What are the Benefits of Aluminium and Glass Sliding Doors?
Author: John Collins - Managing Director
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Pairing aluminium frames with double glazing or laminated glass in sliding patio doors creates a secure, durable entryway into your home. Powder-coated aluminium frames are a modern, long-lasting option to ensure your sliding doors are a worthwhile investment, whereas double glazed glass is great for controlling sound quality and thermal efficiency.
Along with thermal breaks and the different finishes available, sliding doors are the perfect choice when choosing patio doors.
In this guide:
Discover the benefits of the pairing of aluminium frames and double-glazed glass
Although aluminium sliding doors are a great choice for homes, there may be some disadvantages to be aware of
Compare different glazing and colour options for your aluminium sliding patio doors
Compare aluminium frames with other materials such as timber and uPVC
We answer some common queries
What are the Benefits of Pairing Aluminium with Glass for Sliding Doors?
Using aluminium frames with glass for sliding doors combines the strengths of both materials. Some key benefits include:
- Slim sightlines and large glass areas: aluminium’s high strength-to-weight ratio lets manufacturers build very slim frames, meaning more glass and less metal. That gives you larger windows and unobstructed views. Our COR Vision sliding doors feature our slimmest sightlines available, measuring just 20mm.
- Modern style: slim aluminium frames with expansive glass panels look contemporary and clean, creating a modern aesthetic that suits many new builds or renovated homes.
- Excellent energy performance with proper glazing: when combined with double-glazed (or optionally laminated) glass, modern aluminium sliding doors can offer impressive insulation. For example, our ranges achieve low U-values (as low as 1.4 W/m²K), meaning they help keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer.
- More natural light and connection with outdoors: large glass panels let in more daylight, creating a bright, airy interior and a seamless view of the garden or patio.
- Flexibility and space-saving design: sliding doors don’t swing open like traditional hinged doors; they glide horizontally. This saves space and is especially useful where there’s limited room inside or outside.
- Optional enhanced safety and security: glass can be upgraded to laminated security glass, while aluminium frames can be fitted with multi-point locking systems to improve security. Our aluminium sliding patio doors, for instance, promote superior security with our locks that meet essential requirements.
- Long-term durability and low maintenance: aluminium resists warping, rot, swelling or degradation that can affect wood. It’s also corrosion-resistant and doesn’t need frequent painting or sealing.
- Sustainability and recyclability: aluminium is highly recyclable, and its production has a relatively low environmental impact compared with some other materials.
Our COR Vision sliding patio door range, with its super slim sightlines, priorities natural light, uninterrupted views and unmatched style when incorporated into modern homes.
Are There Any Disadvantages to Aluminium and Glass Sliding Doors?
While highly advantageous, aluminium and glass sliding doors do have some considerations:
- Cost: aluminium doors are typically more expensive than basic uPVC or timber options, though their long-term durability often justifies the investment.
- Thermal conduction: aluminium conducts heat efficiently, so doors without a thermal break may allow heat to escape or enter. Choosing modern doors with thermal breaks resolves this issue.
- Opening width: sliding doors do not open the full width of the frame, as one panel always overlaps. If a completely open space is desired, folding door systems may be preferable.
What Glazing and Finish Should I Choose for My Sliding Patio Doors?
The choice of glazing and finish will influence energy efficiency, security, and style. Double glazing is standard and provides excellent insulation. For added security or sound reduction, laminated glass is a worthwhile upgrade. Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings further improve thermal performance, reflecting internal heat back into the room. Laminated glass is available in our Supreme and Status sliding patio door ranges.
Aluminium frames are available in a range of colours and finishes. At Vufold, we offer options like grey, black, white, and dual-colour frames that can be different inside and out, allowing homeowners to match both interior decor and exterior aesthetics. Proper seals and weather-stripping are also crucial to maintain insulation and prevent draughts.
Our Supreme external sliding doors come in black, grey or white, perfect for matching both modern and traditional home settings.
Are Aluminium and Glass Sliding Doors More Durable When Compared to Other Materials?
Yes, aluminium frames are resistant to warping and corrosion, making them more durable than timber. Powder-coated finishes provide long-lasting protection, while the aluminium itself remains the same under changes in temperature and weather. Aluminium doors also require minimal maintenance, such as a simple wipe of the tracks and glass. With a lifespan of 40–60 years, aluminium sliding doors are a sound long-term investment.
Another advantage is that aluminium maintains its structural integrity even in larger doors or heavier glazing options. Unlike uPVC, which can flex over time, aluminium frames remain rigid, supporting large glass panels without compromising performance. This stability ensures that doors continue to operate smoothly for many years, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or commercial spaces as well as homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Aluminium and Glass Sliding Doors Improve Energy Efficiency?
Thermal breaks, double glazing, Low-E coatings, and proper sealing all help reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, lowering energy bills.
How Can Aluminium Sliding Doors Improve the Aesthetics of Modern Homes?
Slim aluminium frames and large glass panels create a clean, contemporary look. They enhance natural light and provide a seamless connection to outdoor spaces.
Do Aluminium and Glass Sliding Doors Improve Natural Light?
Yes, the slim sightlines of aluminium frames allow for larger glass panels, flooding rooms with daylight and brightening interior spaces.
Are Aluminium and Glass Sliding Doors Low Maintenance?
Aluminium resists rot and warping, and the powder-coated finish is durable. Regular cleaning and maintenance of seals and tracks is generally all that’s required.
What Security Features Do Aluminium and Glass Doors Provide?
Laminated security glass and multi-point locking systems increase resistance to forced entry, making aluminium sliding doors a safe option.
Can Aluminium Glass Sliding Doors Be Used for Both Homes and Offices?
Yes, their combination of modern style, durability, and security makes them suitable for domestic homes as well as commercial or office settings.
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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