Fixed screens vs sliding aluminium internal doors: A comparison guide

• 18 February 2026|
• News

When planning a home renovation in Hertfordshire, Essex, or North London, how you choose to divide your living space defines the flow and feel of the entire home.

Modern interior design has moved away from heavy, solid partitions in favour of innovative solutions that prioritise flow and brightness.

At E&A Windows, we have seen a significant increase in homeowners moving away from traditional wooden doors within the home. Instead, they are opting for the sleek, industrial aesthetic of aluminium internal doors.

But once you have decided on the material, the next big question arises: should you choose a fixed screen or a sliding door?

This guide compares these two popular configurations to help you find the best fit for your layout and lifestyle.

The appeal of aluminium doors and screens

The primary reason homeowners are swapping out timber for internal aluminium is the desire for natural light. Traditional wooden doors can make hallways and middle rooms feel boxy and dim.

Aluminium, however, possesses an inherent strength that allows for incredibly slim frames. Because the frames are so narrow, you can incorporate much larger panes of glass. This creates a “broken-plan” living arrangement – you maintain the acoustic separation and defined zones of a room while keeping a visual connection to the rest of the house.

Whether you are looking at single doors, double doors, or vast screens, aluminium provides a minimalist design that timber or uPVC simply cannot match.

The heritage trend: From external to internal

The “Heritage” look is one of the most sought-after trends in the South East. Originally inspired by industrial steel doors, this aesthetic features black frames with horizontal and vertical glazing bars.

While this look was once reserved for front doors or French doors leading to the garden, it has now firmly moved inside. Homeowners are using heritage aluminium internal doors to partition home offices, pantries, and even en-suite bathrooms.

It provides a timeless, high-end feel that works equally well in a Victorian terrace or a modern new-build.

With many modern homes boasting an open plan layout, homeowners are finding this single room living can have drawbacks in terms of heating, noise and cooking smells and are looking for ways to partition their space.

Fixed screens vs. sliding doors: Which is right for you?

Fixed aluminium screens

A fixed screen is a non-opening glazed partition. It is a permanent architectural feature designed to divide a large living space without blocking sightlines.

• Best for: Creating a foyer, sectioning off a staircase, or acting as a “window” between a dark kitchen and a bright dining area.
• The benefit: Because there are no moving parts, fixed screens can be even slimmer than doors. They require zero clearance space, making them ideal for tight corners where a door swing would be obstructed.
• Aesthetic: They offer a completely clean, symmetrical look that serves as a permanent design statement.

Sliding aluminium internal doors

Sliding doors consist of glazed panels that glide horizontally along a track, either overlapping each other or disappearing into a “pocket” in the wall.

• Best for: Rooms that need to serve multiple purposes. For example, an office that needs to be closed off for quiet working or studying, but opened up when entertaining guests.
• The benefit: They are the ultimate space-savers. Unlike French doors or standard single doors, they do not require any floor space to open.
• Functionality: They allow you to physically open up your floor plan in seconds, providing a versatility that fixed screens cannot offer.

Why choose aluminium over other materials?

When choosing your internal doors, you might also consider steel doors or timber. However, aluminium remains the “sweet spot” for several reasons:

1. Low maintenance: Unlike timber, aluminium will not warp, twist, or rot. It is resistant to temperature changes – crucial in homes with underfloor heating where wood might shrink or expand.
2. Weight: Aluminium is significantly lighter than steel, making double doors and large sliders much easier to operate on a daily basis.
3. Durability: The powder coating on an aluminium door is incredibly tough. It won’t chip or peel, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to stay looking new.
4. Sustainability: Aluminium is a highly sustainable material that can be recycled indefinitely, making it a responsible choice for the eco-conscious homeowner.

Aren’t aluminium doors cold?

In an internal setting, heat transfer is less of a concern than with external front doors. However, aluminium remains stable during temperature changes within the home. Because they aren’t exposed to harsh environmental conditions, they don’t require the same thermal breaks as external doors, keeping the frames even slimmer.

Is the glass safe for homes with children?

Absolutely. We use high-quality safety glass (toughened or laminated) as standard. This glass is significantly stronger than standard window glass and, in the unlikely event it does break, it shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards.

Customisation and design options

At E&A Windows, we believe your home should be unique. Our aluminium internal doors come with a vast range of design options:

• Colour Palettes: While Matt Black is the standard for the heritage look, we can provide frames in any RAL colour to match your interior styling.
• Glazing Bars: You can choose the number of “light” panes. More bars create a more traditional industrial look, while fewer bars lean toward a modern, minimalist design.
• Glass Types: For home offices or bathrooms, you can opt for reeded or frosted safety glass. This allows natural light to flow through while providing the privacy you need.
• Hardware: From contemporary pull handles to traditional levers, the hardware is the finishing touch that ties the room together.

How long does installation take?

Most internal screens or single doors can be installed in just one day. Larger configurations, such as a four-panel sliding system or a full-height room divider, may take two days to ensure the tracks and alignment are perfect.

Start Your home transformation

Whether you want the permanent architectural elegance of a fixed screen or the space-saving versatility of sliding aluminium internal doors, E&A Windows has the expertise to bring your vision to life. With thousands of successful installations across Hertfordshire and Essex, we are the region’s trusted name for quality and innovation.

Get in touch with our skilled team today for a free consultation:

• Freephone: 0800 2465115
• Radlett: 01923 964000
• St Albans: 01727 222522
• Email:hello@eandawindows.co.uk
• Online: Contact E&A Windows

Let us help you create a brighter, more versatile living space.