Patio doors are more than just an entryway, they connect your indoor and outdoor spaces and increase natural light, ventilation, and the overall aesthetic of your home. From external sliding patio doors that save space to bi-fold doors that create an easy transition to your garden, choosing the right option is essential.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about patio doors in the UK, from different types and pricing to installation tips and security considerations. Plus, we’ll showcase quality sliding and bi-fold doors from our team to help you find the perfect solution for your home.
What are patio doors?
Patio doors are large glass doors designed to connect indoor and outdoor spaces, typically leading to a garden, balcony, or patio area. They are a popular feature in UK homes.
Available in various styles, including external sliding patio doors, bi-fold doors, and French doors, and help improve your property’s aesthetic.
The choice of material, glazing, and opening mechanism can significantly impact their efficiency, security, and overall energy performance.
The role of patio doors in modern homes
Patio doors play a very important role in modern home design, contributing to both visual appeal and functionality. With the increasing emphasis on open-plan living, these doors help create a sense of space by blending indoor and outdoor environments.
They also improve ventilation, making homes feel fresher and more connected to nature. Energy-efficient glazing options, such as double or triple glazing, further enhance insulation and reduce heat loss, making patio doors a sustainable choice.
Types of patio doors: Pros and cons
Below, we’ll explore the various types of patio doors, from external, to bi-fold, to French.
We’ll cover the positives and negatives of these products to help determine which ones are best for you and your space.
External Sliding Patio Doors
How they work & key benefits
Sliding patio doors operate on a track system, where one or more panels slide smoothly along rollers, rather than swinging open like French doors. This design makes them incredibly easy to use and perfect for areas with limited space. Key benefits include:
- Space-saving: They are perfect for compact patios or balconies since they glide rather than open inwards or outwards.
- Unobstructed views: The large glass panels increase natural light and outdoor visibility.
- Efficiency: When fitted with double or triple glazing, they provide excellent insulation, helping to regulate indoor temperatures.
- Increased security: Modern sliding doors have multipoint locking systems and toughened glass for protection.
- Stylish and modern aesthetic: Their minimalist design complements contemporary and traditional homes alike.
Learn more about the types of sliding doors and how to choose the right one for your home in our expert guide.
Toughened Glass Systems’ sliding door options
At Toughened Glass Systems, we offer stunning Cortizo 4700 Sliding Doors that’ll transform any space. Get a custom quote today.
Bi-fold patio doors
How they function and when to choose them
Bi-fold doors operate on a track system, allowing each panel to slide and fold in a concertina-style motion. They can be configured to open inwards or outwards, depending on space availability, including a traffic door, and a single panel that functions like a standard door for easy everyday access without opening the entire set.
Choosing bi-fold patio doors is ideal if you want to:
- Increase your indoor-outdoor living experience
- Open up large wall spaces for a modern feel
- Enjoy flexibility with partial or full openings
- Boost your home’s value and aesthetic appeal
While bi-fold doors offer a fully openable space, they do require some stacking room when folded. If saving space is a top priority, external sliding patio doors may be a better alternative.
You can learn more about the key differences between bi-fold and sliding doors and how to choose the right one in our guide.
Toughened Glass Systems’ bi-fold doors
View our Korniche Bi-Fold Doors to create a bright and inviting atmosphere that feels connected to the outdoors.
Our range includes aluminium bi-fold doors, known for their slim frames, strength, and low maintenance, as well as customisable options in a variety of finishes and glazing choices.
Key features of our bi-fold doors:
- High-performing glazing for thermal efficiency
- Multipoint locking systems
- Glide operation with track mechanisms
- Custom sizes and finishes suit any property style
French doors patio doors
How they function & key benefits
French patio doors operate on a simple hinge mechanism, making them easy to open and close. Most designs include multipoint locking systems for heightened security, while some feature sidelights or top panels to increase natural light. One of their main advantages is ventilation control, as homeowners can open one or both doors depending on airflow needs.
Also, French doors have no tracking system like sliding or bi-fold alternatives, they are easier to maintain and less prone to dirt or debris build-up. They also provide a wider opening space, making them ideal for moving large furniture.
Choosing the best patio door for your home
Factors to consider:
When choosing a patio door, make sure to consider how much space you have and how you’re going to use it. Sliding patio doors are notoriously great for places with limited space, as they don’t swing open and take up unnecessary space.
Materials: Aluminium vs. uPVC vs. timber
Aluminium patio doors are a popular choice due to their strength, slim frames, and modern look. They require less maintenance and offer durability.
uPVC doors, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly and provide good insulation, but they tend to have thicker frames that might not be as sleek as aluminium.
Timber patio doors offer a traditional and natural aesthetic, but they require more upkeep to protect against moisture and warping.
Energy efficiency and glazing options
Double glazing is the standard choice for insulating your doors against cold weather and getting rid of outside noise. While triple glazing offers even greater thermal performance, making it ideal for homes in colder climates. Low-emissivity coatings can further increase insulation by reflecting heat into the home.
Patio door prices in the UK: What to expect?
Cost breakdown by type (sliding, bi-fold, French)
Different types of patio doors come with varying price points.
Sliding patio doors are generally a mid-range option, being a lot more flexible. Prices for basic uPVC sliding doors start at around £600 to £1,500, while premium aluminium sliding doors with high-performance glazing can cost £2,000 to £4,000+, depending on size and customisation.
Bi-fold doors, known for their folding mechanism that opens up entire walls, tend to be more expensive, with prices typically ranging from £1,500 to £6,000+, depending on the number of panels and materials used.
On the other hand, French doors are often a budget-friendly alternative, with prices starting from £500 for uPVC models and increasing to £2,500+ for high-end timber or aluminium options.
Factors affecting the price
Several key factors influence the total cost of patio doors.
Material choice plays a crucial role, uPVC doors are the most affordable, while aluminium and timber options are pricier but offer greater aesthetics.
Glazing type impacts cost as well, with standard double glazing being the cheapest and options like triple-glazing, laminated glass, or solar-reflective coatings adding to the price for better insulation and security.
How to fit a patio door
Preparation: Measuring and choosing the right door
Before purchasing your patio door, accurate measurements are vital. Measure the height, width, and depth of the opening, accounting for any irregularities in the frame. Consider whether a sliding or bi-fold door best suits your space – sliding doors are ideal for compact areas, while bi-fold doors provide a fully openable wall effect.
Tools and materials needed
Having the right tools and materials makes installation easier. You’ll typically need a measuring tape, spirit level, power drill, screws, shims, sealant, and a pry bar. For bi-fold doors, additional hardware like tracks and hinges will be required. Make sure you have safety gear, including gloves and protective eyewear, to prevent injuries during installation.
Installation process for sliding and bi-fold doors
The installation process varies slightly depending on the door type. For sliding doors, you’ll need to install the track system, secure the frame, and carefully fit the glass panels into place. Bi-fold doors require precise alignment of tracks and hinges, ensuring smooth folding and sliding action. Sealing gaps with weatherproof sealant and checking for level alignment is important for preventing draught and misalignment issues.
Common mistakes to avoid
One of the biggest mistakes is improper measurement, leading to gaps or a poor fit. Another issue is failing to level the frame correctly, which can cause sticking doors or difficulty opening and closing. Skipping weatherproofing and insulation can result in draughts, water leaks, or heat loss, impacting your home’s energy levels.
When to hire a professional
While DIY installation is possible, hiring a professional is recommended for large or complex patio doors, particularly bi-fold systems that require precise track alignment.
Security and safety considerations for patio doors
Toughened and laminated glass for added protection
Toughened glass is heat-treated to increase its strength, making it more resistant to impact. If broken, it shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury. Laminated glass, on the other hand, has a protective interlayer that holds shattered pieces together, making it even harder to break through. Both options increase durability and are excellent for homes needing extra security.
Child and pet safety tips
Patio doors can be a great way to bring natural light into your home, but they also pose risks to children and pets. To improve safety, consider installing finger-safe gaskets to prevent little fingers from getting trapped in sliding or bi-fold doors.
Anti-slam features can prevent sudden closures that could cause injuries. Also, low-threshold designs lessen tripping hazards, and safety locks can keep doors securely closed when unsupervised.
Maintenance and longevity of patio doors
Cleaning and maintenance tips for sliding and bi-fold doors
To keep your sliding and bi-fold patio doors working smoothly, clean the glass regularly using a non-abrasive cleaner and cloth. Dust and debris can accumulate in tracks, causing doors to stick, vacuuming and wiping them down helps prevent this. Lubricate moving parts, such as rollers and hinges, with a silicone-based lubricant to make sure your products stay spotless.
Get more tips on how to clean patio doors and get streak-free windows in our ultimate guides.
When to replace your patio doors
Over time, patio doors may show signs of wear, such as drafts, condensation between glass panes, or difficulty opening and closing. If your doors are more than 15–20 years old, have visible damage, or no longer provide adequate insulation, replacement may be the best option.
Our range of products has all the selection choices you’ll need, check them out today.
Why choose Toughened Glass Systems for your patio doors?
At Toughened Glass Systems, we offer quality external sliding patio doors and bi-fold doors that are made to last, provide security, and add style. We make sure that each door provides easy operation, insulation, and a modern aesthetic for any home.
Whether you need to save space with a sliding door or take advantage of the versatility of a bi-fold, the quality products we offer bring the best performance and longevity for your needs.
View our collection of doors or contact us today, and we’ll get in touch with you as soon as possible.
Patio doors FAQs
What is the best type of patio door for small spaces?
When space is limited, external sliding patio doors are often the best option. Unlike bi-fold or French doors, sliding doors don’t require extra room to open, making them ideal for compact areas.
Do I need planning permission to install patio doors?
In most cases, you won’t need planning permission to install patio doors, especially if you’re replacing an existing door. However, if you’re making significant structural changes or live in a listed building or conservation area, it’s best to check with your local authority.