A Complete Guide to Different Sliding Patio Door Styles

Sliding patio doors are a popular choice for all homes, combining practicality and functionality with aesthetic appeal. There are various considerations to make before choosing your next sliding doors, such as the style of doors that would best suit your current home decor.

With different styles to choose from, our comprehensive guide will help you make the best decision.

What are Ultra-Slim Sliding Doors?

Ultra-slim aluminium sliding doors are a sleek, modern option for both internal and external use, designed to maximise natural light and create uninterrupted views. Their slim aluminium frames are strong yet minimal, offering a clean, contemporary aesthetic that integrates seamlessly into floors, walls and ceilings.

One of the main advantages of ultra-slim sliding doors is their ability to increase natural light thanks to minimal sightlines and expansive glazing. This makes spaces feel larger and brighter while maintaining a connection between rooms or with the outdoors. Their modern, minimalist design also suits a wide variety of interiors, from contemporary homes to renovated period properties.

Durability is another strength: aluminium is naturally resistant to corrosion, fading and warping, ensuring long-lasting performance with minimal upkeep. Internal sliding doors can be customised with options such as reeded or clear glass, multiple configurations, and finishes tailored to both modern and traditional styles.

Security is tailored to use: internal doors focus on safe operation, with toughened safety glass and smooth, stable tracks, while external systems incorporate robust frames, laminated glazing and multi-point locking for enhanced protection.

You can find out more about ultra-slim sliding doors in our previous guide here.

Why Should I Choose Lift and Slide Patio Doors?

Lift and slide patio doors are a stylish and practical option for modern homes, combining smooth operation with excellent thermal efficiency and security. Unlike standard sliding doors, they lift slightly off their tracks before gliding open, reducing friction and allowing even large, heavy doors to move effortlessly. This mechanism not only makes them easier to use but also enhances durability and creates a more airtight seal, contributing to improved insulation and energy performance.

Lift and slide sliding patio doors often feature robust locking mechanisms. Our Status range, for example, includes PAS24-accredited interlocks, providing added peace of mind. These doors are particularly well suited to wide openings, offering uninterrupted views and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, with a choice of colours and finishes to suit different architectural styles.

Costs vary depending on several factors: door size, frame materials, glazing type, and installation method. Aluminium and composite frames, while more expensive, offer long-term durability, whereas uPVC provides a more affordable option. Additional features, such as laminated glass, trickle vents, or bespoke handle finishes, also affect price. At Vufold, DIY-friendly installation can help keep overall costs down, with the Status range starting from £3,089.

When comparing lift and slide doors with inline sliding patio doors, the main difference lies in operation. Inline models simply glide along their tracks, which can result in more wear over time. Lift and slide doors, by contrast, lift clear of the frame, ensuring smoother movement and greater longevity.

To learn more about lift and slide sliding doors, please read our previous guide here.

An example of our Status lift-and-slide sliding patio doors, measuring 1.8m x 2.1m.

What Are Inline Sliding Doors?

Inline sliding doors are a popular choice for both internal and external spaces, offering a simple yet effective design. The panels glide along tracks using rollers, meaning no lifting is required, unlike lift and slide systems. Their straightforward operation and space-saving nature make them ideal for patios, as well as internal uses such as dividing bedrooms or offices.

One of the key advantages of inline sliding doors is their practicality. Because they don’t swing open, they are perfect for tighter spaces where circulation needs to be maintained. With slim aluminium frames, they provide durability and a modern look, available in finishes such as white, anthracite grey and jet black. They also operate smoothly, especially when fitted with quality tracks and soft-close mechanisms, offering a quieter alternative to hinged doors.

Inline sliding doors are designed with security and safety in mind. Multi-point locking systems and the option of laminated safety glass add extra protection. They are also easy to maintain, with fewer moving parts and accessible tracks that can be cleaned with minimal effort.

Costs vary depending on size, materials, and customisation. At Vufold, inline patio doors start from £2,209, rising to £5,189 for larger designs. Extras such as double opening, laminated glazing, trickle vents, cills, or full installation kits can add to the overall price, but also enhance functionality.

Discover more about inline sliding doors in our previous guide here.

Choosing the Right Sliding Patio Door for Your Home

Choosing the right sliding patio door involves balancing style, practicality, security, and budget. Here at Vufold, two main options are available: inline sliding doors and lift-and-slide patio doors, each offering distinct advantages.

Security is central to both ranges. Multi-point locking systems, PAS24-accredited locks, anti-lift tracks, and optional laminated safety glass all work to prevent forced entry and protect glazing. High-quality locks, either key-operated or thumb-turned, add extra reassurance.

Choosing the right size requires accurate measurements of width and height. Our sliding patio doors come in standard sizes but can also be made to measure. Panel configurations should be chosen based on space and lifestyle; wider panels give expansive views but may require advanced mechanisms for ease of use.

Customisation options include opening direction, frame colour (black, grey, or white), glass type, handle finish, trickle vents, and drainage features. With careful planning, sliding patio doors can be tailored to enhance both the style and functionality of your home.

You can find out more in our previous guide here.

An example of our Supreme inline sliding patio doors measuring 3m x 2.1m.

Choosing Modern Sliding Doors

A modern sliding door combines sleek design with practical performance, making it an ideal choice for contemporary living. Slim but durable aluminium frames maximise glass area, enhancing natural light and views without compromising strength. Our inline sliding doors feature ultra-slim 47mm sightlines, while lift-and-slide models seal tightly when closed, boosting insulation and durability. Both ranges are thermally efficient, with U-values as low as 1.4 W/m²K, and include Low-E double glazing as standard, with options such as laminated security glass and trickle vents.

The benefits of modern sliding doors extend beyond performance. They bring in more natural light, improve energy efficiency, and save space compared to hinged alternatives. Their wide glass panels create a seamless indoor–outdoor connection, ideal for entertaining or simply enjoying garden views. Low maintenance and lasting durability make them practical, while their clean lines and flexible finishes suit both contemporary and traditional homes.

At Vufold, two styles stand out: Supreme inline sliding doors, offering slim frames, smooth operation, and versatile formats, and Status lift-and-slide doors, designed for superior weather resistance, thermal performance, and long-term reliability. Both are available with bespoke sizes, glazing options, and colour finishes.

Find out more about choosing your next modern sliding door in our previous guide here.

A Complete Guide to Traditional Sliding Doors

Traditional sliding doors are a classic way to connect indoor and outdoor spaces while maximising light and saving space. Unlike hinged doors, they glide smoothly on a track, making them practical and easy to operate. Key components include large double-glazed glass panes, durable frames (commonly uPVC, timber or aluminium), and secure multi-point locking systems. Aluminium is often the preferred choice for strength, modern styling, and long-term durability, with options for different colours and finishes to suit your home.

Our Supreme inline sliding door range captures the essence of traditional sliding doors while incorporating contemporary features. Available in sizes from 1.8m x 2.1m up to 6m x 2.1m, with two- and three-door options, they can also be customised to fit individual requirements. Optional laminated security glass, colour finishes such as jet black, anthracite grey and white, and installation kits further enhance functionality and design. While uPVC and timber remain cost-effective alternatives, aluminium combines thermal efficiency with a modern aesthetic at competitive prices.

The benefits of traditional sliding doors are numerous. Their space-saving design makes them ideal for smaller rooms and tighter layouts, while their lightweight operation ensures ease of use. They are typically more cost-effective than advanced systems, with fewer mechanical parts keeping maintenance needs low. Beyond patios, they are versatile enough to be used indoors as partitions in offices, closets, or between living areas. Smooth, quiet functionality and a clean, minimal look mean they blend seamlessly with both contemporary and traditional interiors.