A Complete Guide to Traditional Sliding Doors | Benefits, Styles and Comparisons

Traditional sliding doors are a popular choice amongst homeowners; they save more space than doors that swing open on hinges, and are made from large glass panes that bring extra light into any home. Sliding doors have evolved over the years, ranging from practical patio doors to internal dividers, as well as changing from a simple sliding mechanism to a more secure lift-and-slide operation. When choosing the best sliding doors for your home, traditional sliding doors could be a great option.

Explore our full guide to discover more about traditional sliding doors, including how they compare to modern sliding doors, the different styles available, and the many benefits.

Explore our full guide to discover more about traditional sliding doors, including how they compare to modern sliding doors, the different styles available, and the many benefits.

What is a Traditional Sliding Door?

A traditional sliding door, or traditional patio door, creates a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor, saving space and maximising light. They are manufactured to roll on a track, making them a more practical option than swinging doors. Other components that traditional sliding doors include:

• Large glass panes: traditional patio door glass panes are generally double-glazed; our Supreme inline sliding patio doors come with laminated security glass as an optional extra
• Frames: traditional sliding door frames are made from uPVC, timber or aluminium. For a stronger, durable sliding door, opt for aluminium frames.
• Rolling track: for ease of movement, traditional sliding doors glide on a track, complete with a secure multi-point locking system.

You can still choose traditional sliding door options that have all of these components with a modern look by opting for doors that have aluminium frames and different colour options to choose from.

Our Supreme inline sliding door collection boasts all of the components of a traditional sliding patio door, as well as various colour finishes to choose from and the option to add laminated security glass.

What Styles of Traditional Sliding Doors are Available for Me?

There are various traditional sliding door options available, depending on your personal preferences as well as your home’s existing decor. Our Supreme sliding patio door range is considered a more traditional sliding door collection when compared to our lift-and-slide patio doors. However, they boast modern elements such as aluminium frames and various finishes to suit a contemporary environment.

Our Supreme sliding patio doors range in sizes from 1.8m x 2.1m to 6m x 2.1m with two- and three-door options; we also offer bespoke sliding door builder quotes if you can’t find the size you’re looking for. Supreme sliding patio doors are also easy to install, and come with optional installation kits to improve the ease of installation.

There are uPVC and timber options available if you have a tight budget or have insulation high on your list of priorities. However, aluminium not only adds a modern touch to your sliding patio doors, but also retains heat just as well as timber, and can be incredibly cost-effective. You can browse our full collection of aluminium doors here.

What are the Benefits of Traditional Sliding Doors?

Sliding doors come highly recommended for patios. Their many benefits include:

• Space-Saving: instead of swinging open, the doors roll along a track, making them ideal for smaller rooms and tighter layouts. They’re also easy to manoeuvre, ensuring they’re a great choice for any home.
• Easy to Operate: traditional sliding patio doors are more lightweight than lift-and-slide doors, requiring less effort.
• Cost-Effective: as a popular sliding door option, traditional sliding doors are cost-effective when compared to automatic systems. They have fewer mechanical parts, which results in lower maintenance costs.
• Versatile Applications: as well as being a great patio door option, sliding doors can also be used internally for closets, offices and other interior partitions.
• Smooth, Quiet Function: traditional sliding doors move easily without loud hinges or slamming
• Aesthetic Simplicity: traditional sliding patio doors present a clean, minimal design that blends with both modern and traditional interiors.
• Low Maintenance: since they have fewer moving parts than more complex systems, they are much easier to maintain. Occasional track cleaning and roller adjustment are usually all that is needed.

Our largest inline sliding door option is 6m x 2.1m, available in jet black, anthracite grey and white. View our full collection of inline sliding patio doors here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Traditional Sliding Doors Easy to Install?

Yes, traditional sliding doors are generally straightforward to install. They run on a simple track system, which requires less structural work than more complex lift-and-slide designs. Our sliding patio doors are so easy to install that you can do it yourself with the right tools.

Can Traditional Sliding Doors Be Used for Patio Entrances?

Yes, in fact, traditional sliding doors are a popular choice for patios and garden entrances. They provide a wide opening for easy access and allow plenty of natural light into the home.

When Would Traditional Patio Doors Not Be Suited for My Home?

Traditional sliding doors may not be ideal if you live in an area exposed to harsh weather, require exceptional thermal efficiency, or prioritise maximum security. In these cases, a lift-and-slide or bi-fold system may provide better insulation, weatherproofing, and locking options. Our traditional sliding doors offer U-values of 1.6 W/m2K, providing exceptional thermal efficiency.

How Does a Traditional Sliding Door Compare to a Modern Sliding Door?

Traditional sliding doors use a basic track system and are valued for their simplicity, affordability, and ease of use. Modern sliding doors, by contrast, often feature improved sealing, thermal insulation, and security mechanisms. They may also include larger glass panels and slim frames for a more contemporary appearance.

How Much Do Traditional Sliding Doors Cost?

Traditional sliding doors are typically more affordable than modern alternatives. Prices vary depending on size, frame material, and glazing choice, but they generally represent one of the most cost-effective patio door solutions. Installation costs are also usually lower due to the simplicity of the system.

Related Content

• What are Ultra-Slim Aluminium Sliding Doors?

• What are Inline Sliding Doors?

• A Complete Guide to Modern Sliding Doors