What’s the Difference between a Lift and Slide Door and a Regular Sliding Door? | Build Rite LLC
Lift and Slide Doors vs. Traditional Sliding Doors
When it comes to choosing the perfect entryway for your home or business, doors play the most part in both functionality and aesthetics. Among the various options available, Build RiteLLC foumnd that lift and slide doors and traditional sliding doors stand out as popular choices. Each has its unique features, benefits, and design considerations. In this blog, we’ll dive into the key differences between these two door types to help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and personal style.
Sliding doors are a common feature in many American homes. They are a great way to let in a lot of natural light and, at the same time, creating a large opening to the outside.
While sliding doors are a proven design, a lot of European windows and door manufacturers started to build lift and slide doors instead. So what are the differences between a ‘sliding door’ and a European ‘lift and slide door’?
A standard sliding door built in the USA uses a static rail fixed at the bottom of lower frame with small rollers moving it along the rail. To maintain sufficient water and air tightness, sliding doors have very little space between the rail and the vent, creating significant friction. Over time, as debris and corrosion reduce the clearance even further sliding doors become harder and harder to open. You have probably noticed it yourself on older slider doors.
Ease of use
The lift-and-then-slide design allows the user to open even over-sized vents with the push of a finger.
In addition to the added vent clearances when lifted and the protection of the rail from dust and debris, European lift and slide doors also use high-performance bearings in the rollers. With these capabilities, customers who might have avoided larger sliding doors due to the weight of the vent, may once again consider larger vent sizes with the lift-and-slide mechanism.
Better water and air tightness, reduced wear and tear
Since regular sliding doors can’t disengage their seals when the doors are opened and closed, sliding door designs attempt to balance the need for air/water tight seals with the need to minimize the friction of those seals while operating the door. Sliding doors quickly become difficult to operate and their water/air tightness quickly deteriorates.
Improved forced entry resistance
When a lift and slide door is shut and the handle is moved into the closed position, not only are the locking mechanisms engaged, but the full weight of the vent is set down onto the frame. Intruders would not only need to create enough leverage to break the multi point locking mechanism, but also move the weight of the vent.
Design and Aesthetics:
Traditional Sliding Doors: These doors are available at BuildRiteLLC in a variety of styles, materials, and finishes, making them versatile for various architectural design and tastes. However, the track system may be visible, impacting the overall aesthetic.
Lift and Slide Doors: Known for their sleek and modern design, lift and slide doors often offer a more contemporary look. The concealed track system contributes to a clean and minimalist appearance, enhancing the visual appeal of the space.
Choosing between lift and slide doors and traditional sliding doors ultimately depends on your specific requirements and design preferences. If you’re still undecided, let our crew at BuildRiteLLC help you choose the perfect option for you. While traditional sliding doors are reliable and come in a variety of styles, lift and slide doors offer advanced functionality, superior insulation, and a modern aesthetic. Consider the size of your opening, the climate of your region, and the overall design theme of your space to make an informed decision that aligns with your needs or even easier contact us.