Factors To Consider When Selecting Sliding Doors
June 16, 2025
Sliding doors can connect your home’s interiors and exteriors and enhance the look of your property. Learn the factors to consider when selecting sliding doors.
Factors to consider when selecting sliding doors
17 June 2025
It’s little wonder that sliding doors are so popular among homeowners. These doors provide a sleek aesthetic and allow residents to enjoy the stunning views of their properties. They also offer practical benefits, such as energy efficiency and weather resilience. It’s important to know the factors to consider before committing to an installation. This guide can help you by teaching you how to select sliding doors for your home.
Consider the Frame Material
The sliding door’s frame material can affect the whole door’s durability and visual appeal. It also determines how much maintenance you must provide for your doors. Aluminum is a popular option and offers a sleek, contemporary look and great structural integrity. It also resists corrosion, making it a good choice for exterior applications.
Aluminum sliding door frames can last at least 20 years, allowing you to enjoy considerable savings in repairs or replacements. In fact, you won’t have to worry about either for a long time since aluminum frames are so durable! After you determine your home’s needs, you can select the material that best complements your space while meeting your lifestyle requirements.
Choose the Right Design
Another factor to consider when selecting sliding doors is the design of the doors themselves. This can play a pivotal role in how well the doors harmonize aesthetically with your home’s interior or exterior décor. For example, if your home has a contemporary look, you may want to consider installing an Artisan sliding door, which has a modern appearance. Additionally, these doors can be particularly beneficial for those who wish to let in natural light and fully appreciate the scenic landscapes on their properties.
Door configuration also affects usability. Some designs feature standard horizontal slide-to-open functionality, while others incorporate telescoping panels to create a large opening. You should also consider where you will place the door and how its design will integrate with the surrounding space so you can achieve an elegant and functional result.
Pick the Right Glass
Your choice of glass can also affect the look and operation of your sliding doors. For example, if you’re interested in letting in natural light but don’t want neighbors to have a clear view into your house, consider choosing obscured or reeded glass for your doors.
If you want to make your home more sustainable, consider Low-E dual-pane glass. It will help you save energy and reduce your utility bills because you won’t have to call on your HVAC as much to regulate your home’s internal temperature. The coating on this glass will also prevent the sun from creating an irritating glare and protect your furniture from fading while preventing heat transfer.
Find the Best Finish
The finish of sliding doors is just as important as their material and design, as it can alter their aesthetic and durability. A high-quality finish protects the door from environmental elements, including moisture, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations.
For example, when buying custom aluminum doors, you may want to invest in a dark bronze anodized finish that will catch the eye while protecting it from rust. On the other end of the scale, you may want to try a clear anodized finish that will give a much lighter appearance to the doors while protecting the aluminum from damage.
RAM Windows & Doors offers both of these finish options and many more to our customers. By investing in the ideal finish, your doors will remain in good shape.
Don’t Overlook the Sill
Although you may not look at the sliding doors’ sill as much as the doors themselves, it is another factor you should consider before installation. It greatly affects the functionality of the sliding system. Acting as the base or track on which the sliding panel moves, the sill ensures smooth operation and provides a seal to keep out the elements, such as water, air, and debris. In addition, it minimizes drafts and thermal transfer.
Select a sill material that will hold up to harsh weather and provide reliable performance over time. It’s also wise to consider the design of the sill before adding it to your home. For example, if you live with children, older adults, or individuals with mobility challenges, you may want to select a flush sill. This will provide seamless transitions without creating tripping hazards. Balancing these practical considerations with the door’s aesthetic guarantees that the sill complements your space while meeting your functional requirements.
Look for Customization Options
When searching for sliding doors, look for manufacturers with customization options. For example, you could use multi-panel configurations while selecting the height for the doors. Your ability to choose these measurements ensures that your sliding doors fit your space perfectly. Work with your door supplier to explore all available options and create a design that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle.
Research the Manufacturer’s Reputation
Another important step to take when shopping for sliding doors is to purchase from a reputable brand. Doing so will allow you to obtain the highest quality and value for your investment. Established manufacturers offer superior materials, advanced engineering, and warranties.
Research the manufacturer’s history and customer reviews to assess their credibility and consistency in delivering quality products and installations. A reputable company will provide specifications about the construction and testing standards of their doors so that you can make an informed choice for your home.
Additionally, inquire about customer support offered by the manufacturer. Accessible support channels and responsive service teams demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction. Working with suppliers who have extensive experience and a good reputation guarantees great results.
Sliding doors offer form and function, enhancing your space’s aesthetic appeal while providing practical benefits. By considering your options carefully, you will be in a better position to find the ideal sliding doors for your home.
RAM Windows & Doors has a strong reputation for delivering high-quality aluminum doors. Contact us about our artisan or curated sliding doors today so we can enhance the look and feel of your residence while boosting its level of luxury.
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