SLIDING DOORS
What door system should I use for a large opening?
If the design of your self-build or extension includes a large aperture, then designing the glazing to fit, in a configuration that works, can be a challenge.
There are a range of patio door systems – bifold, French, steel-framed etc – but sliding doors are capable of achieving much larger panel sizes than other options, with much slimmer frames, meaning you see more of the view out and less of the door itself. This makes them a good option for larger openings.
The door system and configuration will be key in how it fits in the opening and how you want it to work. Configurations of sliding doors aren’t standard so make sure you discuss options with your supplier. A large aperture would benefit from a system that stacks panes behind a fixed panel. The solution for this house below was a four-panel set of doors, cleverly designed with three-panels sliding behind a fixed frame at one end. This unique configuration allows for a huge 9m wide, three-quarter opening that breaks down the boundaries between inside and out.
The four 3m-wide panels are separated by narrow 20mm aluminium frames, which allow for almost completely uninterrupted views from the house over the garden and towards the river estuary.
