Are you in need of a patio door? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Patio doors not only act as a passageway, but they also save you energy and act as a source of natural light. With that in mind, selecting the best patio door is a crucial decision.
Now you may be wondering, are sliding doors better or french doors? Don’t worry, with this guide you can find out! From their pros to their cons, you can decide which door style is right for your patio today.
Now, are you ready to get started? Here’s a quick look at sliding glass doors vs. french doors:
Sliding Patio Doors
Sliding patio doors are also known as sliding glass doors due to their large glass panels. Usually, they contain two or more glass sections with one movable panel that slides along the track. However, some doors come with four panels and two moveable sections that either open in the center or on either side.
That way, whether you have a smaller house or a larger home, you can still feel the benefits of a sliding patio door. Now, if that’s piqued your interest, check this guide. It’ll help you select the best style for your home.
However, if you’re more hesitant, don’t worry; here are the pros and cons:
Pros
- Uses less space
- Provides large unrestricted views
- It provides more light which gives the illusion of a bigger space
- It tends to be affordable, starting at the cost of only $300 and an installation price of $500
- Good for small to medium homes
- It has a variety of colors and styles
- Creates a tight seal between panels that increases energy efficiency
- Has durable glass and multiple locks to ensure safety
Cons
- The track can easily become obstructed, making it hard for the slider to work
- The track will need to be cleaned routinely
- The slider door only opens halfway
- Anti-theft devices on doors can be large and unattractive
French Doors
French doors are typically described as two hinged doors that have glass panels for most of its length. The glass can be tinted, colored, stained, or have a pattern on it.
However, what really defines a french door is the thickness of the bottom rail. The bottom rail is typically wider than the top or sides, which gives the door a dramatic and more pronounced look.
If you’re unsure about this design, below are the pros and cons:
Pros
- Its swing radius adds depth and dimension to larger rooms
- Has classic designs that suit older or more traditional homes
- Both doors are operable
- Its wide opening is great for large amount of foot traffic or moving furniture
- The doors open so wide it also increases airflow
- The foundation tends to be lower, which makes it easier to step over
Cons
- Tends to be expensive, starting out with a base price of $1,000 and an installation price of $800
- It can be difficult to repair or replace
- Opening restrictions will need to be bought, so the door doesn’t open by a gush of wind
- Uses more space
- It can be difficult to install depending on your foundation
- Obstructs views
Sliding Glass Doors VS. French Doors: Which Is Better?
Selecting your patio door can be a difficult decision. After all, there are advantages to both sliding glass doors and french doors.
However, think about it this way, do you want a door that you’ll have to slide or one you’ll have to push? While it’s a rather simplistic way to look at it, answering that question can help you choose whether or not the added expense of french doors is worth it.
Now, for more information about sliding glass doors vs. french doors, visit our website today. We look forward to helping you find the right patio doors for your home.
