Sliding Patio Doors

With exceptional thermal efficiency aluminium sliding patio doors are a great option for any home. Our sliding aluminium patio doors create a beautiful transition from the indoors to the outdoors and offer a modern aesthetic. For something more traditional, check out uPVC sliding patio doors.

uPVC Sliding Patio Doors

Choose uPVC sliding patio doors for a secure gateway between your indoor and outdoor living spaces. These doors are glazed with energy-efficient Low E toughened safety glass, providing insulation and reducing energy costs. Looking for something more contemporary? Shop our aluminium sliding patio doors.

FAQs:

Which is better uPVC or aluminium patio doors?

Choosing between uPVC and aluminium patio doors depends on various factors including aesthetics, durability, energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, and cost. Here's a comparison of the two:

Aesthetics: Both uPVC and aluminium patio doors offer sleek and modern designs. However, aluminium frames typically offer slimmer sightlines, allowing for larger glass panels and a more contemporary look.

Durability: Aluminium is generally more robust and can withstand harsh weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold, without warping or corroding. uPVC patio doors are also very durable but may not fair as well over time as aluminium.

Energy Efficiency: uPVC is a better insulator than aluminium, which means uPVC patio doors generally offer better energy efficiency by helping to keep heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer. However, aluminium doors can be equipped with thermal breaks to improve their energy efficiency.

Maintenance: uPVC requires minimal maintenance, as it doesn't corrode or rot. It can be cleaned easily with soap and water. Aluminium, on the other hand, may require occasional cleaning and maintenance to prevent corrosion, especially in coastal areas where salt air can accelerate corrosion.

Cost: uPVC patio doors are usually less expensive than aluminium doors, making them a more budget-friendly option. However, the cost can vary depending on factors such as size, design, and additional features.

In summary, if you prioritise energy efficiency, low maintenance, and affordability, uPVC patio doors may be the better option. However, if you prefer a sleeker design, greater durability, and are willing to invest a bit more, aluminium patio doors could be the way to go. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

Are aluminium doors more expensive than uPVC?

Aluminium is typically more expensive than uPVC as a raw material. This cost is reflected in the final price of the door. Furthermore, manufacturing aluminium doors often involves more complex processes such as welding and powder coating, which can increase production costs compared to the simpler manufacturing process of uPVC doors. Aluminium doors are known for their durability and longevity, which can justify their higher upfront cost over time. They are less prone to warping, fading, or deterioration compared to uPVC doors. While aluminium doors can be equipped with thermal breaks to improve energy efficiency, this can add to the cost compared to standard uPVC doors, which inherently offer better insulation properties. However, it's essential to note that the actual cost difference between aluminium and uPVC doors can vary depending on factors such as design, size, and optional additional features. In some cases, specific uPVC door designs with advanced features may cost more than basic aluminium doors. Therefore, it's essential to consider your budget, preferences, and the specific requirements of your project when comparing prices.

What is the difference between uPVC and aluminium patio doors

uPVC doors are made from a type of plastic known as PVC, which has been unplasticised to make it more rigid and durable. Aluminium doors are made from aluminium metal, which is lightweight and strong. Other differences include:

Frame thickness - uPVC doors often have a thicker frame profile compared to the slimmer frame options offered by aluminium frames.

Durability: Aluminium is inherently more durable than uPVC and can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Energy Efficiency: uPVC is a better insulator than aluminium, providing better thermal efficiency by helping to keep heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer.

Maintenance: uPVC doors require minimal maintenance as they do not corrode. They can be cleaned easily with soap and water. Aluminium doors may require occasional cleaning and maintenance to prevent corrosion.

Cost: uPVC doors are generally less expensive than aluminium doors, making them a more budget-friendly option. Aluminium doors tend to be more expensive due to the higher cost of materials and manufacturing processes involved.