How to choose PATIO DOORS

Patio doors come in many styles, materials and configurations. Some tend to be better suited to traditional homes, whilst others are the mainstay of more contemporary houses — and others span the bridge between the two. Then there is the matter of their performance, price and maintenance requirements to take into account. Here we outline the options along with their pros and cons.

SLIDING DOORS

As the name suggests, sliding doors operate by sliding from one side of the frame to the other. Unlike bifolds, they don’t allow a 100% clear opening, although a pocket door (see overleaf) makes this a possibility. Usually they are configured to provide a half, two-third or three-quarter openings. Where sliding doors have the edge over bifolds is the unimpaired views they allow for — less frame means more glazing. They also require no stacking space inside or out.

CORNER DOORS

Glazed doors that are configured in a 90° corner system are perfect for opening up an entire room to the outside space.

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