904-822-1078
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What makes Gladiator Bi-Fold Doors different from competitors?
BETTER QUALITY
At Gladiator Window & Doors, we engineer our bi-fold doors to a completely different standard than the big-box alternatives you’ll find at retailers like Home Depot or Lowe’s.
Our doors are constructed using 6063-T5 heavy-duty aluminum alloy with a thickness of 1.8mm, compared to the 1.2mm–1.4mm flimsy frames typically used by mass-market brands.
Unlike lower-end products, our Gladiator Bi-Fold Doors are hurricane-tested for extreme conditions, boasting wind load resistance of up to 4500 Pa—over 5x stronger than standard doors.
Additionally, we offer advanced thermal break technology, SUS304 stainless steel tracks, and impact-resistant double-tempered glass filled with argon gas for superior energy efficiency and security.
Key differences include:
- Wind Load Resistance of up to 4500 Pa, 5x higher than standard doors.
- Thermal break technology for energy efficiency.
- Double-tempered, argon gas-filled glazing for maximum insulation and strength.
- SUS304 stainless steel tracks for smooth operation and rust prevention.
- Industry-leading warranty compared to the 1–5 year limited warranties common with cheaper brands.
For more details, visit our full Bi-Fold Door collection here:👉 Gladiator Window and Doors
2. How are Gladiator Sliding Glass Doors built to withstand hurricanes?
UPGRADE MIAMI DADE DOORS
Our Sliding Glass Doors are specifically engineered for extreme environments, including hurricane-prone regions.
Each door is tested for wind load resistance up to 4500 Pa, compared to the industry standard of just 800 Pa.
Additional hurricane-ready features include:
- Heavy-duty aluminum frames that resist warping under pressure.
- Three-layer weather-sealing system with hidden drainage to prevent water infiltration.
- Impact-resistant double-tempered glass to protect against flying debris.
For Miami-Dade hurricane ratings and more hurricane door details, visit:👉 Hurricane-Rated Doors
3. What is the wind load resistance rating of Gladiator Doors?
STRONGER DOORS
Gladiator Bi-Fold and Sliding Doors are built to endure the harshest conditions, with a certified Wind Load Resistance of 4500 Pa (4.5 kPa).
This rating means our doors are over 5x stronger than many standard doors on the market, which are often rated for only 800 Pa.
This level of performance ensures superior protection against hurricanes, tornadoes, and high-wind storms, safeguarding your home and investment.
Learn more about our extreme durability here:👉 Gladiator Sliding Glass Doors
Why is a 4500 Pa wind load rating important for folding and sliding doors?
BUILT BETTER
A 4500 Pa rating ensures that doors can handle sustained wind speeds commonly found in hurricanes (including Category 4 and 5 storms) without compromising their structural integrity.
Lower-rated doors might buckle, leak, or even fail during storms, risking costly property damage and safety hazards.
Gladiator doors offer peace of mind by delivering superior strength, airtight sealing, and structural stability, making them ideal for coastal homes and areas vulnerable to extreme weather.
5. Are Gladiator Bi-Fold Doors energy-efficient?
WE SAVE YOU MONEY
Absolutely. Our Bi-Fold Doors incorporate advanced thermal break technology to dramatically improve energy efficiency.
Key energy-saving features include:
- Double-tempered glass units with argon gas fill to minimize heat transfer.
- Thermal insulation value of Uw: 2.3 W/m².K, keeping interiors comfortable year-round.
- Three-layer weather seals to eliminate air leaks and drafts.
This technology helps lower energy bills while maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, whether you're battling summer heat or winter chills.
6. How does the argon gas-filled glass improve energy efficiency?
EFFICIENCY
Argon gas is six times denser than air, making it an excellent insulator between panes of double-tempered glass.
By filling the space between glass layers with argon gas, we significantly reduce heat transfer, leading to:
- Lower heating and cooling costs.
- Enhanced indoor comfort.
- Reduced condensation buildup on glass surfaces.
This technology is standard across our sliding and bi-fold door models to ensure maximum thermal efficiency and energy savings.
7. Why is 6063-T5 aluminum alloy superior for door construction?
cONSTRUCTION
6063-T5 aluminum alloy offers an ideal balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and aesthetic appeal.Unlike softer or thinner aluminum grades, 6063-T5 is:
- Highly resistant to rust and corrosion, even in coastal environments.
- Strong enough to support larger panels without bending or sagging.
- Easily powder-coated for a sleek, durable finish.
This material choice ensures that Gladiator doors maintain their appearance and functionality for decades, even under the toughest conditions.
8. How effective are Gladiator doors at blocking sound?
can you hear that ?? nope
Our doors provide up to 30 dB of sound insulation, thanks to the use of double-tempered glass and airtight sealing systems.
This means you can enjoy a quieter, more peaceful indoor environment, even in noisy neighborhoods, near busy streets, or coastal areas with high wind noise.
Soundproofing is a key feature that sets Gladiator apart from cheaper, single-pane options on the market.
9. What kind of warranty do Gladiator doors come with?
longer - ready more than the title
At Gladiator, we back our quality with an industry-leading, long-term 15 year warranty.While many competitors offer only a 1–5 year limited warranty, our warranty is designed to cover the real-world lifespan of your doors, providing peace of mind against defects in materials and workmanship.
Specific coverage details and registration information are available directly through our customer support team after purchase.
10. Why should I avoid buying cheap sliding doors from big-box stores?
Wait - don't fall for the trap
Cheaper doors often come with serious hidden risks, including:
- Thin aluminum frames prone to bending and warping.
- Single-pane or low-grade glass that offers poor insulation and minimal storm resistance.
- Low wind ratings that make them unsafe for coastal or high-wind areas.
- Inferior sealing systems, resulting in water leaks and energy loss.
Additionally, cheaper doors frequently fail to meet U.S. building codes, potentially leading to costly modifications and inspection failures.Investing in Gladiator quality ensures your home is protected, comfortable, and energy-efficient for years to come.
11. How does Gladiator ensure smooth and easy sliding door operation over time?
SMOOTH AS BUTTER
We use SUS304 stainless steel track systems, which are far superior to the cheap aluminum tracks many competitors offer.
Stainless steel is naturally resistant to rust, corrosion, and wear, ensuring smooth, effortless operation for years — even in coastal and humid environments.
This commitment to durability ensures you won’t face sticky doors, noisy rollers, or premature breakdowns.
12. Are Gladiator Bi-Fold Doors customizable for size and color?
COLORS
Yes!At Gladiator, we offer fully customized sizing for both bi-fold and sliding doors to match your unique project needs — whether residential, commercial, or luxury builds.Choose from a range of frame colors, glass options, and hardware styles to complement your design vision.
Explore customization options on our Bi-Fold page:
13. How does Gladiator’s packaging protect my doors during shipping?
WRAP IT
Every door is packed in a fully enclosed high-strength wooden crate — a packaging method that costs us nearly $1,000 per shipment.
This professional crating prevents:
- Impact damage during transit.
- Moisture exposure.
- Frame warping or misalignment.
Many cheap door brands only use open-frame packaging, leading to frequent shipping damage and costly delays.
14. What is the lead time for Gladiator custom doors?
WORTH THE WAIT
Typical lead time is around 9-10 weeks, depending on customization choices and destination.Since every order is made-to-order for 2025 production, this ensures you receive a brand-new product, not one that’s been sitting in a warehouse.
15. Do Gladiator Sliding Doors have a hidden drainage system?
RAIN RAIN GO AWAY
Yes!
Our hidden drainage system discreetly removes water infiltration at the base of the frame, ensuring superior waterproofing and airtight sealing.This advanced design prevents mold, rot, and structural damage over time.
16. How do Gladiator Bi-Fold Doors handle extreme temperatures?
SO HOT....
Thanks to thermal break technology and argon gas-filled glazing, Gladiator doors maintain excellent thermal performance in both extreme heat and freezing conditions.
You’ll experience lower heating and cooling costs year-round, no matter your climate.
17. Can Gladiator doors be used for commercial properties?
wholesale pricing available
Absolutely.
Our heavy-duty construction standards make Gladiator Sliding and Bi-Fold Doors a top choice for:
Retail storefronts
Hotels and resorts
Multi-unit developments
Restaurants and cafes
We offer bulk pricing and project support for commercial clients. Contact us for a custom quote!
18. What security features are built into Gladiator doors?
No you don't
Security is a top priority.Our doors come with a six-point locking system and impact-resistant, double-tempered glass, providing exceptional protection against break-ins and forced entry attempts.
19. Are Gladiator Folding Doors hurricane-rated for Miami-Dade compliance?
miami dade rating?
Our heavy-duty doors are designed to withstand hurricane-force winds, and we also offer models built for Miami-Dade county standards.
For specific hurricane-rated options, visit:👉 Hurricane-Rated Doors
20. How do Gladiator doors perform against water leaks?
21. What type of glass is used in Gladiator doors?
22. Do Gladiator doors help reduce noise from outside?
23. Can Gladiator doors be installed in coastal areas?
24. What is a thermal break and why is it important?
25. Do Gladiator Sliding Doors have a low threshold option?
26. How are Gladiator doors tested for quality and compliance?
27. Why is it important to verify that doors meet U.S. building codes?
28. How much maintenance do Gladiator doors require?
29. What colors are available for Gladiator frames?
30. Do you offer dealer pricing and contractor discounts?
contractor pricing
Yes, absolutely!
At Gladiator Windows & Doors, we proudly support builders, contractors, designers, and developers with exclusive Pro Pricing and Wholesale Discounts.By joining our Reseller and Contractor Program, you gain access to:
Special discounted rates.
Priority production and support.
Customized quotes for large or ongoing projects.
Signing up is quick and easy — simply fill out the application here:👉 Become a Gladiator Pro Reseller
We believe in rewarding our professional partners with the best value in the industry.
31. Do you guarantee the lowest price in the USA?
we beat all prices
Yes, we do!
At Gladiator, we are so confident in the value and quality of our products that we offer a Guaranteed Lowest Price Promise.
If you find a comparable door — matching specifications, wind ratings, material quality, and warranty — at a lower price, we will beat it.
You never have to compromise on quality to get the best deal when you choose Gladiator Windows & Doors.
Protect your investment while saving money with doors built to last!
32. Why do so many websites not post prices or specifications — and you do?
look behind the curtain
Many companies intentionally hide their prices and technical specifications to avoid transparency.This often means:
Their products have inferior quality (like thinner frames, lower wind ratings, or non-certified glass).
Their doors don't meet U.S. building codes and would fail inspection.
They want to upsell after initial inquiries with hidden fees and upgrades.
At Gladiator Windows & Doors, we believe in full transparency.We clearly post our prices, specs, ratings, and certifications because we are proud of the products we offer — and we want you to make an informed, confident decision.
You’ll always know exactly what you're buying, with no surprises later.
