Sliding glass doors are a common choice for patios and backyards due to their space-saving design and large glass panels. However, many homeowners eventually look to replace sliding glass doors with French doors to create a more sophisticated and traditional look.
French doors, also called swinging doors, offer a distinct aesthetic, better ventilation, and a charming way to connect your indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether you're looking for better airflow, improved style, or simply want a fresh look, if you’re considering replacing a sliding door with French doors, read on.
Considerations When Changing Sliding Doors to French Doors
Before replacing sliding doors with French doors, there are several factors to think about. French doors require more space, come in a variety of materials, and offer plenty of options to customize their appearance. Here are some things to consider.
Space Requirements
You’ll need more space to replace sliding glass doors with French doors. Unlike sliding doors, which operate along a track and don’t require any swing space, French doors need enough room to open fully. They require objects to be well away from the door, so you need to consider the additional space required when they are fully opened. For example, a standard pair of French doors measuring 72 inches wide will need about 36 inches of clearance per door.
French doors come in both in-swing and out-swing options. In-swing patio doors open into the room (like the image shown here) whereas out-swing patio doors open to the exterior space, taking up room on your patio or deck. Think about the location of your current sliding glass door and measure the door to make sure the new panels won’t hit a wall or piece of furniture.
Material Types
The material you choose for your French doors is important for energy efficiency, durability, and maintenance. If you want to replace sliding glass doors with French doors, you have the option of two different frame materials to choose from: vinyl and fiberglass, both of which have distinct advantages depending on your climate and personal preferences.
Vinyl French doors are an affordable option and require little to no maintenance. They resist moisture, which makes them a good choice for areas prone to rain or humidity. Vinyl is also a great insulator, which helps keep your home energy-efficient by reducing drafts and maintaining stable indoor temperatures. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still provides solid performance, vinyl doors are a smart choice.
Fiberglass is more expensive than vinyl but offers superior durability, especially in extreme weather conditions. These doors are resistant to warping, cracking, and swelling, making them ideal for homes in areas with significant temperature fluctuations. Fiberglass doors are also excellent insulators and can last for decades with minimal upkeep. They often mimic the appearance of wood, providing a classic look without the high maintenance of actual wood.
Patio Door Options and Upgrades
As you look at replacing a sliding glass door with a French door, there are a variety of options and upgrades to consider. One popular option is to add grids, for a traditional French door look. Grids create the classic French door appearance by dividing the glass panes into smaller sections, giving your doors a more traditional feel. These grids can be placed between the glass for easy cleaning or on the exterior for a more textured look.
Hardware is another area where you can add personal touches. French doors come with a variety of hardware finishes, for example, the style and color of the door handle can be upgraded. Choosing the right hardware can help your doors blend seamlessly with your home's existing décor.
Sidelites can also be used for more light and ventilation. These are narrow windows installed on either side of the French doors. Sidelites allow more natural light to enter your home and create a grander entryway. While sidelites do increase the cost of your door installation, they’re an excellent choice if you want to brighten your space and create a more open feel.
Why Homeowners Choose French Doors to Replace Sliding Glass Doors
Homeowners replace sliding doors with French doors for many reasons. French doors evoke a sense of style, elegance and history. They have a traditional, timeless look that complements many architectural styles, especially colonial, farmhouse, and craftsman homes. Their large glass panels provide plenty of sunlight and unobstructed views of the outdoors, and many homeowners feel the swinging French door style provides a grand view and adds an air of elegance over sliding doors.
When you change a sliding door to a French door, you can also get more functionality. One benefit of French doors is that when both doors are open, they offer excellent ventilation and bring plenty of fresh air into your home. This can make your indoor spaces feel more connected to the outdoors, creating a more inviting atmosphere. The wide entryway also makes it easier to move large furniture or accommodate lots of people when you’re entertaining.
Cost to Replace Sliding Glass Doors with French Doors
The cost to replace a sliding door with French doors can vary based on materials and installation. On average, replacing sliding doors with French doors can range from $1,200 to $5,000. Vinyl doors tend to be on the lower end of the price spectrum, while fiberglass options are more expensive due to their durability and longevity.
Installation costs can vary, depending on the complexity of the project. Wondering how to replace a sliding glass door with French doors yourself? It’s not recommended. French doors require precise alignment and proper sealing to ensure energy efficiency and smooth operation, so you’ll want to hire a professional. A poorly installed door can lead to drafts, leaks, and operational issues over time, which could end up costing more in repairs.
Full sliding door to French door replacement not in your budget? Consider adding grids to sliding glass doors to achieve the French door look without the cost of a full renovation. French doors are available in both sliding door and swinging door operating styles, so you can achieve the look, no matter what you choose.
Find Your Perfect Patio Door
Making the switch from sliding glass doors to French doors should be fun, not complicated. Milgard offers a wide range of patio door options to fit your style, budget, and functional needs. Whether you’re looking to replace sliding glass doors with French doors or simply want to explore patio door upgrades, a MILGARD Certified Dealer can help you find the perfect fit. We’ve also created this handy patio door selection guide outlining a variety of options to help you get inspired.
