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Why Sliding Doors Can Be Expensive & Why They’re Worth It

Written on April 11, 2025
home with a lift & slide door

Key Takeaways

  • Sliding doors, while more expensive than traditional doors, come with numerous benefits that justify their cost.
  • The material you choose—like aluminum, wood, or vinyl—can have a big impact on the price of sliding doors.
  • Built-in security features might raise the cost, but they add important layers of protection to sliding doors.
  • Sliding doors boost a home's style by letting in tons of natural light and creating a smooth flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • Panda Windows & Doors can deliver your custom luxury sliding door within 8-10 weeks.

Why Sliding Doors Can Be Expensive (7 Factors Affecting Price)

1. Materials Quality

Your choice of material - uPVC, aluminum, wood, or steel - impacts the cost. High-quality materials like aluminum or steel are generally more expensive due to their durability and long lifespan.

2. Glass Type and Features

Glass type matters—whether it’s single, double, or triple glazing, it affects the price. Options like tempered or laminated glass cost more but promote extra strength and security.

3. Size and Customization

Larger sliding glass doors require more materials and complex installation, which increases their price. Custom-sized doors or unique designs also add to the cost.

4. Hardware and Accessories

"Features like premium hardware, built-in blinds, and advanced locks add to the cost—but they also boost the door’s quality and functionality.

5. Installation Complexity

The complexity of installation, including any structural modifications needed, impacts the overall expense. Professional installation services can vary widely in cost based on your location and local labor rates.

6. Design and Aesthetic Options

Custom finishes, such as bespoke colors or wood grain effects, increase costs due to the specialized manufacturing process.

7. Location and Market Factors

Prices of sliding glass doors can vary based on your regional market conditions, supplier availability, and local labor costs (for manufacturing).

Since our founding in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors has specialized in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our product offerings, which include over 80 high-end options, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows, are available in a range of materials, including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.
Our company is widely recognized for its award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and rapid delivery times. We ensure that our customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean receive their products within 6-10 weeks. Our company is trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, and we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.
Learn About Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

Why Sliding Doors Are Worth The Price

commercial space

Sliding doors suit both commercial and residential properties.

1. Higher Property Value

High-end and impact-resistant sliding doors may cost more, but they’re worth it for the boost they bring to your property’s value. Along with their sleek, modern look, sliding doors offer perks like more natural light and smooth indoor-outdoor flow—features that really appeal to buyers.

2. Long-Term Cost Savings

Energy-efficient models, with features like advanced glazing and thermal breaks, can significantly reduce your energy consumption by minimizing heat transfer between indoors and outdoors. This results in lower utility bills over time, which can help offset your initial investment.

Additionally, the durability of sliding doors (when made using a strong material like steel) means fewer repairs and replacements are needed.

3. Space Efficiency

Unlike traditional hinged doors, these doors do not require swing clearance, allowing furniture to be placed closer to the door without obstructing its operation. As such, sliding doors are ideal for urban homes or smaller rooms.

4. Safety and Security

Basic sliding doors can be less secure, but models with strong frames and reinforced glass ensure solid protection for your home. To take this even further, you can opt for a sliding door with a multi-point locking system.

Use Cases Of Sliding Doors

  1. Residential Homes: Patio doors, balcony doors, and room dividers.
  2. Commercial Spaces: Office doors, conference room dividers, and retail storefronts.
  3. Hotels and Restaurants: Terraces, outdoor dining areas, and lobby entrances.
  4. Outdoor Spaces: Connecting indoor and outdoor living areas, such as gardens or decks.
  5. Small Rooms: Bathrooms and closets.

Choose Panda Windows & Doors For Custom Sliding Doors

office

If you are not sure which sliding door would be right for you, reach out to our experts.

When you're looking for custom sliding doors, you want a partner that understands luxury, precision, and your unique vision. At Panda Windows & Doors, you will find that partner. Here’s why choosing us is a decision you won't regret:

1. Unmatched Customization: Need a specific size that other companies can't provide? Have a unique architectural vision? We can match your exact specifications with our custom solutions.

2. Top Quality: We use only the finest hardware from leading manufacturers worldwide for durability and smooth operation. Plus, many of our sliding doors are NFRC-tested and impact-rated, so you can trust their performance.

3. Premium Materials: We give you a variety of high-end material options to fit your aesthetic and performance needs, including aluminum, steel, stainless steel, architectural bronze, and wood.

4. Massive Dimensions: Our panels are available in massive dimensions - up to 24ft tall or 16ft wide - to create breathtaking views.

5. Smart Home Integration: We provide automation, smart home integration, and keyless entry systems to add convenience and modern functionality to your sliding doors.

Reach out to us to learn more about our products and get a free quote.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I consider when choosing sliding doors?

When choosing sliding doors, consider the following factors:

  • Material: Choose a material that suits your budget and maintenance capabilities.
  • Security: Look for doors with advanced locking mechanisms for added safety.
  • Design: Consider how the door's design will complement your home's style.
  • Energy Efficiency: Opt for features that improve insulation and reduce energy costs.

Are sliding doors suited for all climates?

Sliding doors can be suited for all climates if they are equipped with the right features. In colder climates, choose doors with high insulation properties to prevent heat loss. In warmer regions, opt for doors with UV-resistant glass to reduce heat gain.

How do I insulate sliding glass doors?

  • Adding weather stripping around the edges helps seal gaps and prevent air leaks.
  • Installing thermal curtains or blinds provides an additional layer of insulation.
  • Upgrading to double or triple glazing significantly reduces heat transfer and improves energy efficiency.

Read More: Top Window Frame Materials for Maximum Insulation

How often should sliding doors be maintained?

Clean the glass and frames monthly, and lubricate the track and rollers every six months. Check the locking mechanisms periodically so they function correctly. This will keep your doors in optimal condition.

What types of sliding doors does Panda Windows & Doors provide?

1. Lift & slide

2. Multi-slide

3. Horizontal sliding walls