When to Use a Guide Channel with Sliding and Folding Door Systems

At P C Henderson, most of our top hung, internal sliding and folding door systems have been designed without the need for a guide channel, allowing for a seamless walkway between rooms. However, there are instances where we would recommend installing a guide channel into certain applications. This blog explains the benefits a guide channel can bring to sliding and folding door systems, as well as when you should include one in your specification.

What is a Guide Channel?

A guide channel is a track length for sliding and folding door systems which is typically installed on the floor or routed into the bottom of the door. The guide channel works with an associated guide to help direct the door upon opening and closing – preventing sideways deflection.

When Should I Use a Guide Channel?

1. For Wide Sliding Doors

For large sliding doors over 1500mm wide, we would recommend installing a guide channel. The wider the door, the more prone it is to side-to-side movement as there is less surface area of the door in contact with the guide.

2. For Multiple Sliding Panels

For sliding systems which include multiple doors bypassing, a guide channel ensures that each panel follows its correct path – preventing the doors from clashing or derailing.

3. For Large Folding Door Configurations

When installing a folding door system whereby more than 4 doors fold to one side of the opening, we recommend installing a guide channel. The more doors added to a folding system increases the weight load held by the pivot door. This may cause the end door to drop and drag across the floor when opening or closing if not installed with a guide channel. Installing a guide channel when installing more than 4 folding doors aligns the bottom of each panel to ensure the doors move in a straight line to avoid jamming or dragging.

4. For External Sliding & Folding Door Systems

When installing external sliding and folding door systems, we typically recommend that you use a guide channel. External doors are exposed to elements such as wind and rain. A guide channel helps seal the gaps between the door and the threshold, support drainage and prevent the doors from rattling in strong winds. Guide channels are also preferred as they enhance security – making it harder to tamper with the system.

Our Solution

At P C Henderson, we offer a range of guide channel solutions as an optional accessory for our sliding and folding door systems. The latest addition to our range is our 95 guide channel. Made from anodised aluminium, the guide channel has been designed with a lipped profile to provide an aesthetic appearance once installed by concealing the routing detail in the floor or door. The new guide channel should be installed with our 106/95 stainless steel guide for effortless operation.

Please contact our customer service team if you require advice on whether your sliding system requires a guide channel.