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“We have seen demand from manufacturers producing
larger, multi-three and -four panel configurations, as homeowners want more outside-in viewing and entertaining,”
reports Mikron’s Anton.
“We are doing a lot more testing of larger sizes,” adds
Deceuninck’s Hausberg, pointing to 8 x 8 foot two panel
models and 12 foot wide x 8 foot high three-panel doors
and impact products.
“What we are seeing is that more access to the out-
doors is important to people,” says Spears. “So, homes,
whether new built or in renovation mode, are adding in
more patio doors than in the past. People want access
from a kitchen to a deck; from a home office to the out-
side; from a bedroom to a balcony, etc.”
Spears, like most of these executives, does not see the
bi-fold and lift-slide systems gaining traction in the market
yet, however.
“These types of applications are very custom and re-
quire an architect to be able to retrofit or design into new
construction,” says Hausberg. “ In the current economy,
it would be hard for the average door manufacturers to
justify the costs of getting into this specialty market. This
will remain in the specialty shops for some time.”
Royal’s DeFelice suggests lift-and-slide and bi-fold
doors are “beginning to make some rumblings” in the
vinyl patio door market, however. He sees them moving
into more high-end home and custom projects, but, he
adds, their high cost makes it unlikely they will replace
traditional sliding patio doors in most new construction
and small renovation applications.
“Our dealers haven’t been pressing for it, but we’re
looking to expand into new markets for us, like Florida,”
reports Soft-Lite’s Irving. “There people expect the larger
openings and I think the lift-and-slides and bi-folds will
become a bigger factor in the vinyl door market.” w
