Increase in patio door sales while
Bi-folds remain ‘static’
15th July 2014

Emplas has reported a 20 per cent jump in sales of inline-sliding doors this calendar year on the back of increased volume of foiled product sales.

This compares to lower figures for bi-fold doors, which according to the Northamptonshire-based national trade fabricator, remained static in comparison.

Emplas’ Sales and Marketing Director, Mike Crewdson, said that reliability, coupled with new flexibility delivered by foil and colour choices, gave inline sliding doors ‘new relevance’ in a contemporary market.

He said: “Bi-fold doors have probably been a slower burner than we expected. It’s in part because of the cost differentials but also because colour, is making inline sliding doors a viable alternative and a far more cost effective option, on contemporary home improvement projects and developments.

“Installers also like them because there isn’t a lot to go wrong with them. Inline sliding doors are an established technology and that means that they’re almost ‘fit and forget’. Call backs are rare, especially when compared to bi-fold doors which are more challenging to install and which can also need regular adjustment.”

Inline sliding doors from Emplas, are available in in two, three and four pane options and feature either a sculptured or chamfered sash. A slim stepped 86mm outer frame reduces plaster cutback and enhances visual appearance, while a choice of 17 foiled finishes, and low line gaskets further, enhance aesthetics and appeal.

A three chamber sash delivers maximum thermal efficiency and strength, while a six-point locking, mechanism delivers exceptional security. Emplas can also offer a wide range of accessories, including handles in white, black, chrome or Gold, plus anodised gold and silver option. An optional low track, low threshold system is also available.

Crewdson added: “It’s a solid product, it delivers a high level of thermal efficiency, good weather tightness and security and it’s an established product.

“It’s also worth remembering that inline sliding doors probably deliver a better aesthetic with fewer mullions when the doors are closed.

“It isn’t that bi-fold doors don’t have great potential or aren’t a great product, it’s simply that in general terms we aren’t seeing the volume, at a time when colour is delivering new flexibility to the inline sliding door – something which appears to be striking a chord with the consumer.”


www.emplas.co.uk