Shower Door Configurations: Swing, Bypass, and Pivot Options

The door style you choose affects both function and aesthetics. According to the NKBA, matching configuration to your space is as important as choosing frame style.

Swing (Hinged) Doors

According to FGIA, swing doors:

How they work: Door pivots on hinges attached to wall or fixed panel

Opening: Typically outward (code requires this for safety)

Best for:

• Walk-in showers with adequate clearance
• Frameless applications
• Single-entry showers

Space required: Door width plus 2-3" clearance when open

Considerations:

• Requires floor space for swing arc
• Most water escapes when door swings open
• Premium aesthetic

Bypass (Sliding) Doors

According to NKBA, bypass doors:

How they work: Two panels slide past each other on tracks

Opening: Half of opening accessible at once

Best for:

• Tub/shower combinations
• Narrow bathrooms without swing clearance
• Budget-conscious projects

Advantages:

• No floor clearance needed
• Excellent water containment (bottom track)
• Generally lower cost

Limitations:

• Never 100% open
• Track requires regular cleaning
• Less premium appearance than swing

Pivot Doors

According to FGIA, pivot doors:

How they work: Door rotates on pivot points (top and bottom) rather than side hinges

Opening: Can swing both directions (in/out)

Best for:

• Modern frameless applications
• When wall mounting isn't possible
• Unique configurations

Advantages:

• Can fit unusual openings
• Striking contemporary look
• Self-centering when closed

Limitations:

• Requires precise floor alignment
• Less water containment (bidirectional swing)
• Higher cost

Bi-Fold Doors

According to NKBA, bi-fold doors:

How they work: Door folds in half as it opens

Opening: Nearly full opening with reduced swing

Best for:

• Narrow spaces
• When swing clearance is tight
• Alcove installations

Advantages:

• Minimal swing footprint
• Wider entry than bypass
• Full opening access

Limitations:

• More moving parts
• Can be awkward to operate
• Less common (fewer options)

Choosing Based on Space

According to NKBA design guidelines:

| Bathroom Size | Recommended Configuration |
|---------------|---------------------------|
| Large master | Swing door (frameless) |
| Standard | Any configuration works |
| Small/narrow | Bypass or bi-fold |
| Tub/shower | Bypass most practical |

The Bottom Line

The "best" configuration depends on your space and priorities. According to FGIA, swing doors offer premium appearance but need clearance; bypass doors are practical but utilitarian; pivot doors are striking but specific. Choose based on how you'll use the space daily.

*For complete guidance, see: [Frameless vs. Framed Shower Doors](/guides/frameless-vs-framed-shower-doors)*