Your new home is just about finished, and now you need to decide on a door for the patio. The problem is that you are stuck and can’t decide on the type to get.
Do you pick a traditional door made from wood so it’s durable and lasts forever? Or do you go for sliding doors that will save space?
These two door types certainly have their differences, and so this article helps provide an informed decision that suits your needs and lifestyle.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation
Double glazed sliding doors provide better insulation than conventional single-glazed doors. They are effectively two layers of glass with an inert gas held between the two, thus halting heat transfer and retaining indoor temperature.
Double glazing should reduce your energy consumption for heating and cooling by up to 30%, according to the Australian Government’s Your Home guide. Traditional doors—especially if they’re glass doors with single panes or timber doors—are generally ineffective at keeping heat in, contributing to inflated energy bills. For homes in areas with very hot summers and very cold winters, the thermal characteristics of double glazing can have the biggest impact.
Cost Considerations
Traditional doors usually have a cheaper initial purchasing cost. An ordinary timber or aluminium door could be much more affordable, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars. Double-glazed sliding doors are more expensive at the time of purchase due to the advanced manufacturing processes and higher-quality materials used. But they will ultimately save money in the long run because they are more energy efficient.
Maintenance and Durability
Double-glazed sliding doors require very little maintenance. Sealed glass panels help eliminate condensation and mould buildup, both of which are common problems with traditional wooden doors in humid conditions when subjected to humid conditions.
Contrary to timber doors that require repetitive sanding, painting, and sealing, double-glazed doors based on aluminium and uPVC frames do not warp, crack, or corrode.
Aesthetic Appeal and Space-Saving Benefits
Sliding doors also give an open, modern style and allow maximum natural light. Their space-saving design makes them perfect for homes with limited space for a conventional swinging door. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels offer unencumbered views of the outdoors, merging indoor and outdoor living environments. Elephant doors, which typically have a solid timber or decorative panel design usually found in heritage-style homes, can look too bulky for contemporary homes.
Conclusion
Double-glazed sliding doors are energy efficient, durable, secure, and beautiful and are a worthy investment for homeowners in Australia. On the surface, traditional doors may seem like a cheap option, but double-glazing models offer long-term savings that doors do not.
Looking to upgrade your doors? Get in touch with a local supplier about double-glazed sliding doors that suit your aims at home.
