When it comes to visual appeal and ease of operation, there is nothing like sliding glass doors.
However, it is not very secure when it comes to burglary as they could easily detach the latch.
They can also be vulnerable to breaks.
With these, you might want to install another door key in.
But then again, what would be the alternatives to sliding glass doors?
Pros
Cons
Related:How Much Does a Door Cost?
(By Style, Material, Size)
How do I identify a sliding glass door?
They come in single and double sliding glass door types.
1.French doors
This one is a timeless choice for patio glass doors.
It has the top to bottom design like a sliding door but with glass pockets all over.
It can be customized to any shape, style, and glass punch in.
2.Pivot doors
As the term implies, pivot doors open and close by pivoting in and out.
The pivot handle and the floor take on the weight of its metal and glass construction.
They are well loved for their stability and ability to withstand harsher climate conditions.
You would usually find pivot doors in commercial establishments like companies and hotels because they are formal looking.
Unlike sliding glass doors, they are better when it comes to security.
And as far as design is concerned, they are good for contemporary home designs.
Another trend in accordion doors would be lift sliders.
They work in a bifold manner and then completely disappears into a track and then stacks on a wall.
It is perfect for patio doors more than entry ways.
4.Center swing doors
This works a lot more common than pivot glass doors.
But when it comes to construction, center swing doors are made from wood more often.
It is installed through a top hinge, allowing the door to swing in and out.
As such, if it is pushed to the right, the left side opens and vice versa.
Because of its unique movement pattern, it is found mostly on commercial establishments.
Its sliding mechanism is very similar to that of sliding glass doors.
It usually has pocket designs and is framed in either wood or metal.
But compared to it, it offers more privacy and in a more compact design.
Its modern look is visually appealing.
It could also be custom fit to lessen maintenance costs.
A more modern style would be multi-track sliding doors.
Its full effect can be seen when you create a wall enclosure out of it.
So, when it opens, four tracks and four different glass panels would open simultaneously.
This one works in a horizontal open and close manner.
As such, when it is opened, all what is inside the enclosure is exposed.
8.Dutch doors
This is one of the finest touches to modern rustic homes or farmhouse style ones.
Its rustic finish can fit well to modern, contemporary, and even industrial designs.
It is also good for creating more privacy.
So, this one has a single door panel with glass sides.
It still gives the natural light benefit of sliding glass doors.
It has a minimalist aesthetic value that makes it more appealing to modern designs.
It is not that space efficient, however.
FAQs on Sliding Glass Door Alternatives
How much does it cost to replace sliding doors?
At an average, the amount of replacing sliding doors is between $700-2500.
Labor costs in both new installation and replacement would be at $300-800.
Where can I buy quality sliding doors?
What glass types are used for sliding glass doors and their alternatives?
For privacy purposes, the best bang out of glass to be used would be frosted glass.
For durability, it should be tempered glass.
For more light flow, natural light and illusion of space, you could opt for reflective glass.
Conclusion
To conclude, there is more to just sliding doors and wooden latched doors.
The only thing you must narrow down is to know which one to choose for your home.
