Exterior folding door hardware offers a high security solution

Security
Exterior folding doors can help create the vision but, due to the opening size, there is a need to ensure that the gear system provided has the high performance of a secure solution. 
  
There are different performance and test standards for burglar resistance for folding door systems: the European wide EN 1627, and the UK specific PAS 24.
  
Both documents look to confirm that systems that have passed the prescribed tests offer an enhanced security performance. Both standards demand similar testing for the system to withstand mechanical loads, dynamic impact and human attack.
  
It is extremely important that exterior folding door components that claim to have enhanced security benefits have been subjected to rigorous testing such as PAS 24 and EN 1627 – preferably both – as they ensure security of the highest standard.
  

Secured by Design (SBD) is the official UK Police flagship initiative supporting the principles of designing out crime. Owned by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), SBD focuses on crime prevention in homes and commercial premises and promotes the use of security standards for a wide range of applications and products. Products with Secured by Design certification show they have been rigorously tested to withstand forced entry.
  
The accreditation and standards available acknowledge quality security products and mean that certified systems meet the requirements to be classified as burglar resistant. 
  
However, the extremes of the British weather also have to be taken into account as this is a big factor in wear and tear on mechanisms, potentially leaving them vulnerable to attack. A product must have corrosion resistant qualities so that durability over time is maintained.
  
Whether for a new build or refurbishment, it is important to look for the right combination of high performance product coupled with the style that can help create the desired finish.

Refurbishments
With house prices rising and a shortage of homes for sale, many homeowners today are looking to improve their homes rather than move. Recent research from The Bank of England indicates that homeowners are paying off mortgages early or adding value to the home with conversions and extensions.
  

We’ve seen that homeowners are aspiring to create an indoor/outdoor living experience to enhance their home environment. With a rise in the cost of living and homeowners still gaining confidence as we move out of a volatile housing market, it is no surprise that many are looking to improve not move. This recent demand for home improvement has meant we’ve extended one of our most popular ranges to include a new weight category, hinge designs and a new black finish to answer aesthetic demand.
  
While sliding and folding door gear systems can help create desired space without the costs associated with an extension to the home, it is key to source the option most suited to create the ideal open plan living space without compromising security standards.

Stylish new builds
Striking effects can be achieved with exterior sliding and folding doors. Penton Architects specified sliding door hardware systems for the central dining space and garage of the architect’s own rural new build. 
  
The large sliding doors to the central dining space utilise a lift and slide base system which was specified for its performance and ability to be housed into a bespoke glazed timber screen and cill system. The dining room doors open up the side of the house and are used daily during the summer months for ventilation and access to external terracing to create an indoor/outdoor experience.
  

The external system was suitable for the project as it is designed to accommodate large door leaves of up to 3 x 3m. The hardware system also provides superior weather resistance due to its bottom pad and anti-derail plate which provides a secure seal between the central meeting point stiles and the threshold. 

Functionality and design
Security, function and the design of the building all need to be taken into account when specifying sliding door systems. The need is to balance high performing functionality of a secure solution with a look and feel desired by the client.