Originally, the concept of sliding and folding doors came from countries with warmer climates. Business owners wanted to open up their buildings to enjoy the outside weather from the inside. This concept has grown since then. Today, the doors have become stylish and modern. They are made of aluminium or timber or a combination of both. The doors are also referred to as Bi fold doors, concertina or folding patio doors. They can also be made of glass with framed aluminium or timber to cover large glass areas.
There are of many varieties ranging from frameless slide and open to the framed ones. Sliding doors can be purchased as a full package which includes aluminium windows, movable glass walls, glass skylights and glass roofs. They are perfect for balconies, open spaces, verandas and galleries. They give elegance to a home with a contemporary touch.
Sliding and folding doors have different configuration. They come in odd and even numbers. With an odd number door like three your entrance can become your exit door without opening the other two. With the even number like four, you will have to open two doors before you exist.
The doors also have a wide selection of sills depending with how you want your house to look. These sills vary slightly in depth so it’s good to seek expert’s advice when selecting them. External sills are flush patio sill, flush decking sill, metal sill and standard timber sill. Internal sills are conservatory and floor plate sills.
There are also specific hinges and track systems for sliding and folding doors. The standard ones are known as E3 and E4 systems. The E3 hinge system is used for a maximum width 950mm and a height of 2600mm maximum while the E4 hinge system is used on taller and wider doors. There are many companies that manufacture a collection of hinges but the recommended standard ones are the top hung hinge systems. Factors to consider when selecting the hinges are their strength, durability and the material used in designing them. There is also a range of handles that give a great finish to these doors. Most of these handles are made of stainless steel, polished chrome and brass. The handles are not limited to the three. You can choose from other handles with your expert’s help.
You can also choose a colour that compliments your house for your doors. You can purchase a colour chart to help you in selecting great colours. You can also seek local professional painters to give you the best advice about painting your door.
Folding and sliding doors have a large panel of glass to choose from. The commonly used glass is the laminated double glazed standard unit because it is strong and offer great performance. Other glass options are toughened glass, laminated glass, solar reflective glass, integral blinds and S1 fly screen or blind glass. Again with the help of your adviser or expert, you will be able to have a right selection.
Folding and sliding doors are strong, durable and give your home an elegant look. The outside world is brought inside your home. If you are looking to change your doors then you should consider sliding and folding doors.