How big will opening glass walls get?

The past two weeks, I’ve been talking to hardware suppliers. One trend we’ve talked about is the apparent explosion in wide-opening sliding and folding door systems. More manufacturers are offering these products—I think I counted at least 30 at the recent Builders’ Show—so presumably demand is growing.

Wide-opening door systems will be: Limited to ultra-high end custom homes. Limited to upscale homes. Common on even mid-range homes. Adapted and made affordable for most homes. If poll form doesn't work in your email, Click Here.

There’s no denying the appeal of a large expanse connecting the interior of a home to the back yard and the great outdoors. The question I keep asking—and no one seems to know the answer to this is—how far down market can this trend go in the residential market?

That’s our poll question of the week. And I’d like to hear your thoughts on these products too. I’d especially like to hear from those dealers or manufacturers out there that don’t focus on beachfront homes in Florida or ski lodges in Aspen. Do see a future for these products in your neck of the woods?  Do you want to add these doors to your line?  Email me and let me know.

Contact John G. Swanson, editor & associate publisher, at john@glass.org.

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