Many homeowners fall in love with French patio doors, which have long been celebrated for their ability to blend functionality with aesthetic appeal and add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. But as you explore your design options, you may find that your space won’t fit French doors that swing outward or inward. That’s where sliding French patio doors come into play. Let’s dive into the differences between the two styles and the benefits of sliding glass door replacements.
What Are Classic French Doors?
Classic exterior French doors, also called swinging patio doors, consist of a pair of doors that feature multiple panes of glass. They’re hinged on the left and right side, opening outwards or inwards from the middle. Known for their traditional charm, they’re a very popular choice for patio doors or garden doors that connect the interior of a home with an outdoor space.
What Are Sliding French Doors?
Sliding French doors have the appearance of traditional French doors, with wider supports and rails, while functioning as a sliding glass door. French sliding doors function the same way as standard sliding glass doors – they glide along a track to open. So what makes them French? They’re designed with window grid options and hardware, like handles and hinges, that matches French-style doors.
Different Types of Sliding French Patio Doors
In addition to choosing window grids and hardware in the French style, you can add other features to your sliding porch doors that add practicality and style.
Sliding French Patio Doors with Built-In Blinds
These doors come equipped with blinds situated between the glass panes, offering a sleek solution to light and privacy control without compromising the door's aesthetic appeal. This feature is particularly beneficial for maintaining clean lines and minimizing dust accumulation.
Sliding French Patio Doors with Screens
Adding a screen to sliding French patio doors enhances their functionality by allowing fresh air to circulate while keeping pests out. This is perfect for those who love to blend indoor comfort with the feel of the outdoors, especially during warmer months – and it isn’t an option with classic-style French doors.
Benefits of French Sliding Patio Doors
Choosing sliding French doors for your patio has a number of advantages. Their unique yet consistent look brings together the best of both worlds, providing a solution that's as practical as it is beautiful.
- Space-saving: By sliding open rather than swinging, sliding French patio doors save floor space, making them suitable for compact areas.
- Aesthetic appeal: Sliding French doors add a sophisticated touch to any home, enhancing both the interior design and the exterior curb appeal.
- Increased natural light: The expansive glass panes let in plenty of natural light, brightening up indoor spaces and creating a more inviting atmosphere.
- Improved access to outdoor areas: Sliding French patio doors provide seamless access to outdoor spaces, making them perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet moments in nature.
Disadvantages of French Sliding Patio Doors
While sliding French doors offer numerous benefits, there are a few disadvantages. Factors such as cost, maintenance, and installation play a significant role in determining whether these doors are the right fit for your home.
- Cost: Sliding French patio doors can be more expensive than standard doors due to their design and functionality. They’re also slightly less energy-efficient.
- Maintenance: The tracks of sliding patio doors require regular cleaning to ensure smooth operation, and the glass may need frequent cleaning to maintain clarity.
- Installation: Proper installation is crucial to prevent air and water leaks, so professional assistance is required.
Find the Right Patio Doors for Your Home
Sliding French patio doors offer an elegant, practical solution for connecting indoor and outdoor spaces while providing benefits like natural light, aesthetic appeal, and space efficiency. While they come with considerations such as cost and maintenance, the value they add to a home can make them a worthy addition.
Whether you choose traditional French doors or sliding glass doors, Milgard has you covered. We offer both styles, as well as bifold, pocket, and double sliding patio doors. Choose your color and window grids to customize your doors in the French style and give your home a new level of sophistication. Shop our patio doors now to find the right option for your home.
