The focus in structural glazing will always be on the glass itself, but the supporting materials are just as important in creating a safe, secure and highly functional door system.
The architectural impact of slimline glazed door systems is only possible thanks to the supporting structural materials.
These need to offer strength, flexibility and durability to support the weight of the glass, compliment its thermal properties and allow the door system to be opened effortlessly as the specification demands.
The success of a particular slimline glazed door systems depends very much on the quality of its runners and frames, with the quality of the system being measured as whole.
As with the high-spec glazing that allows for 20mm sightlines, the technical specification of the frames and runners is just as important.
Aluminium frames: The ultimate support for slimline glazed door systems
Aluminium has become synonymous with slimline glazed door systems as its properties allow for minimal intrusion while offering exceptional strength.
Aluminium looks great, it is on trend, minimalistic and can be used flexibly, making it highly suitable for stylish installations of architectural glazing.
The suitability of aluminium in slimline glazing though is down to more than just good looks.
The inherent properties of aluminium as a building material make it:
- Strong
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Resistant to corrosion
- Malleable
These key benefits of aluminium make it the perfect frame material to partner slimline glass. Its low density supports minimal sightlines, while offering the strength needed to hold large panes of glazing in place.
Thanks to its durability, frames created with aluminium are built to last and will not begin to show signs of wear due to exposure to the elements.
With architectural glazing continuing to increase in popularity and the use of glass features of different shapes and sizes, the flexibility of aluminium supports this through being able to be shaped easily during manufacturing.
In terms of being the perfect partner to high spec slimline glazing, aluminium is stable, so it won’t easily warp or move when in place, it is tough – making it ideal when securing a property, and needs very little maintenance.
Why stainless steel runners are the best fit for slimline glazed door systems
While aluminium boasts an ideal set of properties to form lightweight, minimal door frames, stainless steel delivers the strength that is demanded of runners.
The natural toughness of stainless steel makes it ideal for runners that need to be robust and resistant to pressure. To ensure doors continue to move effortlessly, stainless steel is the material of choice when it comes to the runners that will support them and guide them across openings.
Stainless steel is:
- Robust
- Durable
- Resistant to corrosion
- Very strong
These qualities make stainless steel an obvious choice for runners to support slimline glazed door systems. Like aluminium, stainless steel also looks great and requires very little maintenance.
In creating an aesthetically excellent and highly functional slimline glazed door system, the choice of materials will hugely impact its durability and longevity.
Long lasting, secure glazing solutions
Safe, secure and strong, aluminium and stainless steel are the pairing that high spec glass deserves if it will continue to shine and deliver architectural excellence.
Sightline is committed to creating and manufacturing cutting edge glazing solutions that match high quality with stunning style. Our slimline glazed door systems combine high specification structural glazing with carefully designed frame and runner support for optimal durability, longevity and security.
Sightline’s slimline sliding doors and rooflights are made and installed with a commitment to innovation and quality. We will work with you to make sure you find the perfect glazing solution to complement your building project – whatever that may be.
To find out more about Sightline Aluminium Glazing System’s products please contact us.
