If you’re in the market for a new door, you might be wondering about the differences between sectional doors and sliding doors. While both have their unique features and benefits, there are three major differences you should consider before making a choice.
Design: How They Work
Sectional overhead doors are designed with vertical slide rails and sliders on the door frame, allowing the door panel to slide upwards and fold horizontally into sections. Sliding doors, on the other hand, feature horizontal slide rails and pulleys. Which enable the door panel to slide along the wall in a horizontal direction.
Function: Different Uses
Sectional doors are ideal for larger doorways and offer excellent sound insulation for environments that require a quiet atmosphere. Sliding doors, on the other hand, open horizontally to the left or right, making them an excellent choice for smaller spaces where a swinging door would take up too much room. However, for larger openings, the weight of a single sliding door panel can be inconvenient to install and repair if damaged.
Installation: Ease of Installation
Installation of sectional doors requires the installation of rails and sliders on the wall, which requires experience and skill. The door frame must also be fixed to the wall to ensure the door panel doesn’t move while sliding. On the other hand, sliding doors are easier to install since the door panel doesn’t require wall installation. The slide rail and trolley are the only components required to be installed on the door frame. Moreover, sliding door frames are generally lighter than sectional door frames and less wind-resistant than sliding doors. It makes them more effortless to mount to the wall.
In conclusion, both sectional and sliding doors have their unique advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right door type will depend on various factors such as the doorway size, its purpose, and installation conditions. By considering these three major differences, you can select the door type that best fits your specific needs.
