The thickness of an aluminum door plays a key role in its durability, security, insulation, and overall performance.
Aluminum door frames are already very important elements in contemporary homes and buildings. However, have you ever wondered if thickness really makes a difference? Sometimes it goes beyond simple aesthetics.
The answer is a resounding yes. The thickness of an aluminum frame is an important part, as it directly impacts its strength, insulation capacity and overall performance, although lately it also goes hand in hand with aesthetics.
Thicker aluminum doors are stronger and more resistant to dents, bends, and damage. This is especially crucial for exterior doors exposed to weather conditions or high traffic areas.
In this article we are going to tell you all about the thickness of an aluminum door and all the aspects to consider for your project.
What is The Thickness of An Aluminum Door Frame? It All Depends on the Product
Aluminum door frames come in different thicknesses, adapted to different types of doors and their specific uses. This thickness does not only impact the design, as it’s important for construction and architecture.
The Thickness Depends Mostly on the Type of Aluminum Door Chosen for Each Project. Here Are Some Examples:
- Folding doors: These doors usually require thinner frames, between 30 mm. and 40 mm., ideal for residential or light commercial uses where a heavy structure is not needed.
- Entrance doors: For increased security and better insulation, 40 mm. to 50 mm. frames are best suited in this case.
- Sliding doors: Due to frequent use and the need for smooth movement, 40 mm. to 50 mm. frames are usually the best choice.
Complying with local regulations and industry standards not only ensures better performance, but also guarantees energy efficiency and long-term durability. Choosing the right thickness is key to the functionality and longevity of your doors, which is why professionals should advise you on the construction, design and installation of aluminum doors.
The optimal thickness can depend on the intended use, climate, and security needs. For example, residential doors may have different thickness requirements compared to industrial or commercial ones.
What Factors Influence the Thickness of An Aluminum Door?
The thickness of an aluminum door frame is an important choice; it depends on several elements ranging from the type of door to environmental conditions and the specific needs of the user. Here we break down the key factors:
Door Type
As we mentioned above, the type of door is the most important factor in determining the thickness of the frame chosen. Some products have factory construction, but this is up to the professional(s) in charge of the project to decide.
- Folding doors: Due to their lightweight and compact design, they tend to work well with thinner frames, making them easier to fold and move.
- Entry doors: To ensure greater security and soundproofing, it’s advisable to use sturdier and thicker frames.
- Garage doors: They require thicker frames to support their weight and guarantee stability, especially in large structures.
- Sliding doors: The sliding mechanism requires a medium-thickness frame that balances durability with frequent use.
- Swing doors: Like entry doors, these doors need strong frames that will withstand daily use and offer additional stability.
Environmental Exposure
Climate is a determining factor. If the frame is exposed to extreme conditions such as heavy rain, high winds or extreme temperatures, opting for a thicker frame is essential to ensure longevity and structural support.
Safety and Soundproofing Requirements
In several projects, one of the important quality requirements is the security the aluminum door can provide against various problems and soundproofing.
- Security: Doors such as entrance or garage doors, which are often key access points, benefit from thicker frames capable of resisting intrusion attempts.
- Soundproofing: A thicker frame also helps block noise, making it an excellent choice for homes or offices located in areas with high traffic or ambient noise.
What Factors Should We Consider When Choosing the Thickness of An Aluminum Door?
When choosing the thickness of an aluminum door frame, it is critical to consider several factors to ensure functionality, aesthetics and cost. Application and location are key, as interior frames tend to be thinner because they are not exposed to the weather, while exterior frames require greater thicknesses to withstand the elements and provide durability.
For specialized doors, such as patio doors or storefronts, sturdier frames are a must because of the need to support large panes of glass or meet stringent security standards.
Aesthetic design also plays a role, as thin frames are ideal for modern and minimalist styles, while thicker frames add sturdiness and an industrial touch, as well as being perfect for large or heavy doors.
Energy efficiency is another important aspect, especially in regions with extreme climates. Thicker frames with thermal brakes reduce heat transfer, better regulate temperature and lower energy costs.
In addition, thickness affects sound insulation. In noisy areas, such as busy streets or urban areas, a thicker frame combined with a solid door can offer greater sound insulation, providing a quieter environment.
However, budget is undoubtedly one of the most important aspects, as thicker frames tend to be more expensive due to the materials and manufacturing processes involved. It is essential to find a balance between cost, durability and specific needs.
The important thing is to approach professionals and evaluate all the necessary conditions to choose the best option.
Comparing Thin and Thick Aluminum Door Frames
When it comes to choosing an aluminum door frame, deciding between thin and thick profiles can make a big difference depending on your specific needs. Both styles have unique advantages that make them ideal for different contexts.
Thin frames feature a modern, minimalist design, ideal for those seeking a sleek, contemporary aesthetic. These frames allow for a larger glass area, maximizing natural light and providing a clean look, especially appreciated in modern homes and sophisticated commercial spaces.
They’re also an economical choice, as they tend to be less expensive and work well in low-impact areas, such as interior doors or spaces with less traffic. Their lightness and simplicity make them an affordable solution for those who prioritize style over sturdiness.
On the other hand, thick frames offer superior strength, making them ideal for doors that need to withstand heavy use or adverse conditions. These profiles are designed to resist impacts, deformations and external forces, making them the perfect choice for exterior doors exposed to extreme climates or high traffic.
In addition, their robustness allows the incorporation of advanced locking systems, offering greater security against theft and better protection against the elements. If security, durability and strength are priorities, thick frames are the right choice.
Ultimately, the choice between thin and thick frames depends on the specific needs of your space. While thin frames offer style and affordability, thick frames ensure safety and strength. Analyzing your environment, intended use and functional priorities will help you make the best decision.
Aluminum Doors by PRL Glass: The Efficient and Safe Option
PRL’s aluminum storefront doors are about 1.75” overall thicknesses. They are stronger, yet lightweight, having a wall thickness of about 1/8”.
PRL’s bi-fold doors have become popular for both residential and commercial spaces due to their versatile design and functionality. Bi-fold doors are great for small spaces or areas where you want to maximize floor space.
When fully opened, bi-fold doors create a large, open area, making them perfect for connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. PRL makes bi-fold doors in various configurations, from two to several panels, allowing you to customize the number of folds and how much of the opening you want to open at once. Glass frame doors can be custom designed to suit specific architectural needs. You can choose the glass type, frame material, and color to fit your space’s style and functionality.
✅ Frameless glass entrance doors vary between ½” to ¾”. And framed doors are1.75” to 2” thick.
PRL’s framed glass doors are a popular and stylish option for many interior and exterior applications. Framed glass doors come in a wide variety of styles and configurations. These doors typically feature a combination of glass panels with patch fittings and bottom and top rails. PRL carries 4 different styles of doors: A, F, P and BP.
One of the biggest benefits of glass doors is their ability to bring in a lot of natural light. This is especially valuable in spaces that might feel dark or cramped. Clear glass doors offer full visibility, making it great for creating connections between spaces.
