Sliding Patio Doors vs. French Doors
So you need new doors looking out onto your back patio. Which type do you choose? You have a lot of options at your fingertips, but most people narrow down those choices to sliding patio doors or French doors. Which one is right for you? You’ll have to consider cost, design, and style to ensure the one you end up with gels with your home and your budget. Check out these tips to help you make that all-important selection.
Sliding Patio Doors
Per the name, these doors slide from side to side on a track. They’re also referred to as gliding patio doors, as they can slide open and closed horizontally. This is a great choice for many homeowners who are limited on space. They don’t swing outward, therefore they don’t take up a lot of interior or exterior space. In addition, they’re easier to adjust than their French door counterparts if your foundation shifts at all in the future.
If you have a modern home, sliding patio doors offer a more contemporary look. And, if you’re looking to save money, they’re usually less expensive than French doors. You get added security with this type of door, especially if you purchase a model with a multi-point locking system. In the past, the only way you could ensure more security beyond the simple lock mechanism was to place rods or narrow blocks in the tracks. Today’s sliding patio doors provide unobstructed views and lots of light because they don’t have panels or panes, says Architect Magazine. This type of door gives you more surface area of natural light, plus they’re cost effective and make the most of your views.
One style flaw that detracts from the positive column of the sliding door is that the more pronounced threshold due to the track presents a potential tripping hazard. Also, you don’t get as much wide-open space if you want to open up your home to entertain, or if you want to move large pieces of furniture through that opening.
French Patio Doors
French patio doors more closely resemble regular doors, as they comprise two complementary doors that open and close on hinges. This gives homeowners the option of leaving one closed and the other open for fresh air and light. The best thing about French doors is perhaps their look. They provide a classic, elegant look to any room and can be used as an interior door as well as an exterior door. You can open both doors wide when entertaining and you get more versatility in opening up space for moving large items. They don’t work on tracks, so the tripping hazard is not as great.
However, if you’re limited in terms of space, this may not be an ideal option because you will take up valuable real estate inside or outside the home when opening the doors wide. You can’t adjust these doors if your foundation were to shift down the road, and French doors could be cost prohibitive to those on a tight budget.
Whichever type of patio door you choose, you’re sure to add a beautiful, appealing and functional accent to any room or porch. This decision is highly personal to each homeowner. Here at Dallas Door Designs, we would be happy to help you decide which would be the better option for your space.
Contact Dallas Door Designs
Contact us at 214-973-0373 to ask about our many designs and styles when it comes to patio doors. Schedule your showroom visit Monday through Saturday by appointment only.