The correct patio door

Patio door systems consist almost entirely of glass, giving access to the backyard and allowing natural light to flood our homes. As they normally constitute the largest area of glass in a home, it is important to choose them with care. First of all, we must decide which type of opening suits us best, either hinged or sliding. The hinged or tiltand-turn door opens like a regular door. The sliding door consists of two or four panels which slide on tracks. Ensure that the model chosen has the right sliding configuration for you depending on the layout of your home. Also make sure that the sliding system is durable, gentle, quiet and does not require any effort when opening or closing. Whether you choose wood, aluminum, PVC or a hybrid, always ensure that the material is long-lasting and of good quality. A patio door should not only be a sturdy, solid construction but should also be able to withstand bad weather, knocks, flaking, mould, warping as well as corrosion.

Instead of relying on the type of window (insulated, sealed, thermal, energy-efficient) or on the number of panes

(single, double, triple, quadruple), you should check the door’s rating according to required standards: air infiltration, water penetration, ease of operation and structural loading requirements. The door should also offer excellent energy efficiency and good soundproofing. The locking system should have a high-performance rating for resistance to forced entry.