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If you’re currently in the process of remodeling or designing a house from scratch, you may be surprised by how much a sliding glass door can improve the whole vibe in your living room. Aside from providing you with an easy way to get some fresh air, these doors can also fill your interior with sunlight. And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love bright, airy space?
One thing that people often forget is how these doors work with the windows you currently have, or windows you plan on getting. If you are trying to maintain a certain look through the entire house, you can also consider options like Picture Window Repair or window upgrades that flush with your new sliding door. Believe me, a uniform aesthetic creates real magic in the way an interior space looks and feels. So approach your selections with that in mind.
Most folks have a general sense that sliding doors come in all kinds of shapes and sizes, but the details can start blowing your mind once you go a few levels deeper. Though there is such a thing as a “standard” size, modern manufacturers give you plenty of ways to go larger, wider, or even taller. That means you can pick up a door to suit the architecture of your home, whether it’s a cozy cottage or a spacious, open-plan area.
If your living space tends to be on the small side, feel free to go for a smaller model. But for those of you who want your door to basically serve as a feature wall, there are jumbo versions available that can raise your indoor-outdoor flow to a whole new level. Here, your choice should balance practical requirements (like the quantity of space you really have) with the design style you’re working toward. The more familiar you are with these aspects, the easier it will be to narrow down your choice to the model that will suit your lifestyle.
While they may appear simple, sliding glass doors are comprised of several components that work in unison for effortless operation. It’s worth knowing these components so you can make smarter choices on materials or future repairs. Some frame materials even resistscratches better than others, and some are more resistant to heat. Sliding glass doors typically consist of two sections:
For extra-wide entries, three-section (or more!) setups are definitely doable. So if you want that more expansive look, you don’t have to settle for the two-panel set up.” But bigger configurations don’t just offer you stunning views; they also allow more light to stream into the room. So if the heart of your home overlooks a beautiful back garden or lovely horizon, why not make the most of it?
Two-panel models are often the pick for folks because they’re simple, frequently less expensive, and simpler to install. But that’s not to say they’re boring! These doors can be outfitted with customized hardware, tinted glass or even built-in blinds. If you equate “standard” with two of a kind, you’re in for a pleasantly surprising range of design tweaks.
Typical widths for bi-folding sliding glass doors are:
These sizes may not be what you think. You can even set them up so one side is wider than the other, giving your door this cool asymmetrical look. Or maybe you like the good old half-and-half split. Either type boils down to aligning your door’s configuration with your particular taste and the room’s configuration. And yes, a door that’s larger than the actual opening allows it to disappear from view, which gives your living space an even more expansive feel.
Three-panel sliders can feel like an upgrade from the standard two-panel option — especially if you have the room to spare. They not only look great, but also truly allow you to expand that living area. This comes in particularly handy if your family enjoys entertaining backyard barbecues or you have kids and pets who run in and out throughout the day.
Here are the standard widths for three-panel doors:
Because these doors cover more ground, think about the kind of glass you choose. If you live in a cooler area, you may want to consider double- or triple-pane glass for added insulation and comfort. Or if you’re out for that super-sleek aesthetic, you get to scour for minimalistic frames that practically disappear into the background, presenting your outdoor vista like a living mural.
A door’s height doesn’t just impact how “grand” it feels, it can have a major impact on your day-to-day comfort. Can you imagine needing to duck every time you walk through your own house? Not cool, right? So taking that extra moment to double check the correct height is something you must do, particularly if you or any of the family are on the taller side.
Typical height options are:
Even the slightly taller versions come in surprisingly handy if you seek a larger, more airy feel in your home. Your ceilings perhaps look taller, while additional glass brightens an interior space. Also, taller sliding doors can serve as a statement piece, adding that little bit of something extra to a living room or dining area.
Cost is always a major consideration no matter how excited you might be about that massive, light-filled entryway to your garden. It adds up — the total price on a sliding glass door can depend on several factors, so it’s worth knowing what you’re about to spend.
And don’t overlook installation fees, too. Some go the DIY route, but if you’re working with difficult measurements or older homes, it may pay to hire a pro. Also, note that standard door dimensions (think 80 x 60 inches) are usually the cheapest options available, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find value options for unconventional dimensions as well. Look for sales, get quotes from multiple contractors, and don’t be afraid to negotiate discounts or package deals — sometimes you can bundle together window repairs or replacements to save a few bucks.
Sliding glass doors are more than just a style choice—they have to be secure, as well. Contemporary designs may also utilize stronger locking mechanisms, such as multi-point locks that engage at several points along the frame. You can even install something like a security bar or a foot lock for added reassurance if you are concerned about forced entry.
Also, go with tempered or laminated glass, which prevents deadly shards from flying around. Aside from keeping your family safe from accidents, it slows a potential intruder down. If you are a high-tech homeowner, you might look for smart locks, which enable you to control access through a smartphone app. Yes, it sounds a little futuristic, but that additional level of protection can provide some serious peace of mind.
For enhanced durability and safety, we recommend tempered glass, which forms crumbs rather than sharp edges if broken, minimizing the risk of serious cuts and injuries. If your home features older wooden windows, consider our Wood Window Repair services to ensure they are in top condition and complement your new doors. Low-E glass is another excellent choice, as it blocks harmful UV rays that can damage furniture, curtains, and carpets..
Double glazing can significantly increase the energy efficiency of your doors, reducing heat loss. We also offer options like tinted or textured glass and doors with internal blinds, which can be ordered from local suppliers.
To purchase sliding glass doors, contact Window Gurus via phone or fill out the feedback form on our website. Our team is ready to help you find the perfect solution for your home.
Contact us now for a free estimate and take the first step toward repairing your windows!
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