Introduction
Sliding doors have become a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces, offering a sleek, sleep saving solution for both interior and exterior spaces. Whether you’re considering internal glass sliding doors to partition your living space or external sliding doors to connect your home to the outdoors, understanding the pros and cons of can help you make informed decisions.
How Do Internal Sliding Doors Work?
Internal sliding doors operate by moving along a track system, allowing the door to slide parallel to the adjoining wall. This mechanism is space-saving, eliminating the need for door swing clearance. There are two primary types:
- Top Hung Systems: The door is suspended from a track mounted above the doorway, with rollers ensuring smooth movement. A floor guide keeps the door aligned.
- Bottom Rolling Systems: The door glides on a track at floor level, suitable when overhead support isn’t feasible.
These doors are commonly used for room dividers, wardrobes, and ensuite bathrooms, offering a space saving alternative to traditional hinged doors.
Idealcombi IC Sliding Door
Can Any Internal Door Be a Sliding Door?
Not all internal doors can be converted into sliding doors. This depends on the following:
Material: Solid wood, glass, and composite doors work well.
Thickness: Doors should be at least 35mm thick for durability.
Wall Space: Ensure you have enough clearance for the door to slide open.
If you’re considering converting an existing door into a sliding door, you may need to:
- Remove existing hinges and handles
- Attach a sliding track system
- Refinish the edges for a polished look
Common applications include:
- Bedroom entrances
- Bathroom doors
- Living room partitions
- Walk-in closets and wardrobes
For aesthetics and functionality, investing in a purpose built sliding door is often a better option than repurposing an old one.
How to Lock an Internal Sliding Door?
Securing an internal sliding door can be achieved through various locking mechanisms:
- Hook Locks: Engage into a strike plate when the door is closed, commonly used in residential settings.
- Latch Locks: Simple latches that secure the door from one side, suitable for areas like bathrooms.
- Keyed Locks: Provide higher security, allowing the door to be locked and unlocked with a key.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Sliding Glass Door?
The cost of installing a sliding glass door varies based on several factors:
- Type of Door: Standard models are more affordable, while custom designs or those with advanced features like enhanced security or energy efficiency can be pricier.
- Materials: Options include uPVC, aluminium, and wood, each with its own price point and maintenance requirements.
- Size: Larger doors or those requiring structural modifications will increase costs.
- Glazing: Double or triple glazing improves insulation but adds to the expense.
- Labour: Installation charges vary by region and the complexity of the project.
On average, homeowners might spend between £800 to £2500 for a standard sliding glass door installation. For more information check here – different types of sliding doors.For precise estimates, consult with sliding door installation professionals.
Choosing the Right Sliding Door for Your Space
Selecting the perfect sliding door depends on several factors, including functionality, aesthetics, and budget. Whether you’re looking for internal sliding doors to partition spaces or external sliding doors to enhance outdoor access, here are key considerations:
1. Space Availability
- If space is limited, low threshold sliding door are a great option.
- Barn-style doors are ideal for rooms without space for a traditional swing door but require exposed wall space for the door to slide.
2. Material and Style
- Aluminium sliding doors are durable, modern, and often used for external applications.
- Glass sliding doors maximise light and are popular for both internal and external use.
3. Security & Locking Mechanisms
- For internal glass sliding doors, consider hook or latch locks for privacy.
- External sliding doors should have multi-point locking systems for security.
Advantages and Disadvantages of TIlt and Turn Windows
Advantages
Save Space: Unlike hinged doors, sliding doors don’t require clearance, making them ideal for compact spaces.
Enhanced Natural Light: Glass sliding doors increase daylight exposure, creating a brighter, more open feel.
Modern Aesthetic: Sleek, contemporary designs complement various architectural styles.
Indoor To Outdoor Connection: External sliding doors seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor spaces.
Disadvantages
Maintenance Needs: Tracks and rollers must be cleaned regularly to prevent dust buildup and ensure smooth operation.
Limited Sound Insulation: While modern models offer improved insulation, traditional sliding doors may not be as soundproof as solid doors.
Idealcombi Sliding Doors
For those seeking high quality sliding door solutions, Idealcombi offers a range of options that blend Danish design with functionality.
Push Out Sliding Doors
Featuring sleek 53mm sightlines, these doors align seamlessly with Idealcombi’s Futura+ and Futura+i window systems, offering a cohesive and modern appearance. When closed, they present a flush, streamlined look that complements contemporary architectural designs.
The Idealcombi Futura+ single sliding door is a sleek and practical solution for bringing in fresh air and creating effortless access to your outdoor space.
The Idealcombi Futura+ double sliding door features a floating mullion that glides away, opening up a wide, unobstructed view – perfect for enjoying the outdoors from the comfort of your home.
Low Threshold Sliding Doors
Designed for seamless integration, these doors provide a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The low profile threshold can be embedded into both internal and external flooring, ensuring easy access for all users, including children and wheelchair users. The door operates effortlessly on double rollers, allowing the sliding sash to glide smoothly past the fixed pane with minimal effort.
The Idealcombi low threshold single sliding door is designed to seamlessly complement the Frame IC / Nation IC composite window series, opening smoothly with a single handle and gliding effortlessly on double rollers.
The Idealcombi low threshold double sliding door seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces, providing effortless access for the whole family. Designed for smooth operation, each sash glides easily on double rollers and locks securely with multi-point espagnolette locking for exceptional weather tightness.
PureView Sliding Doors
Engineered to maximise views with minimal visual obstruction, the PureView Sliding Door boasts an ultra slim 20mm frame, providing expansive, unobstructed vistas and flooding interiors with natural light. Unlike traditional sliding doors with bulky frames, the PureView design ensures a sleek, contemporary aesthetic that enhances both residential and commercial spaces. The doors are thermally efficient, maintaining indoor comfort while offering a seamless connection to outdoor environments.
Built for both style and security, the stainless steel track system supports large panels up to 4.2m wide and 3.2m high (max 9m² per panel), with matching fixed windows for architectural consistency. Engineered for flawless frame symmetry, the 75mm bottom frame sinks down to create flush floor levels, seamlessly aligning indoor and outdoor spaces.
Read more on PureView Sliding Doors.
Conclusion - Are Sliding Doors worth it?
Sliding doors are a stylish and practical solution for both interior and exterior spaces. Whether you’re considering internal or external sliding doors to enhance your home and create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, choosing the right door is key to optimising functionality and design.
Idealcombi offers a range of solutions tailored to modern living. Whether you need PureView sliding doors for panoramic views, push out sliding doors for a sleek finish, or low threshold options for accessibility, our designs are manufactured and tested in the wettest, coldest and windiest part of Denmark.