Door under hanging, its origin
Very widely used in the 18th century, back doors were found in large numbers in castles. They thus made it possible to create secret passages. There are also a large number of examples in Versailles, among others. They offered the possibility of escaping discreetly in certain critical situations or of going out discreetly to go find a mistress, for example.
These back doors could be masked by the same wallpaper as that of the wall, to blend in with the rest of the decor, hence their name of door under curtain, or they could be doors on which the picture rails of the wall extended, we spoke then of door under paneling. From now on, the term “door under hanging” or “back door” is used interchangeably to describe an invisible door. To ensure this invisibility, it is therefore important that fittings, hinges, etc. disappear. In addition, they must not present any demarcation in order to blend in completely with the space.
The advantages of a hanging door
A hanging door is designed so that it can be installed flush with the wall. This is the reason why it has various advantages:
- The continuity of the wall is preserved, which allows to have a uniform whole in which the door can be forgotten. Conversely, a classic door is applied to an existing partition and therefore always tends to create a break in the flatness of a wall. It can also weigh down the decoration
- It is ideal in a minimalist decoration, but not only.
- It also brings a mysterious dimension.
- One can therefore also find an advantage in having recourse to curtain doors to lighten, for example, a hallway, in which there would already be a large number of doors.
Their achievement
Originally : the back doors were made by cabinetmakers, since they were made of wood. Their development was difficult and, at times, imperfect. Indeed, it was common for a crack to appear between the doorframe and the part of the wall where the masonry had been made. In addition, they could only be made in the form of a pushing model, as the pulling models had exposed hinges.
From now on : progress has made its way: they are no longer in wood, but in aluminum. The door is then integrated to the nearest millimeter. Thanks to industrialization, it is now possible to make a 2-millimeter joint around the entire perimeter with perfect regularity that allows it to disappear into the wall. As for its installation, it can be carried out by a plasterer or a mason who has this type of skill.
A new or renovated installation
In new accommodation : a draped door can obviously be installed in a new home. In this case, we will first install the door and the partitions will only be made later. It is therefore essential that the door is installed perfectly level by forming an irreproachable right angle since it will serve as a base for everything else. It is characterized by an aluminum frame which is patented. It is this which not only allows its holding, but also obtaining a perfect adhesion with the materials used around.
In old accommodation : it is also possible to install this type of door during renovation. It is then necessary to open the partition wider in order to be able to install the metal frame. We will then recreate the wall around it by aligning with the door, as we would for an installation in new.
Characteristics
Dimensions : the hanging door is available in different sizes to meet all needs. So you can opt for a standard size. The door will then have a height of 204 cm and you will have the choice between different standard widths:
- 73 cm: with this door width you get a passage width of 70 cm, which is sufficient for one person.
- The wider models of 83 or 93 cm: these widths allow the passage of a wheelchair.
It is also possible to have a curtain door made to measure according to your needs. However, the price will be higher than that of a standard model.
Handle: if it is possible to have a handle on the door, this solution has the drawback of making the door more visible. For a more convincing result, you can also opt for a model with an invisible, pressure or magnetic opening system.
Materials : the hanging door can be made from different materials.
- You can find PVC in a wide choice of colors, but also perfectly imitating textures like wood, for example.
- It can be made of wood for a warm result.
- In aluminum, it allows to enjoy a contemporary result that is lighter.
- It can also be made of glass, copper, etc.
Type: There are different types of concealed door.
- She can be beating. It then requires sufficient clearance for its opening. It is then possible to push it, to pull it, to the right as to the left.
- Some models are sliding. The door then slides into the wall thanks to a pocket system. These models offer many possibilities. They can also be remote controlled. Another advantage of this solution is that it does not encroach on the volume of the room.
- Finally, it can be pivoted and will therefore rotate on an axis.
The price of a hanging door
The amount of your door will depend on the following criteria:
- the material chosen;
- the size of the door;
- the type of opening;
- the handle system.
Thus, the price of a door can vary between 900 € and 4000 €. To this purchase price, it will be necessary to add the price of the installation by a professional.