When it comes to enhancing accessibility, convenience, and energy efficiency, installing an automatic door is a smart move. But one of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing between a sliding door and a swing door.

Each option offers unique benefits — and the right choice depends on your space, traffic flow, safety needs, and design preferences.

Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which type of automatic door is best for your building or facility.

1. Traffic Flow & Usage Frequency

Sliding Doors

• Ideal for high-traffic areas such as commercial entrances, hospitals, airports, and shopping centers.
  
• Provide a hands-free, continuous flow, allowing people to move in and out without hesitation.
  
• Great when you expect simultaneous two-way traffic.
  

Swing Doors

• Best suited for medium to low-traffic areas, such as offices, clinics, and smaller retail spaces.
  
• Usually open in one direction, making them better for controlled, single-direction access (e.g., entrances or exits).
  
• Often used where space or wall constraints make sliding doors impractical.
  

2. Available Space

Sliding Doors

• Require horizontal space to slide open along the wall or into a pocket.
  
• Perfect when you want to maximize entrance width without door panels swinging outward or inward.
  
• Excellent for narrow corridors or glass storefronts.
  

Swing Doors

• Require clear swing space, which can be a challenge in tight areas.
  
• Typically more compact if wall space is limited — they don’t need side clearance like sliding doors.
  
• May work better in retrofits or buildings with traditional layouts.
  

3. Accessibility and Safety

Sliding Doors

• Provide smoother and quieter access for people with mobility challenges.
  
• Often paired with motion sensors for hands-free, no-contact entry.
  
• Excellent for compliance with ADA (Accessibility) requirements.
  

Swing Doors

• Can be automated with push plates or touchless sensors.
  
• May pose more risk in high-traffic zones if people approach from both sides.
  
• Good option when paired with proper safety sensors and opening speed control.
  

4. Energy Efficiency & Climate Control

Sliding Doors

• Generally more energy-efficient, especially in double-door vestibule setups.
  
• Less air exchange thanks to shorter open/close times and tight seals.
  
• Ideal for temperature-controlled environments.
  

Swing Doors

• May remain open longer depending on activation method and timing.
  
• More prone to airflow loss in windy or high-exposure areas unless adjusted correctly.
  
• Still effective when set with appropriate timers and closers.
  

5. Cost and Maintenance

Sliding Doors

• Typically higher initial cost due to complex mechanisms and sensors.
  
• Require regular maintenance of tracks, rollers, and sensors.
  
• Durable and long-lasting in busy environments.
  

Swing Doors

• Often more affordable upfront and easier to install.
  
• Lower maintenance in light-traffic areas.
  
• Fewer moving parts means simpler service and upkeep.
  

Final Recommendation

• Choose sliding doors if:
  
  • You expect high traffic and need seamless, hands-free access
    
  • You want a modern, space-saving look
    
  • You’re optimizing for energy efficiency and ADA compliance
    
• Choose swing doors if:
  
  • Space is limited and traffic is moderate
    
  • You’re retrofitting an existing entrance
    
  • You need a cost-effective, easy-to-maintain solution
    

Need Help Deciding?

At Stride Access in Burlington, our experts can guide you in choosing the right automatic door solution for your building — whether it’s a sliding or swing system. We handle everything from design and consultation to installation, repair, and maintenance. Contact us today to get expert advice tailored to your space and needs.