Are you torn between fibreglass and vinyl sliding doors for your patio? These two materials are great options for patio doors. They are incredibly durable and have impressive energy ratings. However, these two materials have variations that you should look into when making a choice. With this in mind, here is a detailed comparison to help you choose between these two materials for your sliding patio doors. 

Aesthetics and Style Options

Your patio door can make or break the visual appeal of your home. Therefore, it's worth looking into the aesthetics of the door and the available style options. Both vinyl and fibreglass have numerous design options. Whichever style of colour you want for your door, you can get it. This makes it easy to match your patio door to the rest of the interior decor.

However, fibreglass has an edge when it comes to aesthetics. The material is stronger than vinyl, and this allows you to maximise the glass on your door. Its strength allows it to support glass better; therefore, if you want your patio door to be made mostly of glass, fibreglass is your best bet. As a result, you get an unobstructed view of your yard and allow more natural light into your home.

Durability and Wear Resistance

Both fibreglass and vinyl are durable materials. However, vinyl tends to be more prone to wear. Direct exposure to UV radiation can cause vinyl to warp over time. Therefore, if you choose this material, it's advisable to install an awning over the door to protect it from UV damage. Additionally, vinyl expands at a higher rate than glass, and this can deteriorate the seals and expose the door to leaks and fogging.

On the other hand, fibreglass exhibits incredible strength and resistance to UV damage. You don't have to worry about your door warping over time due to exposure to the sun. What's more, fibreglass expands at the same rate as glass. This maintains the integrity of the seals and protects the door from leaks. 

Sliding Door Operation

One challenge you may face with sliding doors is that they tend to get stuck mid-operation. This is a common problem with vinyl patio doors. If you get cheap vinyl with low-quality rollers and hardware, the door may be difficult to operate. Additionally, when exposed to heat, the material will expand and cause the door to stick.

On the other hand, fibreglass guarantees excellent operation all year round. The extra strength of the material and its quality ensures the door opens and closes smoothly without the exertion of physical pressure. This is an excellent choice if you live with elderly loved ones who may not have the physical strength to fight a stuck door.

Fibreglass is a better material for your sliding patio door than vinyl. It may be pricier, but the cost will be worth it in the long run. Speak with sliding doors suppliers for more information.