How do patio doors work?

Patio doors, also commonly referred to as sliding glass doors, operate on a track and roller system that allows the door panels to slide horizontally past each other to open and close. Here's an overview of how patio doors work:

Door Panels:

- Patio doors typically consist of two or more door panels made of glass, framed with a surrounding material such as aluminum, vinyl, or wood.

Track:

- A horizontal track is installed at the top and bottom of the door opening. The top track may be hidden within a header box above the door frame, while the bottom track is usually visible.

Rollers:

- Each door panel has rollers or ball bearings attached to its top and bottom edges. These rollers fit into the tracks and allow the door panel to slide smoothly.

Sliding Mechanism:

- To open a patio door, simply slide one or both door panels to the side by applying gentle pressure. The panels glide effortlessly on the rollers along the track until they reach the desired open position.

Locking Mechanism:

- Patio doors have a locking mechanism to secure them when closed. The locking mechanism can vary but usually involves a lever or latch on one door panel that engages with a strike plate attached to the fixed frame.

Handles:

- Handles or pull handles are mounted on the door panels to enable pushing or pulling the doors open and closed. Some patio door designs may feature recessed handles.

Additional Features:

- Modern patio doors can come with various additional features, such as double glazing or triple glazing for improved energy efficiency, tinted or insulated glass, safety glass for increased durability, and multi-point locking systems for enhanced security.

By combining a track and roller system with sliding glass panels, patio doors provide a convenient and space-saving option for accessing outdoor areas or creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces.