Do Sliding Patio Doors Save Space?
Sliding patio doors have become very popular in the UK for modern homes, one of these reasons is their space saving design. Unlike doors with hinges, sliding doors run along a track, which eliminates the space needed for a door to swing open. This makes the sliding door very practical for exterior and interior spaces.
Sliding Doors Don’t Need Swing Clearance
Unliked traditional hinged doors, sliding doors move along a track, so they do not require extra space for the door to swing open. This means:
- Furniture can be closer to the door without blocking it.
- Tight areas or smaller rooms remain fully functional.
- Outdoor spaces, such as balconies, and patios, don’t need the extra clearance.
The simple design of a sliding door alone saves a good amount of usable space.
Maximising Interior Layouts
Sliding doors allow property owners to use space more efficiently:
- Place sofas, dining tables or shelves closer to the doors.
- Avoid the empty zone that is needed for hinged swinging doors.
- Keeps traffic flowing easy in busy family homes.
For open plan layouts or smaller rooms, sliding doors can make a big difference in functionality.
Efficient Use of Outdoor Space
Sliding doors can help to make the most of the outside areas. Since sliding doors slide parallel they:
- Don’t need the extra space for the door to swing open on patios or decking.
- Reduced risk of knocking over outdoor furniture when opening the door.
- Provide a cleaner, uncluttered outdoor living area.
These make sliding doors ideal for terraces, narrow patios, or areas with seating and planters.
Large Glass Panels Without Losing Space
Sliding doors come with wide panels, these allow more natural light to enter your home without the need for extra space. Compared to hinged or french doors:
- Sliding doors maintain a clean flow between the outdoors and indoors.
- Property owners can enjoy beautiful views without sacrificing floor space.
- The wide opening of sliding doors makes them practical for moving large items and for entertaining.
Sliding Doors vs Other Door Types
| Door Type | Space Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sliding | Minimal | Slides along a rail track, no swing opener required. |
| Bifold | Medium | Panels close and stack sideways, needs extra wall space for folding. |
| Hinged / French Doors | High | Needs full swing clearance for opening outside or inside. |
Sliding doors can help to save the most usable space, making them an ideal choice for compact areas.
Practical Considerations
To get the most from sliding doors, consider:
- Smooth tracks allow for effortless operations.
- Panel overlap – Some sliding doors may require some space for stacked panels.
- Maintenance – Keeping the sliding door track clean helps the door to slide easy.
A well chosen sliding door combines space efficiency with ease of use and durability.
Conclusion
Yes, sliding doors can save space. Their track design eliminates the need for swing clearance, maximising both exterior and interior layouts, and allow for large glass panels which enhances views and light. For many homeowners looking for more space without sacrificing styles, sliding patio doors provide a visually and practical way.
