Homes as well as offices are now opting to modernize their space by choosing to install sliding glass doors. Although, traditional doors are still and always will be an option, sliding doors offer a number of benefits that no traditional door ever could. However, it is wise for anyone looking to invest in sliding glass doors to also understand the negative side to installing one. To help you gauge whether investing in such a modern door is right for you, here is our top list of pros and cons.
The Pros of Sliding Glass Doors
If you have a large gaping doorway in your home or office, sliding doors are practical and efficient. They make great use of space and if you ever need to move big items or furniture around, there is no reason to try and squeeze the item through the small door jam or a window. There are no swinging parts to the door and the installation mechanism doesn’t require a lot of space, therefore, you’re essentially getting a much better door in many circumstances, and you can use more of your floor space.
Glass sliding doors can be the perfect accessory in any room. At the same time they avoid the feeling of making things cramped. Since the glass is transparent, you can easily separate different areas of your home without having to feel like a certain area was completely walled off. Any home can look luxurious with such a door installed.
If ample lighting in your home or office was ever a real problem, sliding glass doors are perfect exits to your patio or just a way to separate your dining and living room areas. Additionally, sliding doors are an eco-friendly choice as they’re manufactured from metal, glass, and other recyclable materials.
The Cons of Glass Sliding Doors
If sliding glass doors appeal to you, it’s important to understand that they’re not always the least expensive option. They they can be significantly more expensive than traditional doors, unless you’re going with very decorative or ornate doors made from expensive materials. And of course, there’s the installation costs that you need to consider as well. You can get sometimes get away with installing your own traditional doors, but when it comes to sliding doors, it can be a nightmare to try! You’ll need a window and door expert for sure.
Glass doors are not able to withstand extreme weather conditions. It’s worth keeping in mind that extreme cold, frost, and storms are really not kind on these doors and cause them to deteriorate quite quickly. The reverse is also true. Extreme heat is the enemy of sliding glass doors and can certainly impact their durability. Luckily in South Florida we have the perfect conditions for sliding glass doors. That’s why you see so many of them.
There is also glass door maintenance costs to take into consideration. You can’t just spray some window cleaner and hope for the best. Sliding glass doors may require a little more effort as far as maintenance goes. But they really aren’t that difficult to maintain or keep clean; so nothing to really worry about.
As you can see, there are certainly quite a few things to take into consideration when it comes to selecting the right doors for your home. Many people opt to purchase sliding glass doors over traditional doors, because of all the benefits. But it’s always best to make an informed decision based on your own needs.