A window in the shower can bring in fresh air and natural light. But it has to be done the right way, or water damage and privacy problems can happen. It also needs to follow building rules. This guide will show you the styles, materials, costs, and things to think about so you can decide if a shower window is a good fit for your bathroom upgrade. Let’s get started!
Why Add a Window in Your Shower?
A shower window has three big benefits: more light, better airflow, and a nicer look.
- Natural light and space: A window lets in daylight, which makes the bathroom feel bigger and more open. This is extra helpful in small or dark bathrooms that feel closed in.
- Better airflow: Showers make a lot of steam and damp air. A window you can open clears out moisture faster than most fans, helping stop mould and protecting your home from damage.
- Nice look: A window can also make your bathroom look better. It might show a garden view, bring in the sky, or simply add a feature that connects your bathroom to the outdoors.
What Types of Window Styles Are Best for Shower Areas?
Not every window is right for wet areas. The best ones are easy to use and built to keep water out. Here are three good choices:
1. Awning windows
These are hinged at the top and swing open at the bottom. They’re great for showers because you can keep them open even when it rains. The glass tilts like a little roof, letting air in but keeping water out.
2. Casement windows
These are hinged on the side and open like a door. They open wide, which is perfect for letting out steam quickly after a hot shower.
3. Fixed windows
If you just want more light or a nice view, fixed windows are the simplest choice. They don’t open, so they keep out water and save energy. But since they don’t let in air, you’ll need a good fan to clear the moisture.
Where Should the Window Be Placed for Privacy and Functionality?
Bathroom windows should bring in light and fresh air but still keep things private. A good way is to put them high on the wall, above eye level. This lets the sun shine in but stops people from seeing inside. If the window is lower, you can use frosted, patterned, or tinted glass. That way, the room stays bright, but no one can look through.
How you place the window also matters. If it can open, it’s best near the shower, tub, or across from the door. This helps get rid of steam and smells faster. If you can match it with another window, the air will flow better and the room will stay dry. Some smart choices make it even nicer. High windows (clerestory) let light in from above while keeping privacy. Small awning windows set high can stay open even when it rains. With the right spot, your bathroom will be light, private, and comfy.
How to Ensure Proper Waterproofing and Prevent Damage
Waterproofing is the most critical aspect of shower window installation. Poor waterproofing leads to leaks, structural damage, and expensive repairs. This work requires experienced professionals familiar with building codes and waterproofing standards.
- Use Waterproof Frame Materials. Choose windows made from materials that won't deteriorate in wet conditions. Vinyl (uPVC) and powder-coated aluminum are reliable options. Avoid timber frames in shower areas as they will eventually rot despite treatments and sealants.
- Install Proper Drainage. The window sill must be made from solid, waterproof material like stone or engineered quartz. It needs to slope away from the window at least 5 degrees to ensure water drains back into the shower rather than pooling against the frame.
- Integrate Waterproofing Systems. The wall's waterproofing membrane must connect seamlessly with the window installation. This includes proper flashing around the frame perimeter and careful integration with existing wall waterproofing. Any gaps or poor connections will allow water into the wall cavities.
- Use Quality Sealants. All joints between the window frame, sill, and surrounding surfaces need high-grade silicone sealant rated for wet areas and mold resistance. These seals require regular inspection and maintenance to remain effective.
What Materials and Glass Options Work Best?
Choosing the right materials is key to a long-lasting and functional shower window.
Frame Materials:
In Australia, the top choices are vinyl (uPVC) and powder-coated aluminium. Both are completely waterproof, durable, and low-maintenance. Vinyl offers superior thermal performance, while aluminium provides a slim, modern profile. They are vastly superior to timber for this application.
Glass Options:
Clear glass is rarely a good idea unless your property is completely secluded. The best options include:
- Frosted glass: Provides complete shower privacy while brightening the bathroom with natural light
- Patterned glass: Maintains privacy during use while adding decorative visual interest to the space
- Privacy film: Allows customization of existing windows without full replacement costs
- Tempered glass: Prevents serious injury from accidental breakage in slippery shower conditions
- Laminated glass: Eliminates the risk of falling glass shards that could cause cuts on wet bathroom floors
What Are the Costs of Installing a Window in the Shower?
The cost of installing a window in a shower in Australia can vary significantly based on your location (e.g., Sydney vs. Perth), the window size, and the complexity of the job. As of late 2025, here are some ballpark figures:
- Replacing an Existing Window: If you are simply replacing an existing bathroom window with a new waterproof one during a renovation, the cost for the window and specialist installation would typically range from $1,200 to $2,500 AUD.
- Creating a New Opening: If you are cutting a new hole in an exterior wall, the cost will be much higher due to the structural work (lintel), masonry, and waterproofing required. For a project like this, expect costs to start from $3,500 to $6,000+ AUD.
Note: These are estimates. Always get detailed quotes from licensed and insured builders and window installers.
Conclusion
A shower window can make your bathroom brighter, fresher, and nicer to look at if it’s planned and put in the right way. To get it right, you need good materials, proper waterproofing, and a skilled pro who knows the building rules. Think about your own needs, budget, and home layout before deciding. Shower windows have many benefits, but they also need proper care and careful setup to last a long time. For more bathroom products that can help with your bathroom renovation, check out MyHomeware.
FAQs
Can You Have a Window in a Shower in Australia?
Yes, you can. Many modern homes in Australia have a window in the shower. It just has to follow the building rules. The glass must be safety glass, and the window needs proper waterproofing. A licensed pro should handle the install to make sure it’s done right.
Does a Window in a Shower Need to Be Tempered?
Yes. Building rules say windows in showers must use safety glass because of slips and knocks. The most common type is tempered glass. It’s heated to make it stronger than normal glass and, if it breaks, it shatters into small, less harmful pieces. Laminated glass is another safe choice. It stays in place if it cracks, so no glass falls out.
How to Obscure a Shower Window?
There are a few easy ways to keep privacy with a shower window. Frosted or etched glass hides the view but still lets in light. Patterned glass with textures blurs what people see from outside. You can also add a privacy film to clear glass, which comes in different styles and levels of cover. Another option is to place the window high on the wall, above eye level, so no one can see in.
