How To Measure Your Space for a Custom Shower Enclosure

Follow this step-by-step guide to measure your bathroom for a custom shower enclosure

Read Time: 3 minutes
Mar 10, 2025

Whether you’re remodeling your bathroom or upgrading from a standard shower to a sleek, custom enclosure, getting the right measurements is the foundation of a flawless installation. A custom enclosure is tailored specifically to your space—so a tape measure, a few minutes, and some careful notes can mean the difference between a smooth upgrade and a frustrating redo. This guide walks you through the tools, techniques, and tips you need to measure with confidence.

📏 Why Accurate Measurements Matter

When it comes to installing a custom shower enclosure, precision is everything. Even minor measurement errors can lead to fit issues, water leakage, or delays during installation. Whether you’re replacing an old enclosure or starting from scratch, taking accurate dimensions ensures the final product matches your vision—and fits your space.

🧰 What You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

Tape Measure (preferably metal for rigidity)
Level (2′ or 4′ for checking plumb walls)
Pencil & Notepad (or a printable measurement form)
Camera or Phone (optional, for visual references)
Heper (optional but helpful for larger showers)

✅ Step-by-Step: Measuring for a Custom Shower Enclosure

1. Identify Your Shower Type

Know the basic configuration of your shower:

Alcove: Enclosed on three sides
Corner (Neo-Angle): Two glass sides, one corner
Inline (Straight): Typically a single panel or sliding door between two walls
Walk-In or Open-Entry: Minimal framing, open side(s)

Knowing this helps determine where and how many measurements are needed.

an inline shower door

2. Measure the Opening Widths

Use your tape measure to get the width at three points:

Top Width
Middle Width
Bottom Width

🔎 Tip:

If measurements vary, write all three down and note which is the smallest—that’s typically the one used for custom fabrication.

3. Measure the Height

Standard custom enclosures are typically between 72″ and 80″, but they can be taller or shorter depending on design.

Measure from the shower curb or base to the desired top of the glass.
Repeat this at both ends of the enclosure to catch any ceiling slope or uneven base.

4. Check for Wall Plumb and Level

Use your level to:

Check walls: Are they perfectly vertical?
Check the curb or threshold: Is it perfectly level?

⚠️ Important:

If your walls or curb are not plumb/level, let your installer know. It may affect glass cuts or require shims.

📋 Sample Measurement Table

Here’s a simple format to record your measurements:

Measurement Area	Dimension (inches)	Notes
Top Width	58 1/2″	Wider than bottom by 1/4″
Middle Width	58 3/8″
Bottom Width	58 1/4″	Use this as final width
Left Height	76″
Right Height	76 1/4″	Ceiling slightly uneven

💡 Pro Tips for Success

Measure twice, cut once. Always double-check before submitting final numbers.
Use fractions instead of decimals (e.g., 58 1/4″ instead of 58.25″).
Take pictures of your layout and notes for the installer.
If you’re unsure, schedule a professional measurement to guarantee precision.

✅ Final Checklist

Before you contact your installer or supplier, make sure you’ve:

Measured top, middle, and bottom widths
Measured height on both sides
Checked for wall plumb and curb level
Identified shower type and layout
Noted all irregularities or variations

🛁 Wrapping Up

Custom shower enclosures deliver elegance, functionality, and a perfect fit—but only if the measurements are right. Taking the time to measure carefully (or hiring someone to do it for you) can save time, money, and frustration. With the right data in hand, your installer can bring your vision to life without surprises.

For informational purposes only.