French, Patio, and Sliding Doors: What’s the Difference?

14th December 2022

Three of the most common terms used to refer to external doors are French, patio, and sliding doors. But what is the difference between the three, exactly?

Alimax are leading manufacturers of aluminium doors and windows in the South. In this post, we take a look at the qualities of French, patio, and sliding doors, where each type originates, and what makes them different from one another. 

What are the main differences between French, patio, and sliding doors?

French doors consist of side-hinged sashes that swing open, while sliding doors glide horizontally along tracks. Patio doors is an umbrella term referring to doors that open onto a patio or outdoor space, including French, sliding, and bifold doors.

What is a French door? 

A French door is made up of two side-hinged sashes that swing open outwards. As the name suggests, they were first invented in France around the Renaissance period, evolving from the French window. 

With a classically elegant design that echoes continental architecture, French doors are the perfect way to add a touch of romance to any property. 

Alimax’s aluminium French doors emulate the traditional French door appearance, but enhance it with modern innovations in insulation and security. An internal thermal break allows for exceptional thermal performance, while a multi-point locking mechanism and shoot bolts guarantee a high level of protection against damage or tampering. 

What is a sliding door? 

Instead of swinging on hinges, a sliding door opens and closes by sliding horizontally along a track. It can be suspended from a rail or mounted on a track below. Although they are often viewed as a modern design element, sliding doors have a history reaching as far back as the Roman Empire! 

Thanks to their tall glass panels, sliding doors allow for panoramic views and ample natural light. Their understated, space-saving design makes them well suited to a range of property styles. 

Our MAXi slide doors boast contemporary styling along with a robust performance. They are available in virtually any configuration - opt for a simple two-panel sliding door, or go wider with three, four, five, or even six panels! 

We supply two models: standard slide and lift and slide. Both types offer easy operation, slim sightlines, and exceptional security. 

Our standard sliding doors open and close in line, with the large door panes stacked one behind the other.
 
Our lift and slide doors are opened by turning the handle to lift the door on a double or triple track, then sliding it to the side. Individual door sashes can be locked in place at any point within the opening. Thanks to our lift and slide doors’ innovative sealing technology, they have some of the most energy efficient ratings on the market. 

What is a patio door? 

Originally, the term ‘patio doors’ was simply another name for sliding doors. Over time, it came to refer to all types of doors that open out onto a garden or patio, including French, sliding, and bifold doors. 

All of Alimax’s aluminium patio doors feature an elegant external design encasing modern security and thermal innovations. They are PAS 24 certified, meaning they have been rigorously tested and assessed for high security, and incorporate thermal breaks for enhanced insulation. You can choose from all standard RAL colours, single or dual, to perfectly match with the property. 

Premium patio doors, bespoke for your project  

At Alimax, we specialise in the design, manufacture, and supply of premium aluminium doors and windows for trade. 

Each of our doors are made to measure in our state-of-the-art factory in Hampshire. We base our designs on your exact requirements, so you can be sure you’re getting the perfect piece for your project. 

• Lead times start from as little as 10 days 
• No need to pick up your doors in person  - we deliver to you directly on site 
• Windows and doors up to 7x3m come fully assembled for ease of installation. 

Get a quote online or give us a call on 01425 205465. Alternatively, pay a visit to our showroom to see the quality of our work up close!