs new seals?

Shower seals are one of the first fittings to show wear and tear. They can become brittle, discoloured, or cracked over time. Here are the signs that they’re not doing their job:

• Water escaping onto the bathroom floor – usually near the corners.

• A draft coming through the shower door – especially noticeable on cold mornings.

• Mould or mildew building up along the seal – a sign of water seeping where it shouldn’t.

Replacing seals is a quick and cost-effective fix that makes a huge difference in keeping showers watertight and warm. 

How do you check shower door hinges for wear and tear? 

Hinges are constantly under strain, and over time, even high-quality ones can loosen or corrode. This can cause doors to sag or fail to close properly, leaving small gaps where water can escape.

When inspecting a shower this autumn, ask yourself:

• Does the door close smoothly and tightly?

• Are there any squeaks, rattles, or signs of corrosion?

• Has the alignment shifted, leaving uneven gaps?

If the answer to any of these is “yes,” it’s time to replace the hinges. With a wide range of shower door hinges in different finishes, professionals can match both function and style, ensuring the bathroom not only works better but looks better too.

What are the signs that a shower threshold needs replacing?

Thresholds are one of the most underrated parts of a shower. Acting as a barrier against water, they prevent leaks that could otherwise spread across bathroom floors. In winter, when floors are colder, this isn’t just an inconvenience; it can be a slip hazard.

Signs a threshold needs replacing include:

• Persistent puddles outside the shower.

• Visible damage or warping of the threshold material.

• Difficulty in maintaining a good seal with the door.

Ensure that you select a threshold designed for durability and precision fitting, so they will provide value for money and prevent water seepage from causing bigger problems.

What tools make winter bathroom projects easier?

While fittings are the key to a watertight shower, the right tools make the job quicker and safer. Professionals gearing up for winter bathroom projects should ensure they have:

• Glass dollies and vacuum lifters for safe handling.

• Putty knives and contact cement for precise installations.

• Glass cleaners for a spotless, professional finish.

• Wrist guards and PPE for personal protection in busy seasonal workloads.

Stocking up now avoids delays later in the season when jobs start to pile up.

Stay ahead this winter

Bathrooms might not be the first place people think of when preparing their home for winter, but ensuring showers are fitted and sealed properly can make a big difference to comfort and safety. For professionals, October is the perfect time to stock up on the essentials that keep projects running smoothly and customers happy.

We’ve got everything you need to fit glass like a professional, from seals and thresholds to hinges, clamps, and specialist tools. Whether you’re preparing a client’s bathroom for the cold season or simply upgrading your own fittings, we’re here to help you get the exact parts you need.