The right patio doors depend on how you use the opening. You might want an easy route into the garden, room for furniture or a particular view when the doors are closed. French, bifold, lift and slide, and PSK doors move differently. Compare the proposed layout as well as the appearance.
French doors swing on hinges
French doors have two door panels that open on hinges. The proposed design determines which way they open and how much space each needs. Think about furniture, plant pots and the route outside. Ask for the opening arrangement to be shown on the drawing. Other opening functions depend on the selected system and should appear in the quote if included.
Bifold doors fold to the side
Linked panels fold and collect at one or both sides, depending on the design. Allow room for them when open. If you often step outside without opening the whole set, discuss the everyday access arrangement before choosing a layout.
Lift and slide doors move across panels
Turning the handle operates a lifting mechanism so the moving panel can slide. The drawing should show which panels move and how wide a route you will have when the doors are open. Try a representative door if possible; the effort needed depends on the system and panel size.
PSK doors tilt and slide
PSK doors have a tilt position and a separate sliding movement. To slide, the panel moves away from its closed position and travels alongside the neighbouring panel. Windows4You offers PSK options in uPVC, aluminium and timber. Ask to see how the proposed system operates; available layouts depend on it.
Plan the floor levels early
The threshold is the bottom part of the frame you step over. Discuss it with the indoor floor and outside surface. Tell us about access needs early. Ask how rainwater will drain away and how wide the opening will be.
Compare the same opening and fitting work
Ask each quote to show the panel layout, frame material, glass, finish and fitting work. Request evidence for any claim about heat loss, noise reduction or security. The system name alone does not establish those results.
Questions
Are PSK and lift and slide the same?
No. PSK has a tilt position and a separate sliding movement. Lift and slide uses a lifting mechanism to prepare the panel for sliding.
Which gives the widest opening?
It depends on the size, layout and selected system. Ask for the width you can walk through when the doors are open.
Does one type guarantee a level threshold?
No. The final detail depends on the door and the inside and outside levels. Discuss access needs before ordering.
Send photos, approximate measurements and your postcode. Explain how you use the room and which arrangements you want to compare. We prepare an initial estimate; the final survey follows after you accept it.
