Choosing Between uPVC Sliding Door & uPVC Casement Door
If you want to renovate your house, one of the easiest ways to enhance your property’s style, efficiency and comfort is by upgrading your doors. And, when it comes to modern materials, uPVC has revolutionised the way our doors look and perform.
With uPVC as the base material, you must decide between a sleek, contemporary uPVC sliding door or a traditional, robust uPVC casement door.
Ready to upgrade? Let’s find out the perfect choice for your home renovation.
Understanding Different uPVC Doors
uPVC is a durable, low-maintenance plastic material that has gained popularity worldwide for use in doors and windows. They offer excellent weather resistance, aesthetic versatility and thermal efficiency. The two common styles include –
- A UPVC sliding door, also known as a patio door, is designed to operate on horizontal tracks fixed within its frame. They are the ideal choice for spaces where floor space is limited, such as those opening onto balconies, decks or patios.
- A uPVC casement door is defined by its simple mechanism. It is hinged on one side and opens either inward or outward, just like a traditional door. Casement doors are often favoured for main entrances or rooms where better airflow is a priority.
Sliding vs Casement: Key Differences
| Features | uPVC Sliding Door | uPVC Casement Door |
| Operation | The sliding door requires space along the wall for the panels to stack, but takes up no floor space when opening or closing. | The casement door requires a clear space in front of or behind it to swing open, which impacts the furniture layout. |
| Space Efficiency | Sliding doors are champions of space-saving, as they operate entirely within their frame footprint. | Casement doors protrude into the living area or the exterior space, which can be an inconvenience in tight hallways or small balconies. |
| Durability | Sliding doors rely on the quality and longevity of their rollers and tracks. | Casement doors often have fewer moving parts (just the hinges). |
| Ventilation | A UPVC sliding door only allows half of the total doorway area to be opened for airflow. | Casement doors typically provide superior, full-aperture ventilation, as they can be opened completely. |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Sliding doors offer a clean, minimalist, and contemporary architectural feel, ideal for merging indoor and outdoor spaces. | A uPVC casement door is more traditional, prominent, and features a classic look. |
| Insulation | Sealing of sliding doors relies on brush or gasket systems along the sliding contact point. | Closed casement doors offer better energy efficiency and airtightness, as the sash presses tightly against the frame, creating a superior seal against drafts and heat loss. |
| Maintenance | For a UPVC sliding door, the tracks may require occasional cleaning to ensure the smooth gliding action remains effortless. | For casement doors, the primary maintenance task is lubricating the hinges. |
| Cost | Sliding doors are slightly more expensive due to their larger glass panels and track system. | A uPVC casement door is usually more affordable while offering high insulation value. |
Which One Should You Choose?
The right door for your home is the one that meets your specific needs and aligns with your design vision.
- Choose a uPVC sliding door if you prefer a modern, streamlined look or if you need a wide, expansive opening. It is also an ideal choice for smaller rooms where proper space optimisation is crucial.
- Choose a uPVC casement door if you prioritise insulation and security, need to fully ventilate a room, or want a more classic, premium, and substantial look for an entryway.
Before making a decision, carefully consider the climate, the placement and your personal design preferences.
Conclusion
The choice between a uPVC sliding door and a uPVC casement door depends on your aesthetic goals and performance needs. Regardless of the style, it’s important to prioritise quality for long-term peace of mind and optimal performance for your home.
By choosing products from trusted brands like AIS Windows, you can be confident that you are installing a high-quality uPVC solution designed for durability, security and superior energy efficiency.
