Sliding doors can transform living spaces by bringing in light and saving space. These space-saving doors take up less room than traditional swinging doors and improve airflow in a home. However, selecting the wrong door can lead to problems like drafts, difficult operation, and higher costs. To get the best performance and longevity from your sliding doors, avoid these common mistakes when choosing and installing them:
1. Failing to Measure Properly
One of the most frequent errors is inaccurate measuring. Homeowners often measure only the glass panel and forget the frame, track and threshold. You should measure the entire door opening from inside (not outside) and account for the door track and sill. Skipping these steps can result in a sliding door that doesn’t fit, causing delays or costly modifications. Always double-check measurements at multiple points to ensure the opening is square and fits the new door.
2. Ignoring Weather Performance and Standards
Choosing a sliding door without considering your local climate and performance ratings is a serious mistake. In windy or rainy areas, look for doors with high performance grades for air and water resistance. In a harsh climate, doors must resist dust, heat and storms. Ask about air infiltration rates, water-pressure ratings and design pressure specifications. If a door performs poorly on these metrics, it’s not a reliable choice for you. Make sure the model meets strict local standards.
3. Prioritizing Looks Over Function
It’s tempting to pick a sleek, modern-looking sliding door, but aesthetics should come after function. Experts advise focusing on durability, insulation and security first. For instance, narrow frames and minimal hardware may look attractive but can compromise strength. A common trap is choosing style over performance. Remember that the door’s ability to protect against weather, provide insulation and maintain security is more important than a minor design detail.
4. Overlooking Energy Efficiency Features
Doors with poor insulation can drive up cooling costs, yet many buyers skip checking energy-saving features. Look for double- or triple-pane units filled with argon (for insulation) and low-emissivity (Low-E) glass coatings. These features significantly reduce heat transfer and keep interiors comfortable. Ignoring them means picking a door that won’t insulate well in the Gulf’s heat. Ensuring the frame has thermal breaks also helps prevent heat conduction.
5. Choosing the Wrong Frame Material
Not all frame materials perform the same in extreme weather. Aluminum, wood, vinyl and composite all behave differently. For example, aluminum frames resist corrosion and decay, and they offer excellent strength while remaining lightweight. Wood looks beautiful but can warp or swell in high humidity or heat. In the UAE’s sun and sand, consider materials (like aluminum or treated uPVC) that won’t rust, rot or fade. Avoid cheap frames; investing in a high-quality frame pays off in durability.
6. Ignoring Drainage and Sealing
Sliding doors often collect water on the sill, so good drainage is critical. A big mistake is overlooking the door’s sill design and slope. Sliding doors are designed to drain water out of the bottom track; if the slope or drainage system is wrong, the door will leak. When selecting a door, verify it has a built-in threshold drain or angled sill. Also check that weather-stripping and gaskets are high quality. Poor seals or clogged drains can cause water to leak inside and damage the floor and frame.
7. Underestimating Security and Hardware Quality
Security is often forgotten until after installation. Many standard sliding door locks are basic latches that can be bypassed. Choosing a sliding door with weak hardware is a mistake. Look for multi-point locking systems or reach-out latches designed for sliding doors. The door’s rollers and track matter too: cheap or misaligned rollers can make the door easy to lift off the track. Invest in robust, tamper-resistant locks and quality rollers for secure operation.
8. Opting for Single-Pane or Low-Quality Glass
Some buyers try to save money by selecting single-pane glass, but this sacrifices performance. Single-pane sliding doors are much easier to break and offer almost no insulation. In fact, experts recommend avoiding models with only one layer of glass, as they provide poor soundproofing and security. Instead, choose tempered safety glass with multiple panes. Laminated or tempered glass will not shatter like standard glass and adds a layer of security.
9. Skipping Double or Triple Glazing
Closely related to mistake #8, neglecting double/triple glazing is another pitfall. Multi-pane doors (double or triple glazed) dramatically improve thermal and acoustic insulation. This is especially important in hot climates: double/triple glazing keeps heat out and cool air in, reducing energy use. If you skip these features, you’ll end up with a drafty, noisy door that raises your energy bills. Always opt for double or triple glazing with quality gas fills when possible.
10. Overlooking Brand Reputation and Warranty
Choosing a sliding door from an unknown or cheap brand to save money can backfire. Reputable manufacturers (like BES) offer reliable warranties and quality control. A common mistake is not checking the warranty or reading user reviews. If a door fails prematurely or underperforms, a solid warranty and support will save you hassle. In the UAE market, established brands often use higher-quality components.
11. Ignoring Proper Installation
Even the best sliding door can be ruined by poor installation. Some buyers assume DIY or inexperienced installers can fit any door, but this is risky. Improper alignment or uneven tracks can cause gaps, jams or uneven movement. Make sure your installer is certified or recommended. Verify that the track is level and the frame is square. Professional installation ensures that the door operates smoothly, seals correctly, and lives up to its performance ratings.
12. Neglecting Weather-Stripping and Seals
Finally, don’t overlook weather-stripping and seals. Damaged or missing seals let in drafts, dust and moisture. Worn-out weather-stripping should be replaced promptly to maintain energy efficiency. When shopping for doors, inspect the condition of any seals on display models or ask if new seals are included. High-quality seals create a tight barrier against air and water. This helps your sliding door keep the weather out and your climate control bills down.
Best Place To Upgrade Your Space In UAE
Looking to upgrade your space with reliable, stylish, and durable sliding doors? Choose BES, the trusted name in the UAE for modern door solutions that combine design, performance, and peace of mind. Get in touch with our experts today to find the perfect fit for your home or project.
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