The installation of EASCO shower doors requires careful planning and precise execution to ensure both functional efficiency and long-term durability. EASCO, a leader in the custom glass shower door industry since 1960, provides detailed specifications and installation guidance to ensure optimal performance of its frameless and framed enclosures. This article outlines key technical considerations, material specifications, and installation best practices derived from official documentation and technical guidelines provided by EASCO and its affiliated service partners.
Overview of EASCO Shower Door Systems
EASCO offers a range of shower door systems, including frameless and framed enclosures, tailored to meet various design preferences and structural requirements. These systems are engineered to provide water containment, aesthetic appeal, and long-term usability. The documentation from EASCO emphasizes the importance of early consultation during the design phase to ensure proper structural support and layout compatibility.
According to the source materials, EASCO recommends early involvement in the design process to evaluate tub and shower layouts, considering limitations, design options, and configuration best suited for the user. This is particularly important for heavy glass enclosures with 3/8" and ½" glass, which may require behind-the-wall stud support to ensure stability and safety.
EASCO also notes that all tile and marble should be installed using a consistent bed of mastic to prevent cracking due to voids. Knee walls, buttresses, thresholds, and sills should be level and plumb, with a slight 1/8" pitch into the shower area to help prevent water leakage. These structural considerations are essential for the proper installation and long-term performance of EASCO shower doors.
Installation Process and Required Components
The installation of EASCO shower doors involves a series of defined steps and components to ensure a complete and proper setup. The documentation outlines that for a complete installation, the following items must be furnished, fabricated, and installed:
- A glass door with all associated hardware
- Additional tempered glass panels
- Tracks, vinyl seals, and mounting hardware
The specific materials and dimensions used depend on the series chosen. For example, the Expressions & Image Series requires 1/4" tempered glass with diamond bevel polished edgework for swing doors and bi-pass sliders, while the Image Plus Series includes 3/8" thick tempered glass for bypass sliders. The Estate and Elite Series utilize 3/8" or ½" thick tempered glass with diamond beveled polished edgework for swing doors and fixed panels.
All hardware components for the heavy glass series, such as hinges, door hardware, and glass support clips, are constructed from solid brass (Estate & Elite series). These components are accompanied by bushings, gaskets, washers, and stainless or brass screws to ensure a secure and durable installation. The aluminum components used in EASCO systems are made from 6463 T-5 aluminum alloy with a minimum thickness of .062, and are buffed and bright dipped anodized or epoxy powder coated for corrosion resistance.
Technical Specifications and Compliance
EASCO shower doors comply with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards for architectural glazing materials, specifically CFR 16, Part I & II and ANSI Z97.1-1984. These standards ensure that the tempered glass used in EASCO enclosures meets the necessary safety and performance requirements.
The glass thickness and edgework specifications are tailored to the intended use of each series. The Expressions & Image Series uses 1/4" tempered glass with diamond bevel polished edgework on swing doors and bi-pass sliders. The Image Plus Series features 3/8" thick tempered glass with seamed edges on fixed panels. The Estate and Elite Series, designed for heavy glass applications, use 3/8" or ½" thick tempered glass with diamond beveled polished edgework on swing doors and fixed panels.
All hardware components are designed to support the weight and structural integrity of the glass, ensuring long-term durability and safety. Solid brass construction for the Estate and Elite series provides additional strength and resistance to corrosion, while the anodized or powder-coated aluminum components offer a lightweight yet durable alternative.
Installation Best Practices
To ensure a successful installation, EASCO recommends following a series of best practices that address structural considerations, hardware placement, and water containment. These include:
- Ensuring that all tile and marble is installed with a consistent bed of mastic to prevent cracking
- Leveling and pluming all knee walls, buttresses, thresholds, and sills
- Incorporating a slight 1/8" pitch into the shower to prevent water leakage
- Considering the placement of objects such as toilets, pedestal sinks, and vanities when determining door swing
- Evaluating the placement of door openings and hinges to minimize water leakage from body sprays and multiple headed showers
EASCO also advises that some degree of seepage should be expected and considered normal. While every effort is made to provide a water-tight enclosure, the design and materials used are intended to minimize but not eliminate all potential leakage.
Customization and Installation Services
EASCO offers a range of customization options to meet the unique needs of individual users. Custom finishes, difficult applications, and specialized hardware are highlighted as specialties of the company, allowing users to tailor their shower doors to specific design preferences and functional requirements. The documentation also mentions that EASCO provides expert factory installation through its Measure, Deliver, and Install (MDI) program in select areas.
The MDI program allows users to select a shower door and request professional installation, ensuring that the product is properly fitted and functional. This service is particularly beneficial for users who may lack the expertise or tools required for a precise installation.
In addition to installation services, EASCO offers a Lifetime Limited Warranty for its products. This warranty provides peace of mind to users by covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use conditions.
User Feedback and Service Experiences
While the primary source material for this article focuses on technical specifications and installation guidelines, user feedback from independent reports provides additional insight into the performance and service quality of EASCO and affiliated products. These reports highlight the importance of professional installation and the benefits of additional features such as ShowerGuard, a protective coating that enhances the durability and ease of maintenance of glass surfaces.
Users have reported positive experiences with EASCO and related products, citing the quality of the glass, the expertise of installers, and the effectiveness of features such as ShowerGuard. Some users have also noted the value of consulting with dealers and installers to make informed decisions about design, materials, and functionality.
One user reported that the ShowerGuard coating significantly improved the appearance and maintenance of their shower glass, making it easier to clean and resistant to staining. Another user praised the professional installation services provided by a local dealer, noting that the process was efficient and the final product met their expectations.
These testimonials reinforce the importance of professional installation and the value of additional features such as ShowerGuard, which can enhance the long-term performance and aesthetic appeal of EASCO shower doors.
Conclusion
The installation of EASCO shower doors requires careful attention to structural considerations, material specifications, and installation best practices to ensure optimal performance and long-term durability. By following the guidelines provided by EASCO and consulting with professional installers, users can achieve a functional and aesthetically pleasing shower enclosure that meets their specific needs and preferences.
EASCO's commitment to quality, customization, and professional installation services further enhances the value of its products, providing users with reliable and long-lasting solutions for their bathroom needs. Whether through the MDI program or independent dealers, users can benefit from the expertise and support available to ensure a successful installation.
As with any home improvement project, it is important to carefully evaluate design options, materials, and installation requirements to make informed decisions. EASCO's documentation and user feedback provide valuable guidance for users seeking to install custom shower doors that combine functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal.