Picking between vinyl and aluminum impact sliding doors for your Southwest Florida home involves considering several factors. Determining factors include their durability, energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, costs, and how the doors will look on your house once installed. Both door frame materials have pros and cons. And both are suited to the specific needs of Florida’s climate, so it really boils down to your personal preference.
So which would be the best door for your home? Let’s find out!
The Pros and Cons: Vinyl vs. Aluminum Sliding Doors
The pros? Vinyl impact sliding doors offer thermal insulation, helping to keep homes cooler in Florida’s sweltering climate and leading to lower energy bills. They are also corrosion-resistant, easy to clean with simple soap and water, require minimal maintenance, and are more affordable for budget-conscious homeowners.
The cons? Vinyl impact sliding doors, while strong, aren’t as strong as aluminum (especially for cheaper doors). Also, if you buy low-quality vinyl doors the Florida temperatures and moisture can cause them to warp or crack over time.
The Pros and Cons: Aluminum vs. Vinyl
The pros? Aluminum impact sliding doors are super strong and durable, capable of withstanding high winds and moisture changes. Aluminum frames are lightweight, making them easy to open and close. And their sleek design, large glass panels, and color options make them favorites for Florida homeowners. Lastly, aluminum is resistant to bugs and decay (unlike wood frames).
The cons? Aluminum impact sliding doors may be more expensive than vinyl doors as the cost reflects their durability and strength. Also, aluminum has natural thermal breaks, making them less insulated and energy efficient vs vinyl.
Strength, Longevity, and Maintenance
The impact resistant rating you need will depend on where you live in Florida. For instance, if you are buying a sliding door for a coastal home and/or one in a HVHZ will have different requirements vs a home that is not. Luckily, you can find both aluminum and vinyl impact sliding doors that are highly rated to withstand hurricanes and severe weather conditions. For example, you can source both vinyl and aluminum doors approved for use in a HVHZ.
In terms of longevity and maintenance there is no wrong choice. Both aluminum and vinyl impact sliding doors can last up to 30 years or longer, depending on weather changes, wear and tear, and routine maintenance. Routine care involves things like cleaning with soap and water, or potentially replacing parts many years down the road. Scratches and dents can typically be repaired without replacing panels or the entire door.
Aluminum doors are powder coated with a strong, durable coating that lasts for many years. However, the finish may oxidize or need to be refreshed at some point. Lower quality vinyl sliding doors may discolor over time. For both of these you will want to ensure that you buy quality hurricane protection products that are built with high quality materials and finishes.
The Aesthetic Appeal
Vinyl and aluminum hurricane impact doors offer unique aesthetic appeals to Florida homes. Your preferred look will depend on your own preferences and tastes.
Vinyl is versatile and contrary to popular belief it does come in various colors, not just white. Although custom colors and “looks” will cost more, they do offer design options outside of traditional white vinyl. For instance, vinyl frames can be customized to have woodgrain patterns to mimic the look of natural wood or have different colors, such as black.
Aluminum is sleek and modern, some times with thinner frames and larger glass panels, perfect for panoramic views of the outdoors. Aluminum is powder-coated in a selection of colors, including dark bronze. This type of coating is very durable and will last for many, many years.
In Conclusion: Vinyl vs. Aluminum Impact Sliding Doors
The best choice of sliding glass door for your Southwest Florida home will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and finances (your budget). It may help if you didn’t have to break the bank to protect your home from Florida weather, so consider your budget when choosing between vinyl or aluminum impact sliding doors. Both are durable, strong, and worth the investment in their own ways.
Contact Eurex Shutters to learn more about our line of vinyl and aluminum impact sliding doors. With 38+ years of expertise and experience, we specialize in products that withstand Florida’s extreme weather while ensuring client satisfaction.
Or call (239) 369-8600 for immediate service.
