What are the Best Aluminium Sliding Doors? | Choosing the Right Doors for You

John Collins - Managing Director

Author: John Collins - Managing Director

Sliding patio doors are a popular choice in most UK homes due to their ease of opening, space-saving qualities and provision of natural light and uninterrupted views. Aluminium sliding doors in particular are a great choice for homes, with durable, secure and stylish qualities that ensure they last for years to come.

Aluminium sliding patio doors look great in both modern and traditional spaces, but which variations are available for you?

Are Aluminium Sliding Doors a Good Choice?

When choosing sliding patio doors for your home, aluminium options are the perfect choice. Reasons to opt for aluminium sliding doors include:

  • High durability: aluminium doesn’t warp or rot, making it ideal for the UK’s unpredictable weather.
  • Slim frames and modern look: this allows for large glass panels and a contemporary aesthetic.
  • Lots of natural light: wide glazing brings brightness into the home and creates a stronger connection to outdoor spaces.
  • Good energy efficiency: when fitted with quality glazing and a thermal-break frame, aluminium sliding doors can help retain heat.
  • Low maintenance: aluminium sliding doors only need occasional cleaning, so no painting or varnishing is required.
  • Smooth operation: quality systems offer easy, reliable sliding even with large panels.
  • Long lifespan: aluminium generally lasts longer than uPVC or timber alternatives.
  • Secure: modern aluminium frames can incorporate advanced locking systems for added security.
  • Higher initial cost: typically more expensive than uPVC, though often better value in the long term due to durability.
  • Performance varies by supplier: cheaper models may lack proper thermal breaks and be less efficient, so specification matters.

You can find out more about the benefits of aluminium sliding doors in our guide here.

What are the Main Features to Look for When Choosing an Aluminium Sliding Door?

Feature

What to Look For

Why It Matters

Thermally broken frame

Frame with internal thermal break

Prevents heat loss, improving energy efficiency

Quality glazing

Double glazing, low u-Value glass, insulated glass units

Enhances insulation, reduces energy bills, and increases comfort

Slim sightlines

Narrow, strong aluminium frames

Maximises natural light and creates a modern look

Smooth operation

High-quality rollers, durable track system

Ensures effortless opening and long-term reliability

Security features

Multi-point locks, PAS24 or similar certification

Improves home security and resistance to forced entry

Weatherproofing

Strong seals, effective drainage and weather-resistant design

Reduces drafts, prevents water ingress, improves comfort

Durable finish

Powder coating, corrosion-resistant materials

Low maintenance, long lifespan, no repainting required

Customisation options

Choice of colours, panel configurations, glazing styles

Helps the door suit your home's style and practical needs

What Sliding Door Styles are Available for Me?

At Vufold, we have three aluminium sliding door options available:

Supreme Inline Sliding Doors

Our Supreme aluminium sliding doors is our most affordable range, starting at £2,209 to £5,189 depending on the size you need. You can choose from jet black, anthracite grey and white frames, with optional extras such as double opening, laminated security glass and a bottom track with a cill.

COR vision slimline doors

COR Vision Slimline Sliding Doors

Our COR Vision sliding doors feature our slimmest sightlines, making way for more natural light and uninterrupted views. These doors are also available in black, grey and white, with the option for a dual grey and white finish. Prices range from £2,899 to £7,019.

2 door bifold door from exterior in white

Status Lift and Slide Doors

Our Status aluminium sliding doors operate using a lift-and-slide function, putting less pressure on the track. Like our COR Vision range, these doors come in jet black, anthracite grey and Hipca white with the option for a dual grey/white finish. Laminated security glass and external handles are available for an extra price.

bifold doors leading onto patio

Are Aluminium Sliding Doors Appropriate for Traditional Homes?

Aluminium sliding doors can be suitable for traditional homes, as long as the design is chosen carefully to complement the property’s character. While aluminium is often associated with modern architecture, it’s increasingly used in period homes because of its durability, slim sightlines and ability to bring in more natural light without taking away from the building’s traditional feel.

Many manufacturers offer neutral colours such as black and white, which sit comfortably alongside older brick or stonework. When chosen thoughtfully, aluminium sliding doors can enhance a traditional home by improving views, increasing natural light and boosting energy efficiency.

You can browse our full collection of aluminium sliding doors here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes an Aluminium Sliding Door Thermally Efficient?

A thermally efficient aluminium sliding door uses a thermal break within the frame and high-quality double glazing. These elements reduce heat transfer, prevent cold spots and help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.

Are There Design Options for Aluminium Sliding Doors Suitable for Modern Homes?

Yes, aluminium sliding doors are ideal for modern homes thanks to their slim frames, large glass panels and minimalist look. You can choose from various colours and finishes to create a clean, contemporary style.

How Do Lift and Slide Doors Differ from Standard Sliding Doors?

Lift and slide doors use a special mechanism that lifts the panel slightly off its seals before sliding. This makes them easier to operate and offers improved insulation compared with standard sliders.

Can Aluminium Sliding Doors Be Custom Made to Fit Any Size?

In most cases, aluminium’s strength allows for large, custom-sized panels and wide openings, making it suitable for anything from small patio doors to larger systems.

What Kind of Maintenance Do Aluminium Sliding Doors Require?

Regular cleaning of the frames and glass, occasional lubrication of tracks and rollers, and checking seals for debris is usually all that’s needed.

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John Collins - Operations Director

Author:

John Collins - Managing Director

About John Collins

John has built Vufold into a unique online door and window company and has spent 20 years bringing innovative products and designs to fruition, recognising niches in the market and placing them in the likes of Wickes and Travis Perkins, he started Vufold in order to sell them directly. John founded Vufold and has amassed a wealth of experience in product design and development, and in particular timber-based products

Read more about John Collins