What’s in the box

• Aluminium or uPVC sliding door frame + sashes (2/3-panel or stacker).
• Sealed IGU (insulating glass unit): two panes + spacer (air/argon), optional Low-E coatings.
• Rollers, tracks, multi-point lock, seals, meeting stile, trims.
• Removal of old door + disposal, flashing & weatherproofing.

Key specifications

• U-value: lower = better insulation. Typical DG windows ~1.2–3.0 (product-dependent). :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Rw (acoustic): higher = better sound reduction; design, seals and glass build matter. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Standards: External glazed doors must be tested to AS 2047. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Materials & construction

uPVC frames generally achieve lower U-values than standard aluminium; thermal-break aluminium narrows that gap. Some AU providers advertise U-values down to ~1.2 on certain systems. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

For coastal homes, specify marine-grade finishes, stainless fixings, and diligent track maintenance.

Ergonomics/usability & durability

• Quality rollers + level tracks = smooth glide.
• Low-E coatings improve comfort (less radiant heat), common in premium AU systems. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Check gaskets/brush seals and frame drainage—key to weathering and acoustics. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Setup / installation

1. Confirm opening & structural checks; choose aluminium or uPVC system.
2. Order IGU spec (air/argon, Low-E, laminated/asymmetric if noise-sensitive).
3. Install to manufacturer manual; verify AS 2047 label & documentation. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

Daily usage

• Glide should be light with correct roller adjustment and clean tracks.
• Condensation risk drops with DG; frame & room humidity still matter. (See Low-E + thermal break notes.) :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• Pair with louvre windows for ventilation without opening the large door.

Direct competitors

• Single-glazed aluminium sliders: cheapest upfront, weakest thermal/acoustic performance.
• Laminated single glazing: can rival/beat basic DG for noise in some cases. :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Secondary glazing systems: larger air gaps can dramatically lift Rw. :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}

Price comparison & value

Expect DG to carry a premium over single-glazed units; actual ROI depends on climate, orientation, and electricity/gas costs. Cross-check supplier U-values and WERS stars rather than marketing claims. :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

Best for

• Homes on busy roads / near rail or airports (spec asymmetric/laminated IGU for noise). :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}
• Hot or cold climates seeking lower bills (Low-E, argon, thermal break). :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}
• Coastal homes wanting corrosion-aware hardware and finishes.

Skip if

• You need absolute lowest upfront price (consider single glaze with draft-proofing).
• Your main issue is sound at specific frequencies—laminated or secondary glazing may perform better. :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}

Data snapshots (2024–2025 sources)

• AU Govt: Double glazing can reduce heat loss up to ~30%; check WERS for product ratings. :contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}
• Typical AU costs for sliding doors and installs in 2025 roundups. :contentReference[oaicite:33]{index=33}
• U-values: many DG systems fall ~1.2–3.0; some suppliers cite lows near 1.2. :contentReference[oaicite:34]{index=34}
• Acoustics: Every +1 Rw ≈ ~1 dB less transmission; asymmetric DG/laminated can outperform equal-thickness DG. :contentReference[oaicite:35]{index=35}
• AS 2047: external glazed doors must be tested; verify labels/certificates. :contentReference[oaicite:36]{index=36}

Short, verifiable 2025 testimonial

Explainer video

Illustrative; always compare WERS labels and AS 2047 test data for the exact product you buy.

Simple infographic (noise & spec)