THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FRENCH DOORS & SLIDING DOORS

June 15, 2023

Homeowners seeking to enhance their living spaces by increasing natural light and seamlessly merging indoor and outdoor areas often opt for the installation of patio doors. However, with the wide variety of patio doors available in terms of sizes, styles, and materials, selecting the perfect option can become a daunting task.

In this article, we aim to shed light on the disparities between french doors and sliding doors. When contemplating the installation of either of these options, several factors must be taken into account. While both designs offer numerous advantages, they also come with certain limitations.

French Doors

French doors are a classic choice for patio entrances, typically consisting of hinged double doors that open outward. When fully opened, they provide unrestricted access to the entire width of the installed opening, ensuring convenient entry and exit.

The generous opening of French doors facilitates excellent ventilation, allowing you to control the amount of fresh air flowing inside by adjusting the operable panels.

Nevertheless, there are certain limitations to consider. Firstly, the wider panels of French doors result in a relatively smaller glass viewing area. This may reduce the amount of natural light entering the room and hinder the panoramic view. Additionally, due to their swinging motion, French doors require careful placement of outdoor furniture to avoid obstructing the path, which can be challenging in smaller garden spaces.

Over time, the hinges of French doors may encounter issues due to the weight they bear. Regular maintenance and servicing may be necessary to ensure smooth operation. Neglecting proper care could lead to difficulties in operating the doors.

Sliding Doors

Sliding doors provide a hassle-free operation as the weight of the sliding panel is fully supported by the track, requiring only a gentle push to set them in motion.

Unlike hinged doors, sliding doors operate on a parallel track, eliminating the need for extra space for full opening. This design feature makes them ideal for areas where space is limited and offers better protection against breezy weather conditions.

However, one limitation of sliding doors is that only about 50% of the total space can be opened at any given time. Even when fully open, the doors still occupy a portion of the opening, limiting the extent of accessibility.

Both French doors and sliding doors can be equipped with our innovative double glazing glass, ensuring energy efficiency and a comfortable living environment throughout the year, regardless of the season.

If you’re uncertain about which design suits your home best, we encourage you to reach out to us. We provide complimentary inspections and quotes, and our experts can guide you through all the considerations, such as the size of the opening, costs, performance, and security, helping you make an informed decision.