Comparing Traditional vs. New-Generation uPVC Sliding Doors

If you need new patio sliding doors, you must decide whether to use traditional wood/metal doors or upgraded uPVC doors. This choice depends on what matters most – appearance, durability, safety, energy savings, and cost. Below, we’ll compare the points of standard sliding doors versus new uPVC sliding doors. This will help guide your decision.

Here are the basis of the difference

1. Appearance & Design Options

Plain white uPVC doors have a bad reputation of having limited options, but the new generation of uPVC brings major aesthetic upgrades. While traditional uPVC doors are limited to primary colours and fake wood grain finishes, modern options include:

• Realistic wood laminate coatings like oak, cherry, maple and more
• Stylish colour coatings in any hue like red, green, black, etc. 
• Modern minimalist designs with ultra-slim frames

With endless possibilities for personalisation, new uPVC doors can match any home’s architecture and style. The slimmer frames mean more glass area for inviting in natural light. 

2. Durability & Longevity

Both old and new uPVC doors outperform wood and metal options regarding low maintenance and weather resistance. uPVC’s dense plastic withstands rain, snow, humidity, salt, insects, mould and more without warping, rotting or rusting. However, there are some differences:

Traditional uPVC contains more plasticisers, which can break down over time, causing discolouration or brittleness.

• Traditional uPVC contains more plasticisers, which can break down over time, causing discolouration or brittleness.
• Newer formulas use less plasticiser and more acrylic to enhance UV resistance.
• Modern uPVC contains recycled materials and more protective compounds for superior durability.  
• Newer welding and joint methods create more rigid, long-lasting frames.

Upgraded uPVC is built to maintain its flawless appearance and functionality for 20+ years. It won’t flake, swell, crack or peel like painted wood doors.

3. Energy Efficiency

Given their plastic construction, both uPVC doors provide better insulation than metal or wood. But new generation options take energy savings to the next level with:

• Multi-chambered internal framing with advanced insulating foam.
• Double or triple glazing using energy-efficient Low-E glass and inert gas between panes.
• Superior sealed frames and weatherstripping prevent air leakage.
• Internal steel or fibreglass reinforcement adds rigidity for optimal insulation.

By preventing heat loss in winter & heat gain in summer, cutting-edge uPVC doors can reduce energy bills by up to 20% annually.

4. Noise Reduction

If you live on a noisy street, both traditional and up-to-date uPVC sliding doors can help dampen outside noise more effectively than less dense materials. Newer acoustic technologies take sound dampening a step further with:

• Improved construction and sealing around frames to block noise infiltration.
• Internal chambers and insulation materials to inhibit reverberation.

5. Security

Heavy-duty uPVC frames resist forced entry, unlike flimsy old metal and wood patio doors. Both traditional and new models offer multi-point locking mechanisms for security. However, contemporary features like:

• Internal steel reinforcement for kick-proofing. 
• Pick-resistant locks and tamper-proof hardware.
• Keyed locks on all doors for added safety.
• Laminated and toughened double glazing to prevent glass break-ins. 

Make cutting-edge uPVC doors an even safer barrier against intruders.

6. Eco-Friendliness

uPVC has always scored points for sustainability compared to natural wood, which depletes forests. But new generation uPVC doors have:

• Increased use of recycled materials in production. 
• Significantly reduced carbon footprint from enhanced energy efficiency.
• Long lifespan keeps doors out of landfills.

Choosing upgraded uPVC is a win for your home and the environment.

7. Cost Comparisons

Price matters when upgrading home features. Traditional uPVC sliding doors have been an affordable option. New generation doors cost more upfront but offer enhanced value through:

• Significantly lower lifetime maintenance costs.
• Reduced energy expenditure over time.
• Less frequent replacement needed.  
• Added resale value and ROI.

Modern uPVC doors may be pricier but deliver outstanding long-term investment.

The Bottom Line

When choosing sliding patio doors, traditional white uPVC or upgraded contemporary uPVC both outperform wood and metal options in critical areas like weather resistance, low maintenance, insulation, safety and cost. However, new-generation uPVC doors offer major advantages over traditional doors. New generation uPVC doors are a clear winner for a balance of aesthetics, functionality and longevity. Give your home a modern, eco-friendly upgrade with the latest sliding door technology with the help of AIS Windows.