Sliding glass doors allow for a lot of natural light. They also help add warmth during the winter.
However, they come with some flaws that you should be aware of before installing them in your home.
With the warm-edge spacer system and a latitude glass option that is chosen for your area, you will be able to conserve energy.
Energy Efficiency
Sliding doors allow more natural light into the home. This decreases the use of artificial lighting, which lowers energy consumption and helps you save money on your electricity bills. They also bring the outdoors in, allowing you to gaze at your garden or surrounding landscapes. This is especially beneficial for people who suffer from seasonal depression. Natural light promotes healthier sleep cycles and can boost your energy levels throughout the day.
High-quality sliding doors from reputable manufacturers feature a number of energy-saving features. These include compression weatherstripping, a compression bulb seal, closed-cell foam gaskets, and a 1” insulated glass package. These components prevent air leakage and conserve energy by keeping the inside of your home cool or warm depending on the season.
Besides sealing well, these gliding doors are also easy to maintain. They can be wiped down with a damp cloth to remove any build-up of dirt or grime. Choose frames made from composite fiberglass, wood, or aluminum cladding for more durable and reliable protection against the elements.
Aesthetics
Sliding doors create a beautiful transition between your home and a backyard patio or garden. They also add a modern look to your home. They have large glazed surfaces that allow natural light to flood into a room.
They are also twice as wide as a standard door and have slim frames, which give you an expansive view of your garden or backyard. This makes them a great choice for a kitchen that overlooks the patio or pool. They’re also perfect for smaller homes, as they can make rooms feel larger and more spacious.
Sliding glass doors are also easy to open and close, which makes it easier for you to get in and out of your house. This is important, as it prevents intruders from gaining entry. It also helps protect your home and family from the elements, such as rain and snow. You can also install curtains to further keep out the weather.
Security
Sliding glass doors allow for natural light and beautiful views into the home while offering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. While these features make sliding glass doors popular, they can also pose security challenges if not properly secured.
The traditional locking mechanisms on sliding glass doors are often simplistic, relying on a latch that hooks into the door frame when closed. These latches are easy to bypass and do not provide a significant amount of protection from criminals.
One of the most effective ways to improve your sliding glass doors’ security is to install a security bar in the track. These bars are similar to broomsticks and help prevent burglars from opening the door by physically blocking their path.
Another way to strengthen your sliding glass doors is to install a protective film. These transparent polyester films reinforce the glass to make it nearly impenetrable while still allowing natural light in. Some security films are even designed to deflect impacts from heavy objects like hammers and crowbars rather than shattering.
Maintenance
Unlike hinged doors, sliding glass doors don’t have any moving parts, so they’re easier to keep clean. Washing their uPVC framework with warm water and a little soap is enough to remove dirt and grime. Regular inspections can help prevent problems such as air leakage, water infiltration, and weather damage. A professional installer can offer specific maintenance advice for your door’s material and design.
Sliding doors are available in a wide range of sizes, materials, and designs to complement any interior décor. To find reputable Smithtown sliding door installers, start by asking for referrals from friends or family members who have used their services in the past. Once you’ve found a suitable professional, vet them by looking at their portfolios, reading reviews, and contacting them directly. Homeowners can also use online platforms such as Houzz to easily browse photos and read profiles of professionals, making it easier to find a specialist for their project.