Top tips for specifying sliding doors on extensions and renovations

For more than 20 years IDSystems has manufactured, supplied and installed award-winning aluminium glazed sliding doors on residential projects across the length and breadth of the country.

In that time they have worked with thousands of practices and studios, many on a regular basis, to put the finishing touches to eye-catching extensions and stunningly designed homes.

This unrivalled experience makes them expertly placed to offer advice and support to architects when it comes to specifying sliding doors for residential projects.

Top Tip 1: Get the door configuration right

Having an idea of what configurations are available from the very start of the design process can have a huge impact on the final appearance of the project. As an example, traditionally 4-panel sliding doors were configured as centre opening because that was all that early systems could achieve – but this meant restricting the size of the opening and having the chunkiest piece of profile right in the centre of the doors. IDSystems’ sliding doors can be designed with 3 panels sliding to one end to create a real wow-factor when opened. Learn More

Top tip 2: Seeing through the marketing blurb

At a time where Building Regulations have demanded greater thermal efficiency performance being able to read beyond the marketing blurb for different sliding door systems is crucial. As an example the additional weight of triple glazing means that some of the U-value figures initially quoted may not always be achievable for the size of door panels you require and sliding door systems on the market – particularly ultra-slim designs – can’t be manufactured to incorporate trickle vents meaning they don’t comply with Document F! Learn More

Top tip 3: Creating a flush floor detail

The dream for many who opt for large glazed doors is to create a seamless transition between inside and out so that their home is extended out on to the patio and into the garden. To achieve this step-free, flush floor detail that has been designed into the aperture from the very start is critical. Knowing the depth and width of the track and the height of the finished floor (both inside and out) is key to creating the stunning appearance. Learn More

More about IDSystems sliding doors

theEDGE2.0

An award-winning ultra-slim system with panels up to 3m wide and incredibly narrow 20mm intermediate frames.

Grand Slider II

A high performance aluminium framed sliding door system, ideal for projects in remote or exposed locations.

Open Corner Designs

Create completely open corners that offer panoramic views out with frameless corner sliding doors.

Pocket Sliding Doors

External sliding doors that slide into a pocket in the wall to create completely unobstructed openings.

Additional resources

CPD Material

IDSystems’ RIBA approved CPD material has proven hugely popular with practices of all sizes, and we can host the sessions either remotely online or face-to-face in your studio.

NBS Source

IDSystems’ most popular products aluminium sliding, bifold and slide and turn doors are now available to be added to specifications using NBS Source, with full technical details available.