Choosing Patio Doors for Your Home

Patio doors have a range of styles, but what should you be looking for when choosing the perfect one for your home? There are three basic types; sliding patio doors, folding patio doors, and the swinging or french patio doors. They are customizable and can be made from different materials, such as wood, vinyl, fiberglass, steel, or aluminum. Here are the kinds of patio doors, features you should be looking for, and the difference a new patio can make for your home or place of business.

Types of Patio Doors

Sliding Patio Doors have a modern look and create a seamless transition into another room. They are the most popular options for patio doors that open out into a lawn or the pool. Its track and sliding mechanism consist of two adjustable rollers that are self-lubricating, allowing easy usage. Sliding patio doors also allow natural light from its large glass panels, making small spaces appear more prominent.

Folding Patio Doors open like an accordion. They give out that modern, sophisticated appeal and can also add more personality to period-inspired homes. Its mechanism usually consists of two and eight-panel track systems and takes up very little space. These doors are low maintenance and are ideal if you are combining two rooms for a party or a meeting.

Swinging and French Patio Doors are elegant and dramatic. They are the easiest to clean from the three kinds of patio doors and are simple to operate. Like traditional doors, it consists of two doors that are side by side and allow for a larger and grander entrance. Usually, they open up into the dining room from the kitchen or the living room into the patio area.

Patio Door Features to Look For

After choosing the type of patio door that best suits your space, its features are the next thing you will need to consider. Here are a few questions you should ask:

Are the bearings stainless?

Stainless should not be an option but a requirement for patio doors because they open into a more exposed space to weather changes. If the bearings are not stainless, then rust will damage them, making the doors unsafe and maybe even unusable.

Do they have a security lock?

Most sliding doors have a security lock on the top of the door or by the handle. But you also have the option of adding a secondary locking system such as a loop lock. You can also block the tracks from the bottom part for additional security.

Are they easy to operate?

The patio doors should be easy to operate, open smoothly and quietly. If lubricants need to be applied, don’t forget to ask which type is recommended. The hinges should be secure, and glass fixtures should be installed appropriately. If they start to become loose or break, will the warranty cover them, and are the repairs or replacements unlimited.

How energy efficient are they?

Patio doors are not just aesthetically pleasing; they should also be energy efficient. Ask if they offer multiple glass panes if you live in an area that gets extremely cold. There are also panes where there is gas in between the glasses for thermal conductivity. And low e-coating or low emissivity is a thin coat of metallic particles that reflect the heat. It can be added to both sides of the glass or in between layers of glass.

From the patio doors’ kinds and features, you should also consider the importance of the quality of materials being used. Here are a few options:

Wood

One of the most durable materials for patio doors, but can be costly. They can be sealed, stained, painted, and cut into many shapes and designs. Minimal scratches can easily be repaired, and they are easy to maintain once they are properly treated and sealed to prevent moisture damage.

Vinyl

These patio doors affordable and durable. Resistant to extreme temperatures and available in a variety of finishes. They are easily installed and can be customized. Vinyl patio doors will not need painting or require any staining. You can also choose from a wide selection of pre-designed styles.

Fiberglass

Weather resistant and is commonly used to protect your home from heavy rain and intense heat. Fiberglass is energy efficient, and because it uses glass, natural light can quickly come in and brighten up space. If sealed well, it will be leakproof and a great energy saver. Its doors require very little maintenance, and the strength of this material will provide you excellent security.

Steel

These are an excellent choice for traditional and industrial themed spaces. They add to the character of your area and offer long-lasting security. The steel’s ability to achieve a thin yet sturdy frame gives it a sleek and polished look. Its ability to be curved puts its versatility factor a top choice for patio door materials.

Aluminum

Not as sturdy as steel, but its material can also achieve that thin frame like steel patio doors but for less of the price. It can also achieve narrow sightlines and use less material, allowing more glass, thus creating the illusion of a bigger window. Its flexibility is one of its best features because it can be molded into other materials. Aluminum is also highly resistant to the outside elements and does not easily crack or swell. Just like fiberglass and steel, aluminum is durable and easy to maintain.

The Difference a New Patio Door Can Make

A new patio door can make an incredible difference to your home or business. It can create a more welcoming atmosphere and take away that cramped feeling that your previous doors once had. Opening up and combining your spaces will allow more movement for gatherings. After the event, you can close the doors again for privacy. New patio doors will also allow air to move more freely, bring in the morning sunlight, and lower your energy bills — a difference worth the investment.

Schedule a free estimate with 1-800-HANSONS if you’re looking for high-quality patio doors.