How does the sliding system work?

Category: All, Terrace pergolas, Terrace

Find out how the sliding system for building from movable patio blinds works and how you can make your own sliding door system for your terrace.

What is a sliding system?

A sliding system is a mechanism that allows the entire sashes of a structure to be moved sideways instead of being opened in the traditional way. This keeps the space more functional - the sashes do not take up space when opening. The sliding system allows the space to be freely arranged, depending on the weather and the needs of the users.

Due to, how the sliding system works, You will find two basic solutions on the market:

top-mounted systems only - In these, the sash hangs exclusively on the top rail, which means that it can tilt and sway slightly from side to side when moved,
top-down systems - in which the weight of the sash is borne by bogies in the top track and guided by bottom rail (guide), on which the roller travels. This is a more stable solution and for this reason is used in the construction of terraces, pergolas or sliding walls.

What is the principle behind the sliding system for patio doors?

The sliding system consists of two basic components:

Top railin which the bogies move. These bogies take the weight of the sash, ensuring that it moves smoothly.
U-shaped bottom rail or guide roller, which stabilises the movement of the sash, preventing it from tilting and ensuring even movement when opening or closing.

The development sash is suspended on carriages and guided by a bottom roller, allowing the panel to move easily and smoothly from side to side. Sliding system gives you full control over the movement of the wings and provides great comfort.

The use of sliding systems - it's not just the look that counts

Sliding systems are used in many places:

in the side development of terraces and pergolas,
in partition walls (e.g. in offices and homes),
in doors and interior panels,
in garden structures and gazebos.

Such versatility makes sliding systems ideal for those looking for a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to enclose a terrace or create extra space in the garden.

Does a sliding system work on a terrace?

Yes - especially in combination with movable patio blinds. Thanks to it:

you can shield the terrace from wind, rain and dust,
you have the possibility to adjust the light and air supply,
you do not lose any space because the wings slide along the structure,
you also use the terrace outside the summer season.

What are the sliding system solutions for the terrace?

When deciding on the method of installation, consider what you want from a sliding fitting:

Sliding sash in its width
- The panel works like a door - it only slides to its own width,
- there is no bottom rail in the passage, so you pass freely,
- works well in smaller buildings.
Sliding panels along the entire length of the terrace
- The sashes slide along a track mounted in the floor,
- you can push back several panels at once, opening up more space,
- a solution recommended for large terraces and pergolas.

Why it's worth it: the advantages of sliding doors on the terrace

Installing a sliding system on a terrace is an investment with many benefits. The space becomes more functional and comfortable. You gain full control over when to open or close the terrace. You can adapt the space to the weather conditions, the time of day and your needs.

On colder days, simply close the panels to protect against wind and rain. In summer, you can easily open up the terrace to let in natural light and fresh air. The sliding system gives protection against unpredictable weather. Stable construction protects against wind, rain and dust, providing comfortable outdoor relaxation all year round.

Sliding system saves space. Unlike traditional doors, which need space to open, the system slides along the structure. This gives you more space on the terrace, ideal for relaxing or socialising.

Installation of a sliding system gives you complete flexibility. On colder days, you can easily create a more enclosed space by moving the panels. In summer, you'll open up the terrace to its full width, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. It's a solution that adapts the space to your needs all year round.

Disadvantages of the sliding door system:

Smaller opening width. In a sliding system, the sashes slide along the wall, which limits the full opening of the space. In contrast to folding buildingswhich allows the entire development to be 'folded' to one side, the sliding opening system does not offer such freedom. Although it can slide to great lengths, there is always a part of the built-in structure that remains closed, which can restrict the view or access to the terrace.
Stability. Sliding systems fixed only from the top can be less stable, which can lead to them leaning sideways, especially with larger panels. This is one of the reasons why systems are recommended top-downwhere the weight of the wing is better distributed.
Assembly requirements. The installation of a sliding system requires precise positioning of the rails and carriages. Incorrectly positioned rails can affect the smoothness of sliding, as well as the stability of the entire installation. This can be a challenge if the user does not use professional help.

Why choose the OpenUp sliding system for patio blinds?

OpenUp sliding system is a solution proven in dozens of our implementations. We have tested it for durability and user comfort, so we know that:

is stable and durable,
works with both aluminium and wood fins,
allows even heavier sashes to move smoothly,
ensures aesthetically pleasing installation and convenient operation.

Choosing a solution compatible with OpenUp system blinds, you have the assurance that you are getting a system that has been perfected, tested and recommended by practitioners. See how to prepare a sliding door using our system: sliding door system, assembly instructions.