Different Sliding Door Models

Sliding doors have a significant advantage over hinged doors: the lack of a swinging panel. This unique characteristic makes many homeowners more prone to installing this type of door. And there are many options to choose from when it comes time to purchase a sliding door.

To help you make an informed decision, here is an overview of the different types of sliding doors available and the various materials used.

Sliding Door Models

What is a sliding door?

Generally speaking, a sliding door consists of one or two panels hung to a track on rollers. Sliding doors with one panel are typically reserved for small spaces such as pantries or bathrooms. The other model is often used to separate one main room from another. 

Different Types of Sliding Doors

Basically, there are three types of sliding doors: the barn sliding door, the concealed sliding door, and the semi-concealed sliding door. The standard sliding door is unique in that it can be opened using a track system located at the top or bottom of the door. Although this door model is often used to create a partition between two rooms, it is also used to create a partition between the interior of the house and a porch.

The concealed sliding door opens by means of an invisible track located at the top of the door. The main difference between this door and the standard sliding door is the inclusion of a pocket in which the door is stored once fully opened. This same pocket is concealed in a partition built in the wall cavity.

Given the need to create a pocket in the wall cavity, the installation of this model is a more extensive project. Despite its complex installation, this type of sliding door has the great advantage of freeing up floor space as well as wall space given its unique way of opening. Moreover, the space freed up on the wall makes it possible to use for other purposes. Nevertheless, note that the concealed sliding door is more expensive than the standard sliding door.

Moving on to the semi-concealed sliding door. Although this door model is very similar to the concealed sliding door, its pocket is not as deep. This, however, allows the door to be installed despite a shallower wall cavity. Since the storage pocket is not as deep, only one part of the panel can fit inside the cavity, while the other panel (swing or pivot) is left exposed.

Photo: Pixabay

Different Types of Materials

The above-mentioned sliding door models are available in several different materials including wood, PVC, glass or tempered glass, aluminum, or mirrored. The question is, how do you choose between all these options? Well, take a look at the pros and cons of each of these materials.

As for a wood sliding door, its elegance and versatility speak for themselves. As a matter of fact, it is possible to incorporate this model in modern decor as well as in a rustic one. Moreover, the wood sliding door is very resistant and has great durability.

Furthermore, this type of sliding door is available in a wide range of colours, which allows it to blend in with a wide variety of decors. And on another note, wood sliding doors require more maintenance and, depending on the type of wood selected, can be rather expensive. Also, it is worth considering salvaging an old wooden door, to then mount on a track as is. Its rustic look will add a distinctive touch to any room.

On the other hand, the sliding PVC door is a great quality-price option that requires little maintenance. However, one must say that its appearance lends itself less aesthetic appeal. In addition, its light weight makes it much more prone to impacts, and this lack of resilience is also synonymous with rather modest durability.

Photo: Pexels

Moving on to sliding glass or tempered glass doors. Since glass is a modern material, this type of door is a perfect fit when it comes to any modern decor. Due to the transparency of the glass, the door allows a lot of light to enter the home while maintaining a sleek look. Given the obvious fragility of the material, one cannot ignore the difficulties inherent to its installation. Also, given the propensity of stains on the glass, it requires regular maintenance.

What about the mirrored glass sliding door? Due to the unique capacity to reflect space, it benefits small spaces by creating a feeling of spaciousness. However, one cannot help but underline the fragility of this type of sliding door, as well as the regular maintenance it requires. Lastly, a mirrored glass sliding door offers the best of both worlds: it makes dividing a space possible without giving the impression of a partition.

Last but not least: the aluminum sliding door. Since this door is particularly light, often it is necessary to fit it with an internal door. Given its metallic appearance, it blends in beautifully with modern decors. Moreover, it is a low-maintenance material and it is available in a wide range of finishes. Unfortunately, note that an aluminum sliding door does not retain much heat.