UPVC Sliding Patio Doors

Also known as sliding glass doors, UPVC sldiing patio doors are a popular choice for garden entrances and specious homes. In this blog, found out the history of sliding doors, as well as the benefits of UPVC sliding patio doors.

The history of sliding doors

Sliding patio doors as we know them appeared last century

• Sliding patio doors as we know them are said to take inspiration from the shōji of Japan.
  
  
• The development of float glass in the 1950s by the Pilkington Brothers allowed glass to look more uniform, and allow a more seamless transition between the outdoors and indoors.

What are main features of UPVC sliding patio doors?

• Security - Features include a multi-point locking system, toughened glass to resist impact, a reinforced frame, and anti-lift properties.
  
  
• Energy efficiency - A multi-chambered profile restricts heat loss, while double or triple glazing with warm edge spacer bars also help to keep heat indoors.
  
  
• Weather resistance - UPVC does not absorb rain as wood can, which can lead to degradation and deterioration of function. The firm central seal between the sash and threshold prevents water tracking.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of UPVC sliding patio doors?

Advantages of UPVC sliding patio doors

• Low maintenance - UPVC can withstand the elements and does not need to be repainted, unlike wooden doors, from which paint can chip or peel.
  
  
• Energy efficient - UPVC is multi-layered, making it harder for heat to escape and draught to enter the home, while single-layered wooden doors do little to break up the path of heat or cold. Double or triple glazing, as well as glass with warm edge spacer bar technology, also helps to deflect wayward heat and intruding cold.
  
  
• Less expensive than aluminium - UPVC is cheaper than aluminium, which has a high-end price tag.
  
  
• They create more space - Not only do patio doors provide a more seamless appearance than standard doors, they also take up less space, as they slide rather than arc inward or outward.

Disadvantages of UPVC sliding patio doors

• Bulkier than standard doors - Sliding patio doors tend to be larger than standard doors, as well as heavier.
  
  
• Less design choices - Sliding patio doors tend to be restricted to full glass, and are thus limited in design, as well as hardware options.

Considerations for UPVC sldiing patio doors

• Catflap or pet door - This cannot be fitted within a sliding patio door, and so would need to be fitted within a side panel, or within a standard door.
  
  
• Door design - Sldiing patio doors are generally fully glazed, and so for more elaborate designs you may consider a standard door instead.

What do X and O mean for sliding doors?

These refer to the opening and fixed panels of a sliding patio door.

X means opening, while O means fixed

These denotations are based on the panels as viewed from outside - note how the opening door is behind the fixed one in the 2-panel.

I want to buy UPVC sliding patio doors

You can do so in one of the following ways:

• Call us free - Speak to our door experts on 0800 910 1122 and they'll be happy to help you.
  
  
• Message online - Either via the blue tab on the right, or on our Contact Us page (lets you attached an image if you have spec handy or a specific requirement).
  
  
• Order online - You can place an order directly online, either Fully Fitted or Supply Only. Our door experts will soon be in touch.

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