When the time comes in deciding on the perfect patio door for your home, the decision usually comes down to two choices: sliding patio doors and French patio doors. They both come with their charms and downfalls. Depending on your home, one door may work better for you than the other. That is why it is important that you understand the major key differences of each to figure out which one will work best for you. This blog will go over the major features that differentiate sliding patio doors and French patio doors.
Basic Structure
Sliding patio doors and French patio doors are the two most popular choices within homeowners for patio doors. However, each has their pros and cons. But before making a decision, it’s important to know the basic structure of each. Sliding patio doors are made up of two panels of glass, one stationary and the other able to slide open and closed on the tracks. They come with a second screen door that allows for ventilation without the worry of insects entering the house. French doors are a pair of glass, hinged doors that swing inward or outwards. They’re known for the aesthetic feature they provide.
Space
One of the biggest things you need to take into account before deciding on a patio door is the amount of space you have in your home. French doors require space for them to swing open. If you don’t have space in your patio or your living room for the doors to swing open, then we recommend that you go with a sliding patio door. Sliding doors don’t take up any space other than wall space. This option allows for freedom when it comes to planning out your space’s design since you won’t have to worry about the limitations caused by French doors.
While sliding patio doors provide a lot more flexibility when it comes to saving space, French doors allow for a wider opening to enter or exit the house. It makes it easier to move in/out large objects such as furniture. It also allows more space for foot traffic for whenever you’re hosting a party. Before going with French doors, remember that they require space to open, so make sure your house has the space to allow for that.
Design
Sliding patio doors and French doors each have their own aesthetic charm that complements homes in different ways. French patio doors are typically found in more traditional home styles due to their historical place in home design. They provide homes with a vintage, charming aesthetic that makes them a popular choice. Sliding patio doors offer a more modern aesthetic that is popular with homes that aim for a simple, modern look. Sliding patio doors work well with any home style, making them an easy go-to patio door option that doesn’t require too much consideration. French doors are gorgeous, but they don’t work well with every home style.
Screen Options
For people that find ventilation important, sliding patio doors would be a great choice as they have a screen. Screens serve as a second outer door since they add another level of comfort and protection to homes. Screens give homeowners ventilation without the worry of insects of outside debris entering the home. French doors don’t come with screens, making ventilation available only if the doors are open. You can always add a phantom screen, but that would have to be an extra expense on your part.
Sliding patio doors and French doors come with their pros and cons, however the decision comes down to your personal preference in regards to the design style you’re looking for, the amount of space you have, and the amount of convenience you’re looking for. We hope this blog helped you get an understanding of the features that these doors provide to help you decide which one is best for your home. Check out our video below to learn more about Sliding Patio Doors vs. French doors!
If you decide on getting a sliding patio door or a French door for your home, give WindowFits a call at 1-951-677-2593 or visit our website for a free quote. We’ve been in the business for 17 years, and we promise you a high-quality door installation that will allow you to enjoy your new patio door to the max!