I couldn't tick one or the other of the boxes – I think the choice has to be made contingent on so many variables. In fact we have painted timber, double-glazed bifolds (with a fabulous retractable pleated fly-screen) at the end of the dining room leading out onto a terrace and a painted timber, double-glazed slider (with a timber-framed sliding fly-screen) on the other side of the kitchen (but on the same axis) opening onto a raised timber deck. Each works really well in terms of function and aesthetics but they would not be interchangeable as the different locations determined which was more suitable – but they have been made by the same highly skilled window craftsman and have given us nothing but pleasure. And on a hot, steamy evening with both open we have the most wonderful cross ventilation.

I don't have stacker doors, I am too far south and want an airtight seal. We are doing Binq slider which are 2400 high and around 4 mtr long - only opening one side. I can have it open to the middle or the kitchen though. And we will have a large window where the living room is as I want a cosy winter nook. But of course our living window can open for breeze too and will be about 2mtr wide at least. From what you guys are saying opening to the middle of the extension is preferable! I guess as I am the cook standing about I was thinking of myself with a pleasant breeze blowing around me as I stir my pot. ;-)

check with your local window manufacturers as we considered a hinged external glass door with an integral double hung window with a separate full height security fly screen door....the cost was expected to be about $3000 but would have been ideal in a small area needing external access and ventilation...for various reasons we decided on an alternate arrangement but our window manufacturers were quite happy to make the door to suit...where do you live and what's on the outside of the door and why do they say it's not possible and you did say that you were happy to have a whole new door made??

Having a Balcony off a Bedroom can make the room feel larger, and it's a bonus when there is a nice view! However, functionally and space can have an impact on choosing the "right door". Which is why our aluminium doors have been designed to help you create a stylish and modern look, whilst balancing between practicality and style. With standard and designer configurations available, our range of doors has got you covered. Which type of door would you love to open, and step out onto your balcony? Option 1 - Sliding Door Option 2 - Hinged Door