Know Your Windows & Doors: Making the Right Choice for Your Home

When homeowners start planning a renovation or building project, one of the first questions they ask is:

“What’s the difference between all these window and door styles?”

At Formalux, we hear it every day.

In fact, one of the most common examples is customers asking for a French door, only to discover they actually mean a door with decorative glazing bars (those classic crossed lines through the glass).

While Formalux can absolutely create that look, it’s often a much more specialised and expensive solution than people expect.

That’s why understanding the different window and door styles before you start can save time, money and frustration.

Choosing the right system isn’t just about appearance. It’s about functionality, ventilation, comfort, energy efficiency and how you want to live in your home every day.

Let’s break down some of the most popular options available from Formalux.

What Is a French Door?

Let’s start with the most misunderstood one.

A French door is actually defined by how it opens, not by what the glass looks like.

Traditionally, French doors consist of two hinged doors that open from the centre, creating a wide opening without a fixed centre post.

Characteristics include:

• Double door opening
• Wide access to outdoor areas
• Elegant, traditional appearance
• Excellent indoor-outdoor flow

Historically, French doors originated in 17th-century France, where architects wanted to maximise natural light by replacing solid doors with glass panels.

The crossed lines many people associate with French doors are called glazing bars or colonial bars. These are decorative elements and can be added to various window and door systems, not just French doors.

Sliding Doors

Best For:

• Alfresco areas
• Patios
• Entertaining areas
• Homes with limited space

Sliding doors operate by moving horizontally along a track.

Because they don’t swing inward or outward, they are ideal when space is limited.

Benefits:

• Smooth operation
• Clean modern look
• Excellent natural light
• Space-efficient design

Formalux sliding doors combine large glazed areas with double glazing and uPVC frames, delivering impressive thermal and acoustic performance.

Smart slide / LIFT & Slide Doors

Best For:

• Energy-efficient homes
• High-performance builds
• Homeowners wanting superior sealing

A smart slide door operates by sliding smoothly along its track using a concealed roller system. When closed, the door engages the perimeter seals to provide a secure, weather-resistant seal, helping prevent air and water infiltration while improving insulation and comfort.

A lift-and-slide door is especially useful for large openings & areas with extreme windloads. It operates by lifting the door panel slightly off its seals when the handle is turned, allowing it to glide smoothly along the track with minimal effort. When closed, the panel drops back down, engaging the seals around the frame to create a tight, weather-resistant seal against air, water, and noise.

Benefits:

• Better airtightness
• Improved insulation
• Controlled ventilation
• Excellent weather sealing

These systems are increasingly popular among homeowners who prioritise comfort and energy efficiency.

Casement Windows

Best For:

• Bedrooms
• Living rooms
• Home offices

Casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward like a door.

They’re one of the most popular window styles because they can catch and direct breezes into the home.

Benefits:

• Excellent ventilation
• Strong weather seal
• Clear, uninterrupted views
• Easy operation

When paired with Formalux’s Low-E double glazing, casement windows offer excellent year-round comfort.

Awning Windows

Best For:

• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Laundry areas

Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom.

One of their greatest advantages is that they can often remain partially open during light rain.

Benefits:

• Ventilation during wet weather
• Increased privacy
• Compact design
• Great energy efficiency

They’re particularly popular where airflow is important but wall space is limited.

Tilt & Turn Windows

Best For:

• Premium homes
• Family homes
• Allergy sufferers
• Homes focused on ventilation

Tilt & Turn windows are one of the most versatile window systems available.

They have two opening modes:

Tilt Mode: The top tilts inward for controlled ventilation.

Turn Mode: The entire sash swings inward like a door.

Benefits:

• Superior ventilation control
• Easy cleaning
• Excellent airtightness
• Outstanding energy performance

These are particularly popular in Europe and are becoming increasingly sought-after across Perth.

Fixed Windows

Best For:

• Feature walls
• Living areas
• Stairwells
• Maximising views

Fixed windows do not open.

Their purpose is simple: To frame a view and maximise natural light.

Benefits:

• Large expanses of glass
• Excellent thermal efficiency
• Minimal maintenance
• Strong architectural impact

When combined with double glazing, fixed windows can create stunning feature spaces without compromising comfort.

Shaped Windows

Best For:

• Architectural homes
• Heritage-inspired projects
• Feature designs

Shaped windows are custom manufactured in non-standard forms such as:

• Arched windows
• Circular windows
• Triangular windows
• Gable-end windows

They add character and uniqueness while maintaining the same thermal and acoustic performance as standard window systems.

The Importance of Double Glazing Regardless of Style

While choosing the right style is important, the biggest performance difference often comes from what’s inside the window.

At Formalux, all systems are available with:

Low-E Glass

Helps reduce heat transfer while allowing natural light into the home.

Double Glazing

Improves insulation and acoustic performance.

uPVC Frames

Provide significantly better thermal efficiency than traditional aluminium frames.

Together, this combination helps:

• Keep homes cooler in summer
• Retain warmth in winter
• Reduce outside noise
• Minimise energy costs
• Improve overall comfort

So Which Style Is Right for You?

The best answer depends on how you use the space.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want maximum ventilation?
• Is natural light the priority?
• Do I need better indoor-outdoor flow?
• Is thermal performance important?
• Do I want a traditional or contemporary look?

A well-designed home often uses a combination of styles rather than relying on a single solution.

FAQs

What is the difference between a French door and a sliding door?

French doors are hinged and open from the centre, while sliding doors move horizontally along a track.

Why are French doors called French doors?

French doors originated in France during the 17th century and were designed to maximise natural light through large glass panels.

Are the crossed lines on a French door necessary?

No. The crossed lines are decorative glazing bars and can be added to many different window and door styles.

What is the most energy-efficient window style?

When combined with double glazing and uPVC frames, Tilt & Turn and fixed windows are typically among the highest-performing options.

Are sliding doors energy efficient?

Yes. Modern double glazed sliding doors with uPVC frames provide significantly better insulation than older aluminium systems.

What are Tilt & Turn windows?

Tilt & Turn windows offer two opening functions: a tilt position for controlled ventilation and a full inward opening for maximum airflow.

Are uPVC windows better than aluminium windows?

uPVC frames provide superior thermal insulation and help reduce heat transfer, making them more energy efficient than traditional aluminium frames.

Make an Informed Choice

Windows and doors are some of the hardest-working elements in your home.

They provide light, ventilation, comfort, security and energy efficiency every day.

By understanding the difference between styles and choosing a system that suits your lifestyle, you’ll end up with a home that’s not only beautiful, but significantly more comfortable.Talk to Formalux today about the full range of double glazed windows and doors with premium uPVC frames, and let us help you choose the right solution for your home.