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very selfbuilder has their dream
E
home pictured in their mind long
before their final plans are
submitted; maximising the outside
space into the inside living area,
‘bringing the outside in’ has now become a
desirable and almost essential ingredient to any
new build making folding sliding doors a main
feature in the design.
The possibilities are only restricted by the
imagination; indoor swimming pools become
A Reliable
open to the elements in the warmer months and
‘al fresco’ dining areas can be swiftly created by
sweeping back the doors. Folding sliding doors
allow a 90% opening as opposed to 40% with
conventional systems, creating light and space
‘Wow’ Factor
giving more flexibility to living and garden areas.
Specialist folding sliding door companies
now provide specifically designed and then a standard sill will be necessary. same access as a normal door when you do
guaranteed hinge mechanisms along with sleek For internal doors, the track can be set into not wish to fold and slide the remainder of the
design options. This has raised both the quality the floor for a seamless transition room to room. doors back. Also think about where you are
and confidence in folding sliding doors since If your doors are between a conservatory and placing furniture when the project is finished,
they first appeared in the marketplace making the main part of the house then a slightly or where kitchen cabinets will be as this may
them a reliable option for giving properties the different sill will be required to cover the affect the configuration you choose.
‘wow’ factor. necessary building regulations. Do check with
When choosing your folding sliding doors the your folding sliding door supplier that their sill Finishes
following issues are probably the most frequently complies with these regulations. Timber has a higher thermal capacity and life
considered and relevant to your decision: expectancy than aluminium but will require
Glazing regular maintenance. Choose a manufacturer
Top-hung or Bottom Rolling In any property where large areas of glazing are who offers a fully factory finished product and
A top-hung system will generally give a to be used, check that the glazing complies check the durability of the finish.
smoother glide for your doors. Check with your with Building Regulations and that the U-value The finished product will very much dictate
supplier what requirements are needed as a is compatible for your build. Argon-filled glazed the look and feel of your build. In addition to
load-bearing lintel is essential for a top-hung panels will help keep rooms cool in the summer the widely available traditional stained finishes,
system. If in any doubt discuss with your and warm in the winter. Internal beading is also painted doors are now available in any RAL
structural engineer who will be able to advise advised for additional security. colour giving the option for a very contemporary
the viability for your build. look and feel.
If a top-hung system is not suitable, bottom Inward or Outward Opening Doors
rolling systems are available. Do bear in mind The majority of builds suit outward opening For any selfbuilder, opting for folding sliding
that these may be higher maintenance, as the doors although where space is limited on the doors will be a major part of their budget. It is
track will need to be regularly cleaned to stop outside of the property or there is a Juliet highly recommended that you view your chosen
any debris affecting the mechanism. balcony, inward opening doors may be your only product first hand with any questions you may
option. If you have the choice of either opening have. Not all folding sliding doors are the same
Sill Types options do bear in mind that inward opening and asking key questions could save
For externally opening doors a flush sill is doors will take up valuable space inside your disappointment in the long term. Ultimately the
often the first choice for selfbuilders so that property and may restrict the use of curtains. decision is yours but there is no substitute for
they can have the same flooring both inside seeing the product first hand to compare the
and outside the property, or to comply with Opening Configurations different systems and feeling how they glide.
disabled access. This is achievable but do Extensive opening configuration options allow Do take time to visit your supplier’s showroom
check that the sill type comes with adequate the doors to glide open all to one side or split and see the doors for yourself before making
drainage. It may be advisable to opt for a two ways dependent on how the space is to be that key purchase.
system with a small weather stop to guarantee utilised. For heavy traffic areas, choose an
141
water will not enter your property. If you are opening configuration with the option of a
Vanessa Morris,
having a step down to your patio or decking single opening door. This will give you the
Director, Kloeber UK Ltd
See inside back cover for Reader Enquiry Card or go online: www.sbhonline.eu
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