Types of Sliding & Hinged Doors: Best Uses & Designs (2026)

Dora
Nov 24, 2025
2 min read

Introduction
Sliding Doors & Windows
Hinged Doors & Windows
Comparison Table: Sliding vs Hinged
Did You Know?
FAQ
Conclusion
📞 Need Partition or Window Installation Services in KL & Selangor?

Aluminium sliding door installed in a modern home in Kuala Lumpur

Introduction

Understanding Door and Window Mechanisms

Sliding and hinged doors/windows are two of the most popular choices in Malaysia for both residential and commercial buildings. Each type has unique motion mechanics, opening directions, and use case scenarios that can impact airflow, lighting, and overall space management.

Sliding Doors & Windows

Motion Type

Sliding doors/windows operate on tracks, gliding horizontally for a smooth open-close mechanism.

Opening Direction

👉 Left-to-right or right-to-left

👉 Parallel sliding

Double-panel sliding window in a Selangor high-rise apartment

👉 Stacking panels (multi-track)

Outdoor view through hinged aluminium window in Shah Alam

Best Use Cases

Partition with aluminium sliding doors for home office in Petaling Jaya

🚿 Bathrooms in condos
🪟 Balcony or patio doors in KL homes
🏢 Commercial shopfronts

Hinged Doors & Windows

Motion Type

These open by swinging inwards or outwards via hinges fixed on the frame.

Opening Direction

🔄 Inward swing

🔁 Outward swing

🔐 Dual-action (especially for doors)

Best Use Cases

🚪 Main entrance doors with front door grill
🛏 Bedroom windows for ventilation
🏫 Classroom doors for fire safety

Comparison Table: Sliding vs Hinged

Feature	Sliding	Hinged
Motion Type	Horizontal glide	Swing via hinge
Space Efficiency	High (no swing area)	Requires clearance
Ventilation Control	Partial	Full open possible
Maintenance	Low	Moderate

Did You Know?

Sliding windows are often preferred in KL apartments because they don’t take up space when open — perfect for high-rise living!

FAQ

Q: Which is more durable – sliding or hinged?

A: Aluminium sliding windows offer excellent durability and corrosion resistance, especially in Malaysian weather.

Q: Can I install sliding windows for bathrooms?

A: Yes, especially frosted glass sliding windows with aluminium frames are popular in Malaysian bathrooms.

Q: Are hinged doors secure for the main entrance?

A: Yes, when paired with a solid lock system and a front door grill.

Conclusion

Both sliding and hinged doors/windows offer unique advantages. Consider the space, ventilation needs, and aesthetics of your home or office when choosing. For most Malaysian homes, combining both styles often yields the best results.