Custom shower glass can transform a bathroom from ordinary to luxurious, offering a sleek, modern look while improving functionality. For homeowners in Mosman, Lane Cove, or Balmain, a frameless glass shower can become the centrepiece of an ensuite. In apartments in Zetland, Mascot, or Wolli Creek, it maximises light and space, giving a contemporary feel. But how much does custom shower glass actually cost in Sydney? This guide breaks down costs, influencing factors, local considerations, and practical advice for budgeting your bathroom renovation.
1. What Is Custom Shower Glass?
Custom shower glass refers to tailor-made glass panels designed to fit your bathroom layout and style. Options include:
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Frameless shower screens: Sleek, minimal hardware, modern look
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Semi-frameless screens: Partial framing for structure, less expensive than full frameless
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Hinged doors vs. sliding doors: Depending on available space and preference
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Tinted, frosted, or patterned glass: Adds privacy and design appeal
Custom glass is measured and cut to fit the specific dimensions of your bathroom, providing a seamless finish. This is especially useful in irregular spaces, corner showers, or apartments with limited square footage.
2. Average Cost of Custom Shower Glass in Sydney
Custom shower glass costs are influenced by size, thickness, type of glass, hardware, and installation complexity. On average:
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Small frameless shower (1–1.2 m width, standard height): $800 – $1,500
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Medium-sized shower (1.2–1.8 m width): $1,500 – $2,500
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Large showers or walk-in frameless designs: $2,500 – $4,500+
Apartment bathrooms may incur slightly higher costs due to access restrictions, strata approvals, and lift logistics in suburbs like Zetland or Mascot.
3. Factors Affecting Custom Shower Glass Costs
A. Shower Size and Configuration
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Small showers: Usually corner installations or compact ensuites, lower material and labour costs
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Medium showers: Standard family bathroom setups, may include additional panels
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Large or walk-in showers: Multiple panels, longer hinges, more hardware, higher cost
Example: A 1.2 m wide frameless shower in Parramatta may cost $1,200–$1,800, while a 2 m walk-in design in Mosman could reach $3,800–$4,500.
B. Glass Thickness and Type
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6 mm glass: Budget-friendly, suitable for smaller showers
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8 mm glass: Standard thickness for most frameless showers, better durability
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10–12 mm glass: Premium, ideal for larger walk-in showers, highly durable
Specialty options: Frosted, tinted, patterned, or anti-splash coatings can add $200–$500 to the cost.
C. Hardware and Fittings
Custom shower glass requires quality hardware for durability and safety:
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Handles, hinges, brackets, and seals
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Stainless steel, chrome, or brushed finishes
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Soft-close or pivot hinges
Hardware costs can range from $150–$600 depending on quality and style. High-end finishes for premium bathrooms in Mosman or Eastern Suburbs often command higher prices.
D. Installation Complexity
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Straightforward installations: Minimal cutting, single wall attachment, easy access
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Complex layouts: Angled panels, corner entries, recesses, or bathrooms with irregular walls
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Apartment logistics: Lift access, restricted work hours, and strata approvals
Installation labour in Sydney typically costs $250–$800, depending on complexity and suburb.
4. Cost Breakdown by Sydney Suburb
Suburb Type Average Custom Shower Glass Cost Notes Inner West (Newtown, Marrickville, Balmain) $1,200 – $2,500 Older homes may require wall adjustments for proper fit Eastern Suburbs (Bondi, Coogee, Paddington) $1,500 – $3,500 Premium finishes common in high-end apartments and houses North Shore (Mosman, Lane Cove, Chatswood) $2,000 – $4,500+ Larger ensuite bathrooms, high-quality glass and hardware preferred Western Sydney (Parramatta, Blacktown, Castle Hill) $1,200 – $2,500 More standard layouts, fewer premium finishes CBD & Inner City Apartments (Zetland, Mascot, Wolli Creek) $1,500 – $3,000+ Strata approvals and apartment access can add costs
5. DIY vs Professional Installation
While some homeowners consider DIY glass installation, professional installation is strongly recommended:
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Ensures proper sealing to prevent leaks
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Complies with Australian Standards for safety and durability
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Reduces risk of breakage during fitting
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Guarantees warranty coverage
DIY risks: Incorrect installation can cause water leaks, shattered glass, or void warranties.
6. Cost-Saving Tips
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Opt for standard sizes when possible: Fully custom designs cost more; using standard panel widths may reduce price.
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Select mid-range hardware: Chrome or brushed steel hardware is durable without the premium price tag of designer fittings.
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Combine with bathroom renovation package: Many renovation companies like MB9 Australia offer bundle deals including glass installation, tiling, and waterproofing, reducing overall costs.
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Plan early for strata approvals: Apartment projects in Zetland, Mascot, or Wolli Creek often require permits or approvals; planning early avoids costly delays.
7. Examples
Example 1: Small Frameless Shower – Surry Hills (1 m width, 2 m height)
Cost Component Range Glass panel (8 mm) $600 – $900 Hardware (hinges, handle, seal) $150 – $250 Installation $250 – $400 Total $1,000 – $1,500
Example 2: Large Walk-in Frameless Shower – Mosman (2 m width, 2.1 m height)
Cost Component Range Glass panels (10 mm) $1,800 – $2,500 Premium hardware $300 – $600 Installation $700 – $1,400 Total $2,800 – $4,500+
Apartment Note: Adding strata approval and restricted access logistics in Zetland or Mascot may increase total cost by $200–$400.
8. Key Takeaways
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Average custom shower glass costs in Sydney range from $1,000 for small frameless showers to $4,500+ for large walk-in designs.
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Factors influencing cost include shower size, glass thickness, hardware quality, installation complexity, and suburb location.
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Apartments and high-rise buildings may require additional fees for access and strata approvals.
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Professional installation is strongly recommended for safety, durability, and warranty purposes.
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Bundling shower glass installation with bathroom renovation services, such as tiling and waterproofing, can save both time and money.
Custom shower glass is an investment that elevates your bathroom’s aesthetics, enhances functionality, and adds value to your home, whether you live in Sydney’s Inner West, Eastern Suburbs, North Shore, Western Sydney, or CBD apartments.
For professional custom shower glass installation, full bathroom renovations, or complete kitchen and home renovation services in Sydney, visit www.mb9.com.au to find out more about MB9 Australia Pty Ltd and their expert design, installation, and project management services.
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