Sliding doors are a popular choice for homeowners, offering a perfect blend of style and convenience. If you’re considering your own sliding door installation to save on contractor costs, it’s crucial to get it right to avoid expensive mistakes. Professional installation ensures precision and reliability but can vary in price depending on the door type, size, material, and the condition of your existing framework.
Types of sliding doors we should use
When choosing sliding doors for your home, two popular options are timber sliding doors and aluminium sliding doors. Each type offers distinct benefits, catering to different aesthetic preferences and functional requirements.
- Timber Sliding Doors
Timber sliding doors are an excellent choice for homeowners who value a natural, warm aesthetic. If you can find certified sustainable wood, this supports eco-friendly practices and brings superior energy efficiency and durability. Timber’s insulating properties help maintain indoor temperatures, potentially reducing energy costs. With proper care, timber sliding doors can be a long-lasting investment for your home.
- Aluminium Sliding Doors
Aluminium sliding doors are known for their lightweight nature and modern appeal. Due to their reduced weight compared to wooden doors, they are particularly suitable for top-hung installations. They offer excellent bushfire protection, making them a safe choice for homes in fire-prone areas. As aluminium is highly customisable, colour matching and finishing to complement your property’s style is easy. The material’s resilience and low maintenance needs make aluminium sliding doors a practical and stylish option for contemporary homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does sliding door installation cost?
The sliding door installation cost can vary based on a few factors, including the type of materials used, your geographic location, and the job’s complexity. On average, expect to pay between $40 to $60 per hour for professional installation services. However, the total cost will depend on the specific details of your project.
The type of sliding door you choose—timber, aluminium, or another material—will significantly impact the overall cost. Timber doors might be more expensive due to the cost of sustainable wood, while aluminium doors could vary in price based on customisation options and finishes.
What is the standard door size?
Sliding doors come in various sizes to suit different architectural styles and functional needs, whether for external patio doors or internal room dividers.
External patio doors typically range in height from 2100mm to 2400mm. This range accommodates standard ceiling heights while providing ample clearance for passage. The width of external sliding doors varies significantly based on the number of panels. Single-panel doors can start around 1500mm wide, while larger multi-panel units can exceed 6000mm.
Internal sliding doors typically come in standard heights such as 2040mm, 2120mm, and 2340mm. These sizes are designed to fit standard residential door openings effectively. They usually range in width from 620mm to 920mm, although sizes can vary depending on the specific design and intended use.
What is a security sliding door?
A security sliding door is a specialised door designed to raise the level of safety and protection of your home. Unlike traditional fly screens or standard sliding doors, security sliding doors are engineered with robust materials and features to deter intruders and enhance security measures.
Security sliding doors are typically constructed from durable materials like 316 marine-grade stainless steel mesh. This mesh is designed to withstand impact and resist cutting, offering a strong barrier against forced entry attempts by intruders.