August 14, 2023

Sliding vs Lift and Slide Doors

Written by Rebecca Clayton

Sliding doors and lift and slide doors are both considerable options for projects in need of the best sliding systems. Both systems have advantages that may be used by an architect to enhance a design.

What are the key differences?

Sliding doors and lift and side doors are very similar types of systems with a few key differences that separate them. A sliding door is you standard sliding system that functions in a way in which the user uses their weight to simply push the door systems to one side. On the other hand, lift and side doors have a handle integrated system which allows the user to lift the handle upwards which lifts the door upwards and then allows it to slide. Both systems can cater to different needs such as varied thermal performance and aesthetic outcomes.

How Does a Lift and Slide Door Work?  

Lift and slide doors are creations of very simple engineering which works flawlessly. It is as simple as lifting the handle upwards which then drops the rollers down from inside of the frame. This movement is what allows the door to slide. When not in use the door handle will need to be pushed down which means the rollers go back up into the frame creating a watertight door to threshold seal. 

When Should I specify a Sliding Door?  

Sliding doors are great systems to have installed for projects that have a great view and have a goal to maximize the way the view is presented. Slim sliding doors have smaller sightlines than lift and side doors and thus are preferred for viewing. Another positive of standard sliding doors is easier operation. Due to the smaller frames and built-in sliding system the doors are genuinely lighter. This would be advantageous for elderly clients or young children.  

The Avino S-Timber Slider and Avino Primo Slider are both linear sliding doors with exceptional thermal performance and the natural beauty of timber. These systems slide as normal when the user pushes them to the side along the track. One key benefit of using sliding doors is that the sightlines are a mere 5cm across (if using the Avino S slider). This allows for the system to perform while offering uninterrupted views.  

You can find more information on our sliding doors here. 

When Should I Specify a Lift and Slide Door?  

Lift and slide doors have very strong thermal performance values due to the base frame interlocking with the doors when not in use. For the system to function, the frames have to be thicker than normal siding doors. While this is a downside for some designers and end clients, the thermal performance gain outweighs the minimal sacrifice of sightlines. Lift and slide doors also have dramatically increased weather tightness. This is beneficial to projects that are coastal and bound to face heavy rain and wind loads. The lift and slide mechanism also adheres to the “passiv house” environmentally friendly design style. The increased thermal performance and weather resistance will allow the end user to use less energy heating their homes as they can rely on their door systems to retain heat. 

See the lift and slide in depth here.  

Overall, both lift and slide doors and sliding doors have advantages that can benefit various types of projects. If you have any questions regarding either of our sliding systems do not hesitate to contact the team here. We hope to see our timber framing in your next project!