Patio Doors

Patio doors are available in different frame materials, allowing homeowners to choose a system that works with their property and existing windows.

UPVC patio doors provide a practical option for many replacement projects. They require relatively little maintenance and can coordinate with UPVC windows elsewhere around the home. Different colours and woodgrain finishes allow the doors to suit traditional and modern properties. Aluminium patio doors are particularly well suited to larger areas of glazing. The strength of aluminium allows relatively slim frame sections, reducing the amount of frame visible between the glass panels.

This can provide a cleaner appearance and broader views through the doors when they are closed. Aluminium is therefore frequently chosen for contemporary homes, kitchen extensions and properties where maximising the glazed area is a priority. A wide range of frame colours and finishes may be available depending on the chosen system. South Lakes Windows can help you compare the available options and select patio doors that coordinate with your windows and other exterior features.

For larger openings, lift and slide patio doors provide another option.

A lift and slide system uses specialist hardware that raises the moving door panel slightly when the handle is operated. The panel can then slide along its track before lowering back into position when closed. This operating method is particularly useful for larger and heavier glazed panels. It allows substantial areas of glass to be incorporated into a door system while retaining controlled operation. Lift and slide doors can be considered for extensions and renovation projects where homeowners want wide views with fewer vertical frame sections across the opening. They also provide an alternative to bi-folding doors. Bi-fold doors divide the opening into several narrower panels that fold together, while sliding systems can use larger individual panes of glass. For homeowners who prioritise the view through the doors while they are closed, a sliding system may therefore be the preferred choice.

Our team can discuss the differences between standard patio doors, lift and slide doors and bi-folding doors to help you identify the right option for your home.

With such a large proportion of glass, thermal performance is an important consideration when choosing new patio doors. Modern double glazed patio doors use insulated glazing units to reduce heat transfer through the glass. Low-emissivity glass and insulating gas within the sealed units may also form part of the chosen glazing specification.

The frame contributes to overall thermal performance as well. Modern aluminium systems use thermal breaks to reduce heat transfer through the metal, while suitable UPVC systems use insulated frame construction. Good weather sealing is particularly important for sliding doors. The system needs to resist wind and rain while allowing the moving panels to operate correctly. South Lakes Windows can discuss relevant U-values and glazing specifications when helping you compare different patio door systems.

The orientation of the doors should also be considered. Large areas of south or west-facing glazing can receive considerable direct sunlight. Where necessary, suitable glazing can help manage solar gain. Safety glass is required in appropriate locations, while laminated glass may be considered where additional impact resistance or security is wanted. Acoustic glazing can also be discussed for properties affected by external noise.

Older sliding patio doors can become difficult to operate as rollers, tracks and frames wear. Replacing them with a modern system can make a considerable difference to everyday use. Quality rollers and track systems allow the moving panels to slide smoothly, while modern handles and locking systems provide straightforward operation.

Security is also an important part of the specification. Modern patio doors use appropriate locking mechanisms to secure the moving panels when closed. The exact locking arrangement depends on the selected door system. Correct installation is essential. A large sliding panel needs an accurately positioned and level frame if it is to move properly. Poor alignment can make the door difficult to slide and may prevent it from closing correctly against its seals. Thresholds, drainage and external ground levels also need consideration, particularly where homeowners want easy movement between the house and patio.

Patio doors can form an important part of a larger home improvement project.

In a kitchen or living extension, wide sliding doors can provide natural light and garden access without requiring space for hinged doors to open. This can give homeowners more freedom when planning furniture and kitchen layouts. Patio doors can also be incorporated into conservatories and orangeries, where large glazed openings complement the windows and roof glazing used elsewhere in the structure.

South Lakes Windows can consider the doors alongside other elements of the project, including windows, roof lanterns, skylights and replacement roof systems.

For homeowners deciding between patio, French and bi-folding doors, the available opening and intended use of the room provide a useful starting point. French doors provide a traditional paired opening, bi-fold doors can open a large proportion of the overall width, while sliding patio doors retain larger uninterrupted areas of glass.