Sliding doors are one of the most aesthetically appealing features you can add to your patio. The beauty that comes with glass doors is that they tend to merge the inside with the outside and leave the living room and the patio feeling like one continuous open space. However, installing sliding glass doors does have its disadvantages. It is therefore advisable to weigh the pros and cons of the doors before installation. Here are three guidelines you should follow when installing these doors.
Energy-Efficient Doors
One of the main challenges that comes with glass doors, especially in the winter, is that they tend to encourage excessive heat loss from the house. It is crucial to check the R-rating of the glass that you want to install before picking it. It is advisable to choose the glass with the highest R-rating as it will have the best insulation against heat loss. Additionally, ensure that you add features such as weather stripping, insulating glass, and foam insulation. These features come in handy when installing the door to ensure that maximum heat is retained inside the home, even in winter.
The Level of Security
Another crucial factor that you need to consider when dealing with glass doors is the level of security they offer to your home. Glass doors come in varying tensile strengths and have different security features. There are bulletproof glass doors, but they will cost you more than the regular doors. The installation also determines how secure the door will be. Talk to the supplier to help you choose the best security-enhancing features, such as locks, to go with the door you want.
Durability and Maintenance
The third quality to look for in a glass door is how easy it will be to wash and maintain, as well as how well it can resist wear, which often comes with harsh weather. Quality doors are easy to clean, and grime does not stick to them easily. Low-E glass also offers benefits such as ease of maintenance and protection from UV rays.
These are some of the essential guidelines to follow before installing a glass door. If you are not sure about the perfect door type to install in your home, it is advisable to get an expert opinion from door and siding installation experts. As long as you have quality advice from glass door suppliers and installation experts, you will get optimum security for your home.
For more information, contact a glass door supplier.