More often than not, sliding doors are a reliable patio door replacement choice for a variety of home improvements that wish to take the eye further than the living space. Sliding to the side for effortless access between home and garden, natural light intake and cooling ventilation are maximised as well as kerb appeal.
So, you like the sound of sliding patio door replacements, but can’t decide whether uPVC or aluminium patio doors are right for your project…? Well, you’re not alone! Let’s explore the benefits of these popular patio door materials together.
What is the best material to use for patio doors, uPVC or aluminium?
uPVC and aluminium patio doors have quite a few things in common, most notably; they never need to be repainted and are both highly resistant to corrosion and rot. Largely a matter of personal taste, the following differences will help you determine the most suitable patio door material for your project.
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Sliding panels
All of our patio doors are uniquely designed, which is why our sliding doors can be installed with a number of glass panes to fit your room’s size. Our uPVC sliding patio doors can be fitted as a 2, 3 or 4 pane door, ideal for space saving arrangements tailored to terraced and semi-detached houses, flats, and balconies. Whereas our aluminium patio doors can be designed with up to 6 panes, perfect for creating striking focal points and contemporary ‘walls of glass.’
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Thermal efficiency
When it comes to efficiency, thanks to their multi-chambered design, uPVC sliding doors offer the best performance. Although, if your patio door replacement project requires the slimmest frames combined with dependable draught-proofing qualities, our aluminium sliding doors from Origin aren’t far behind, featuring multi-layered, insulating frames complete with innovative thermal break barriers designed to prevent heat from escaping.
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Maximum door size
When it comes to unique designs and expansive configurations, aluminium is much more flexible than uPVC. Manufactured around 30% bigger than uPVC patio doors, aluminium can accommodate complex shapes and designs with ease. So, if you’re looking for a simple and compact patio door replacement, uPVC is probably your best option, with larger, wider projects more suited to slender aluminium patio doors.
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Stability & rigidity
Unlike traditional timber and standard uPVC, aluminium actively resists swelling, cracking, splitting and warping no matter what the weather throws at it! Providing excellent stability come what may, its unceasing strength is the key to its long-lasting durability; able to last at least 30 years, maintenance free. That said, our uPVC patio doors feature steel reinforcement and a 6-point locking system as standard.
Compare our patio door materials
| / | uPVC patio doors | Aluminium patio doors |
| Strength | Medium | High |
| Suitability | Any property style | Any property style |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Efficiency | High | High |
| Frames | Broad | Slimline |
uPVC vs aluminium patio doors
| / | uPVC patio doors | Aluminium patio doors |
| Colours | 150+ RAL colours and a range of woodgrain effects. Dual colour designs are also available. | 150+ RAL colours and a range of woodgrain effects. Dual colour designs are also available. |
| Glazing Options | Toughened double glazing. | Toughened double glazing. |
| Energy Efficiency | It uses a pioneering multi-chambered design to effectively retain the warmth inside. Can achieve 0.9W/m2K U-values and A++ energy ratings. | A natural insulator, aluminium features a multi-layered frame with insulated cavities. Can achieve U-values of 1.32w/m2K. |
| Security | Multi-point locks and anti-pick, bump and drill cylinders are fitted as standard to pass PAS24 standards. Their design exceeds building security regulations and can include optional security extras. | 8-point locks are fitted as standard, as is toughened glass which is 5x stronger than normal glass to pass PAS 24 testing. Additional security features can be included. |
| Life expectancy | At least 20 years, maintenance free. The anti-fade coating keeps it looking good as new. | At least 30 years, maintenance free. Corrosion-resistant, it won’t rot, rust or warp. |
| Suitability | Versatile and modern uPVC is sturdy, secure and the most cost-effective option. | A premium door material that boasts unique slimline frames. |
Learn more: Our guide to choosing replacement patio or bifold doors
Best value uPVC and aluminium patio doors in Essex, Suffolk, Hertfordshire & Surrey
Versatile and modernising, whether you prefer practical uPVC or premium aluminium patio doors, our range of quality home improvements is sure to add value and improve thermal insulation where it’s needed most. From budget-friendly uPVC sliding doors to modern aluminium bifold doors and sleek aluminium French doors, we can accommodate your needs whilst exceeding all expectations.
With up to 35% off patio doors, as well as windows and conservatories, PLUS pay only £99 deposit and pay nothing until 2023, there’s still time to extend your living space and bring the outside in. Download a brochure, visit your nearest SEH BAC showroom, get a price, or contact us online to find out more about transforming your patio doors and more.
