Sliding vs. French Patio Doors: Pick Your Door Style

Do you want a new patio door but don't know where to start? It's not that difficult. Just take into account your personal preference and the size of the door. Nonetheless, there are a few other things to consider when deciding on a new patio door for your home.

There are many factors to consider when selecting a door, including the style of your home. A sliding glass door is more contemporary and can fit better with the aesthetic of your home. However, French doors are more traditional and often chosen for their matching aesthetic.

Here, we’re covering all the reasons why you should, or maybe shouldn’t, install a sliding door vs. a French patio door. Beyond style, don’t forget to consider the efficiency.

Sliding Patio Doors

One of the best features of a sliding door is that it opens in both directions. It's just a bit bigger than a standard entryway, so you'll have plenty of room to get in and out of the house. Sliding doors also allow you to plan out your space, so when you decide to redecorate, you don't have to worry about the limitations caused by the doors.

Here are some pros and cons of Sliding doors:

Sliding doors are easier to operate than the typical French door, which has a viewport that brings in more light. They are also much less hassle for the user.

Sliding doors may be harder to open and close than usual if it gets filled with dust or dirt. To keep your doors functioning properly, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential.

French Patio Doors

French doors are a convenient way to have two doors connected in the middle of the frame. They're typically used as an entryway, but you can use them however you'd like! French doors are a great way to open up your home and get the most value from your patio. They're perfect for moving large furniture and hosting parties with a lot of foot traffic and allow more light to enter your house.

Here are some pros and cons of French Patio Doors:

French doors are light and easy to open. They hang on hinges and swing recognizably, just like a normal door.

"Beware" of the wind. It can be dangerous if your French door has an outward opening because the wind can pull the user and cause injury and damage to the door. If you're in a windy area, consider opting for a sliding glass door instead.

Sliding vs. French Patio Doors: Comparison

You'll have to decide for yourself which door is the most cost-effective for your needs. While the cost will depend on installation labor and door style, French patio doors typically cost more than exterior sliding doors.

The price for sliding doors will vary by size, material, hardware, glass, and finish. The sliding door cost will be lower than an exterior door because it doesn't have many features.

The warranty varies on who installs your doors. If you hire a private individual or handyman, they may provide a verbal labor warranty.

More so, If you hire a from a door installation company, they will provide you with a written document. The terms are usually between 2-5 years.

The type of home you have will make a difference in how much you enjoy it. Durability and security are important, but if things don’t look like you wanted them to be, these may affect the house’s feel.

Certain homes better display a sliding door rather than french patio doors depending on the location, major uses of the house, and the homeowner’s preference.

If you're looking for a classic and timeless style, then French doors might be the best option for you. They can also be incorporated into older homes to match the style of the building. However, if you prefer sliding glass doors due to their modern look, they may not be the best choice for your old house.

French doors are ideal for those who need a lot of space because they can be opened completely. In comparison, sliding doors are narrow and suitable for small rooms. Some homeowners love the look of French doors but don't have the space to accommodate them.

That's why patio door manufacturers started offering sliding French patio doors. At the same time, they've combined French doors' wider frame with a sliding door function for maximum space-saving benefits.

If you're shopping for new patio doors, consider the impact of weather and its effect on your doors. If you live in an area with high wind gusts, installing sliding doors might be worth the investment.

Sliding vs. French Patio Doors: Final Showdown

Deciding between sliding doors and French patio doors can be difficult. But it comes down to your personal preference, so pick the one that looks good to you.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing between these two doors: which one will look better in your home, how easy it is to close and seal that door, and finally, which one will be more energy efficient.

French doors have smaller glass panels, while sliding glass doors have wide frames with large glass. French doors seal better due to their narrower frames, while sliding glass doors are more energy-efficient.

Sliding or French Patio Doors? Well, the answer depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a cost-effective door that doesn’t take up much space, then a sliding door is the best option. But if you want a more traditional style and have the room, French patio doors could be the right choice for you!