" Sliding and folding door features are naturally aesthetic in design and are often used to enhance the style and layout of modern spaces ."
Sliding doors , on the other hand , are usually constructed of fewer and larger panels . As such , even when closed , a sliding door feature can provide clearer , uninterrupted views , which is fitting for those with access to year-round idyllic scenery . When operated , the panels of a sliding door will open , usually on the internal side of a fixed panel or wall . In doing so , users have a tidier opening , free of stacked panels that would otherwise take up space , which is useful in more compact areas of the home . When pressed for space at the side of the required opening , a ‘ telescope ’ opening can also be utilised , which consists of narrower panels that require less space at the side of the door .
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
In any case , sliding and bi-fold door applications can offer superior functionality , visual appeal and space-saving capabilities when compared with traditional swing doors . These universal benefits have encouraged a growth of options in sliding and folding door systems , and alongside the different sizes , styles and configurations , it ’ s important to consider where a door may be placed and who may be using it .
With exterior doors for example , a bi-fold system with single open access may offer greater ease of access into the outdoors , regardless of setting . Bi-fold door applications can open outwards or inwards and may be applied to both large and small openings . Where fully open bi-fold doors are useful in larger settings or group gatherings , ‘ traffic ’ door configurations allow users to move through a single panel and remove the need to fold each panel back . In comparison , external sliding doors offer a straightforward solution for all requirements , whereby users may simply slide their door open to the amount that ’ s required at the time .
Inside , both folding and sliding door features can elevate the visual appearance of a building , with spaces made to feel more open and airier . Alternatively , during winter spells , spaces can become cozier by closing off entire rooms and prioritising warm working and living areas . Flexibility aside , daily use is another consideration to make when it comes to internal doors . Bi-fold and sliding systems are often lightweight in design and easy to use , with sliding doors safer to operate . With a sliding motion , users eliminate the need to open doors into the direction of foot traffic whilst also removing the potential finger trapping risks that come with slamming doors - making them a suitable option for buildings where children are present , especially when a soft-close device is utilised . For modern living areas where floorspace is limited , sliding doors can also save noticeable amounts of room , and as such , are often utilised in small flats , medical environments and student accommodation . To maximise space even further , pocket doors offer an additional benefit of disappearing into the wall when not required , freeing up valuable wall space that a standard sliding door application would normally require .
For those on the fence , it ’ s essential to review what may be best suited to your building by taking into account the whole picture and not only opting for a stylised approach . Sliding and folding doors can add value in a number of areas by sharing key advantages , several dissimilarities and a unique set of benefits . With that said , decision makers are urged to review these key considerations when making their choice - only then can one ensure their chosen hardware is practical in application .
www . allegion . com
DOORS , WINDOWS & FITTINGS
51