Why Should I Choose a Sliding Aluminium Door? | Benefits and Comparisons

When choosing sliding patio doors for your home, aluminium frames are a popular, durable and stylish choice, especially for contemporary homes. Aluminium sliding doors are the perfect choice for homeowners looking to improve their modern aesthetic, as well as improve security and thermal efficiency. However, there are other options available, so how do they compare?

Explore our guide and make the right choice when looking for aluminium sliding patio doors.

What are the Main Benefits of Aluminium Sliding Doors?

If you’re considering aluminium sliding doors for your home, compare these main benefits before making your choice:

• Durability: aluminium is highly resistant to warping, rusting and corrosion, ensuring it has a long-life span and making it perfect for external use.
• Low maintenance: unlike other materials, aluminium doesn’t require any repainting or sealing, and is easy to clean.
• They present a modern aesthetic: their slim frames and larger glass panels let in more natural light, creating a more modern look.
• Space-saving: sliding patio doors don’t require any swing space, and instead roll on a track, making them ideal for smaller spaces.
• Security details: because aluminium is strong, it’s the ideal option for better security. When paired with multi-point locking systems and laminated security glass, aluminium sliding doors can prove to be a great asset to your home.
• They’re energy efficient: aluminium frames, especially when incorporated with thermal breaks, can keep homes warm in the winter, which in turn can contribute to lower energy bills.

Our COR Vision sliding patio doors come with ultra slim aluminium frames and thermal breaks, alongside integrated handles for a minimalist look. These sliding doors are the perfect choice for modern homes, maximising natural light within the home and keeping a modest aesthetic.

How Do Aluminium Sliding Doors Compare to uPVC and Timber Options?

What Should I Consider Before Choosing Aluminium Sliding Doors?

Here are the key points to consider before choosing aluminium sliding patio doors:

• Quality of Aluminium: choose thermally broken aluminium for strength and durability. Ensure it has a powder-coated finish for better corrosion resistance.
• Thermal Efficiency: check the overall U-value to ensure good insulation and energy efficiency. Our sliding doors have U-values as low as 1.4 W/m2k.
• Glazing Options: consider double glazing or laminated security glass for improved energy efficiency, sound insulation and security.
• Security Features: ensure multi-point locking systems are included that are designed to meet PAS24 standards.
• Ease of Operation: check the smoothness of the sliding mechanism and quality of rollers. Our Status lift and slide doors are the optimal choice for easy opening and closing.
• Aesthetic Appeal: consider frame colour, style, and profile thickness to match your home’s design. Slim frames like our COR Vision range provide a modern look and maximise natural light.
• Size and Configuration: consider the maximum panel size available and whether it fits your opening.

For larger sizes, our Status lift and slide patio doors can be as large as 6m x 2.1m, maximising light in your space with slim sightlines for uninterrupted views.

What Style Options are Available for my Aluminium Sliding Doors?

At Vufold, we have three sliding door style options available: Supreme, Status and COR Vision.

Our Supreme inline sliding patio doors have slim 47mm sightlines with finishes in white, jet black and anthracite grey as standard. They come with various opening configurations, and U-values of 1.6 W/m2k for excellent thermal efficiency. You can also opt for laminated security glass and trickle vents for background ventilation if you wish.

Our Status lift and slide patio doors, similar to our Supreme collection, has various colour and opening configuration options, with large panels and slim sightlines for a wider view. The “lift and slide” mechanism means the door lifts and then glides seamlessly, allowing for ultra smooth operation and good thermal performance.

Our COR Vision sliding patio doors feature our slimmest sightlines, as low as 20mm for a maximum glass effect. Multiple colours are available, plus dual colours to fit your aesthetic. These doors, however, do not have the option for laminated security glass.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Aluminium Sliding Patio Doors More Secure Than Other Options?

Yes. Modern aluminium sliding patio doors are highly secure thanks to their strong metal frames, multi-point locking systems, and laminated glazing. Many models meet PAS 24 standards, offering excellent protection compared to older uPVC or timber doors.

What Makes Sliding Doors Better for Patios?

Sliding doors save space because they glide rather than swing open, making them ideal for patios and garden areas. They offer wide, uninterrupted views, allow more natural light indoors, and create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Are Aluminium Sliding Doors More Energy Efficient?

Yes, especially when fitted with thermal breaks and double glazing. These features reduce heat transfer through the frame and glass, helping to keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Always check the U-value for efficiency ratings.

Are There Any Downsides to Aluminium Sliding Doors?

The main drawbacks are the higher upfront cost compared to uPVC. However, they are long-lasting, low-maintenance, and often better value over time. Some sliding doors, like ours at Vufold, can also be easily installed, so you don’t need to pay for professional installation.

What are Some Common Reasons Homeowners Prefer Aluminium Sliding Doors?

Homeowners often choose aluminium sliding doors for their:

• Slim frames and modern, stylish appearance
• Durability and weather resistance
• Low maintenance compared with timber alternatives
• Smooth operation and space-saving design
• Customisable colours and finishes to match any home style