Did you know that about 80% of homes in the U.S. are 20 years old or more? Are you wanting to upgrade your home by choosing the best patio door?
In this article, we’ll dive into picking the right patio door to accentuate your home. Sit back, smell the garden, and read on as you discover the best tips for picking your dream patio door today.
Image by Gregory Beaty
What Fits Your Home?
One option for patio doors is choosing beautifully designed french doors. You can choose sliding patio doors for functionality and an affordable option.
This option won’t require much upkeep, and you can transition from indoor to out with ease. Enjoy extra lighting in your home from the sliding glass doors.
Choosing the Right Materials
From aluminum to vinyl patio doors, there are different types of material to choose from. Aluminum patio doors are an inexpensive option.
Aluminum
Since it’s lighter, it’s not great at keeping cool or retaining heat as well as other materials. You might find your energy bill increasing if you install aluminum doors. Keep in mind that they can scratch and dent easily as well.
Wood
You have color and customization options when it comes to wood doors. Keep in mind that they’re more expensive than other materials. They also need more upkeep as well.
Vinyl
Vinyl doors are a great option when you live in an area that sees extreme weather. They’re built to last for years.
It’s a less expensive option than fiberglass and wood. Vinyl patio doors are an energy-efficient option as well. There are various options to choose from for vinyl including woodgrain laminate that looks like wood.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass patio doors are a great option when you’re looking for something that’s little to no maintenance. This is the most expensive material to choose from. It does have customization options and requires little to no maintenance.
Glass Options
Along with numerous types of material, there are different types of glass as well. You can choose decorative glass to make a fashion statement with your doors.
Decorative
French doors tend to have decorative glass. Decorative glass is a good option when you’re looking to have privacy and design all at the same time.
Low-E Glass
Low-E glass is great for lowering your energy bills. It also protects you from harmful UV rays as well. UV rays can damage your furniture, wood floors, and carpeting.
Patio Door Upgrades
You can have a variety of customization options to make it your own style. For example, there are plenty of color options to make your door’s style pop.
You can also choose different hardware for your door such as polished brass, dark bronze, nickel, etc. Also, you can choose to have blinds between the glass.
In order to keep pests outside, you can add a patio screen door. This will allow you to still have fresh air come into your home.
Impact Resistant
If you’re on the coast, you’ll want to consider impact-resistant patio doors. They have an invisible and heavy plastic interlayer that’s between the glass panes.
It helps prevent the glass from being hit by flying debris. In extreme conditions, the glass panes might shatter, but the interlayer won’t break out of its frame.
The Best Patio Door
When deciding which patio door is best for you, determine what security requirements you have, your budget, the size of the opening, and the performance. Sliding doors are a good option when you don’t have much space, and you’re looking for an affordable option.
If you’re looking for energy efficiency and customization options, choose french doors. They’re an option when you have more space for the doors to go into.
Patio Door Locks
You’ll want to consider patio door lock features, especially if you’re on the ground level. Patio doors can have multiple locking mechanisms. They can be on the door screen, and the main part of the door as well.
Hinged Doors
Whether you’re choosing hinged or french patio doors, you’ll have the option of deadbolt locking systems. You’ll also have a bottom lock on the knob or handle, and a deadbolt on the top.
Dual Point
Dual point locks are where there are 2 hooks that latch onto the door frame from the sliding part of the door or sash. You can also choose a 4-point locking mechanism for sliding patio doors.
Things To Consider
As you’re choosing the right patio for you, you’ll want to keep design tips in mind. For example, French and swinging doors will need room to open.
If you choose this type of patio door you’ll want to consider the wall placement and furniture. If you’re tight on space, consider a stationary panel with a single swinging door. You can also choose sliding doors that fit well.
Your best option for patio doors is picking one that’s easy to maintain and is durable. This is most important if you’re considering a patio door for your front door. Certain types of wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl don’t need to be painted.
Choosing the Best Patio Door
Now that you’ve explored different tips on picking out the best patio door, you should have a better idea of what’s right for you. Keep your budget, design choices, and location in mind as you pick one out.
Would you like to read more home renovation content? For design inspiration on everything from your kitchen to shed, check out our other articles today.
