In this blog we will be looking at External sliding door systems. These systems are manufactured for outside doors, featuring the best technology to maximise durability and withstand harsh weather conditions and corrosion. Although these systems are designed for external use, they can also be used on internal doors where a heavier duty/ more durable system is desired.
External Doors for Unheated Properties
For unheated properties such as garages, barns, summer houses, shutters etc. externally rated sliding systems can be used without seals. The best systems for these types of buildings are the Eternal systems, there are three Eternal systems each with different weight ratings. The Eternal 130 system can be used for external doors weighing up to 130kgs each, and the Eternal 180 system can take doors of up to 180kg each. Finally, the Eternal 250, our heaviest rated external system, can be used with doors weighing up to 250kg each.
External Doors for Heated Properties
Heated properties like houses, conservatories, indoor swimming pools, etc. will require sealing, unlike with unheated properties. The sealing kits are available on our website as an add on, and can be used with any of our externally rated systems. Bottom rolling kits such as the SF-70 or the SF-150 are the best systems for these properties as they have 4 points of contact, ensuring the seals work correctly to keep out the elements, and also to stop heat from escaping.
Sealing Kits
Sealing kits are recommended to be used alongside bottom rolling systems, such as the SF-70 or SF-150 systems in heated buildings. The seal kits include a compressible seal for the perimeter of the sliding door, as well as an interlocking seal on the black edge which sits between the fixed panel and sliding panel (see diagram) to create a seal. It is also important to ensure you have a good door frame which is designed to be use with seals, this would usually mean you would have to create your own frame.
Locations and Weather Conditions
Before installing or buying an external sliding door, it is important to think about the location of the door, for example is it in a really windy location, do you live by the sea where the air will be saltier? These are all factors which need to be considered when looking at the different systems. We would recommend the Eternal systems for windier locations or saltier environments. The Perlan system is another system which can be used externally, perfect for colder, inland locations. Though the Perlan is an internally rated system, it is heavy duty and has been successfully used for External doors before.
For more information on external sliding systems, or any of our other products, do not hesitate to get in touch by phone or e-mail. We are always happy to help.
