Sliding glass doors are available in a handful of different styles at a range of costs. Specialty options such as Luminette(r) Privacy Sheers can be coordinated with Silhouette(r) Window Shadings for added functionality and to match your décor.
Energy-efficient sliding glass doors can help you reduce your home’s carbon footprint and save money on utility bills all year round. Options include framed and frameless glass with Low-E glass.
Aesthetics
There are a lot of things that you can do to improve your home, from painting and repainting to installing new flooring and replacing the windows. However, one of the most impactful projects you can undertake is replacing your doors. Sliding glass doors have a number of benefits that can make them a valuable addition to your home.
These doors can also be fitted with shatterproof safety glass, which means that they won’t break into sharp pieces when you open them or if a strong wind slams them shut. This feature is also important for ensuring the safety of your family, especially your children.
They can also add a sense of openness and space to your home, thanks to their larger panes of glass and narrow frames. This can be particularly helpful if you live in a small house. Lastly, they can give you a clear view of your garden and landscape. This is an especially important feature if you have young children, as it allows you to keep an eye on them when they play outside.
Security
Sliding glass doors add a beautiful indoor/outdoor lifestyle but present some security challenges that homeowners should be aware of. Burglars target these areas because they are often blocked from view and have a simple latch lock that is easy for criminals to manipulate or break open.
Fortunately, there are many things you can do to enhance the security of your sliding glass doors. Whether they are framed or frameless, you can add door reinforcements to make them stronger and more resistant to forced entry. You can also install a security system that includes door sensors so you will receive alerts if the doors are tampered with, regardless of where you are.
Another option is to plant thorny plants around your home’s exterior, which act as natural barriers and deter criminals from approaching. This is a cost-effective security solution that improves your home’s aesthetics and property value. Lastly, always remember to lock your doors, even if you are only going out for a short amount of time.
Energy Efficiency
While sliding glass doors are lauded for their beautiful influx of natural light and seamless entrances, they can also serve as environmentally sound solutions. Choosing the right ones for your home will not only benefit the environment, but also reduce energy costs.
The material used for the build is a major factor in the door’s energy efficiency. Steel has a higher embodied energy, while fiberglass has a lower one. Moreover, the number of panes also impacts how well the doors insulate.
Additionally, the type of coatings used to insulate the glass also plays a part. Basic tints dampen natural brightness, while more advanced coatings filter out harmful rays, infrared heat, and unneeded sunlight. This will not only protect your home from the elements but also reduce air leaks, thus preventing unwanted moisture in the house. This will also help you to save on the heating bill during winter.
Maintenance
Sliding glass doors offer a number of benefits that go beyond the aesthetic. These doors increase natural light, provide a clear view and add security to a home. However, like any door they can experience problems that may require repair.
Sliding door rollers and tracks should be regularly lubricated. This will keep the doors from becoming stiff and hard to operate. Silicone spray lubricant is ideal, as it will not collect dust. Homeowners can also use WD-40, although this does tend to collect dust and is best used as a last resort.
Drafts can occur around sliding doors and affect the heating and cooling costs of a home. Replacing the weather stripping is a simple task that most homeowners can do themselves.
Sliding glass doors have a number of benefits for a home, but they can become problematic over time. Performing regular maintenance will help extend their lifespan and ensure they remain fully functional. Fortunately, there are professionals who can assist with repairing and replacing these doors.