Sliding Patio Door Guarantees | Choosing the Best Sliding Door Supplier

As an entryway into your home, external sliding doors take more wear and tear than your internal doors; they withstand the elements year after year and are built to last even with years of operation. However, poorly made sliding doors won’t last as long as they should, making them a poor investment.

Opting for sliding patio doors with a long guarantee can highlight the confidence a manufacturer has in their product, giving you extra peace of mind.

Do Sliding Patio Doors Have a Warranty?

Sliding patio doors usually come with a warranty or guarantee, but the exact coverage varies between manufacturers. Most reputable suppliers offer protection against manufacturing faults, material defects, and issues with hardware or glazing.

Most brands provide around 10 years of cover on the main door frame, while glass units and moving parts may have their own guarantee periods. These warranties normally depend on correct installation, proper maintenance, and the product being used as intended. Cosmetic wear, accidental damage and problems caused by poor installation are generally excluded.

At Vufold, our sliding patio doors include a 10-year guarantee on the aluminium frame, glazing and hardware, along with up to 15 years on the powder-coated finish, depending on the specific range. This provides long-term reassurance and reflects the durability and build quality of their products.

Our COR Vision slimline sliding patio doors feature our slimmest sightlines, making way for more natural light and uninterrupted views. These particular aluminium sliding doors come with a 15-year guarantee.

What are Some Common Problems with Sliding Doors?

Common problems that can arise with external sliding doors include:

• Sticking or difficult-to-slide panels: caused by worn rollers, dirt in the track, or misalignment.
• Roller or track wear: this can lead to grinding and wobbling.
• Faulty or loose locks and handles: this makes the door hard to operate.
• Condensation between the glass panes: this usually indicates a failed double-glazed unit.
• Draughts or poor sealing: often due to worn weatherstrips or misfitted panels.
• Frame warping or movement: more common in older timber doors or poorly installed units. Opting for aluminium sliding doors is the better option.
• Gaps or difficulty closing fully: often linked to alignment issues or hardware failure.
• Scratches, dents or cosmetic damage: these can develop over time or from heavy use.
• Flaking or fading of the finish: especially on lower-quality powder coatings or painted surfaces.

What is the Average Cost of Replacing Sliding Doors?

The cost of replacing sliding patio doors in the UK varies depending on the material, size, glazing and installation requirements. As a general guide, most homeowners can expect to pay £1,350 to £3,550 for the supply and installation of a standard replacement door. uPVC options tend to sit at the lower end of the scale (around £800–£1,500), while aluminium and high-performance systems are usually between £1,500 and £3,000+ due to their durability and security features. Optional extras such as laminated security glass can increase the price further.

Our aluminium sliding patio door starting prices are between £2,209 and £3,089. While final costs depend on the configuration and specifications chosen, our prices reflect our focus on slim aluminium frames, high-quality glazing and durable powder-coated finishes.

You can find out more about aluminium sliding door costs in our previous guide.

Supreme, our most affordable collection of external sliding doors, start from just £2,209 on our 1.8m x 2.1m doors. This range is available in jet black, anthracite grey and white, perfect for modern and traditional homes alike.

What Does a Sliding Door Guarantee Usually Cover?

Common issues with sliding patio doors are usually minor, but some can fall under a warranty or guarantee if they relate to manufacturing faults or defective parts. Typical problems include:

• Misaligned or sticking doors: caused by defective rollers, warped frames, or manufacturing faults, making the door hard to slide.
• Faulty rollers or worn tracks: results in grinding, resistance, or the door jumping the track; often covered if the hardware fails prematurely.
• Problems with locks or handles: includes broken, loose, or malfunctioning mechanisms linked to defective components.
• Condensation between glass panes: indicates a failed glazing seal, typically covered under glass guarantees.
• Frame warping or structural defects: rare with aluminium frames but may be covered if due to manufacturing issues.
• Peeling or discoloured powder coating: premature flaking or fading of the finish, often protected by a separate surface-finish guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Typical Sliding Door Guarantees Last?

Most sliding patio door guarantees last between 5 and 10 years; at Vufold, our guarantees go up to 15 years.

Are Glass-Related Issues Included in Sliding Door Guarantees?

Usually, issues like misted or failed double-glazed units are commonly covered. However, accidental damage, scratches or impacts are normally excluded.

How Can I Make a Claim Through My Sliding Patio Door Guarantee?

Contact the installer or manufacturer with your proof of purchase, guarantee paperwork, photos of the issue and a clear description of the problem. They will advise on assessment and next steps.

What Maintenance is Required to Keep My Sliding Patio Door Guarantee?

Regularly clean the tracks, lubricate moving parts, keep drainage holes clear and avoid using harsh chemicals.

Are There Differences Between Warranties and Guarantees for Sliding Patio Doors?

Yes, a guarantee is often a free promise from the manufacturer to repair or replace defects, while a warranty may be a more formal or paid-for protection plan with specific terms and limitations.

RELATED CONTENT

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• How to Improve Sliding Door Security with Hardware

• Why Should I Choose a Sliding Aluminium Door?

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