Sliding patio doors come in different natural and artificial materials. These materials significantly influence how you enjoy your patio doors. For example, your sliding patio doors’ materials determine their maintenance ease. Construction materials can also determine the doors’ durability and energy efficiency levels. Therefore, pay special attention to your chosen door’s construction materials before buying it; the professionals you hire for the installation, such as chapel hill’s patio door professionals, may be able to help assess the best options for your situation. Just know that not every door installation and replacement company may offer the service you require. Finding a professional such as Renewal by Andersen sliding patio doors experts would be perfect if you’re looking for French and patio doors, for example. They have several of the types listed below to choose from.
Here are some of the top patio door materials for your consideration; read on to learn more.
Vinyl
Vinyl is an excellent choice if you value durability. This material can withstand different harsh weather conditions in your location. Vinyl is more cost-effective than other materials like wood and fiberglass. However, it doesn’t have the same energy-efficiency levels wood has. Some vinyl doors also have wood grain lamination that mimics natural wood for those who like a woody appearance.
Wood
When considering replacement French and sliding patio doors, wood is an excellent, natural, and beautiful choice many homeowners prefer. It’s easy to customize it to fit any paint or stain color you like. Moreover, it’s easier to repair scratches.
However, it’s costlier to buy and maintain sliding patio doors than other materials. It’s also susceptible to weather damage, necessitating a durable stain finish and constant repainting.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is another favorite artificial material you can choose. It needs little maintenance, and you can customize it to suit any of your house’s exterior or interior design elements. It can also withstand harsh weather conditions. Its nature doesn’t curve, warp, peel, or swell, and this material withstands denting and has a high energy efficiency level. However, fiberglass is expensive and can crack when exposed to severe impact.
Aluminum
This material is one of the most affordable options on the market for sliding patio doors. It’s sturdy and requires very little maintenance. Aluminum is slightly energy-efficient and lightweight. Don’t forget that this material is equally durable if you maintain it well. It can resist corrosion and rust if it comes with an anodized finish.
However, aluminum has its disadvantages, you should notice. For example, it can dent and scratch easily unless you handle it carefully. Lastly, aluminum has the least energy efficiency levels than the other materials because it doesn’t retain much heat.
Steel
Steel is another option to consider when selecting sliding patio doors. Steel patio doors are manufactured from heavy-duty galvanized steel that’s applied over a rigid foam core. These doors have a vinyl or polymer coating. Some of them are embossed to resemble wood. Steel doors are also energy-efficient because of their foam cores.
Steel still has its disadvantages you should know about. One, steel can dent easily. Two, it’s pretty difficult to repair it. Three, steel can easily scratch and rust unless you keep repainting it frequently.
Sliding doors come in different materials. These varying materials can affect how you will enjoy the doors in the long-term. For example, they can determine a sliding patio door’s durability and cost. The information shared through this post will guide you in choosing the suitable material that suits your home’s door needs.
