Selecting the Right Patio Door

patio door

Summertime in the home, for most families, usually means more time will be spent in the backyard. It’s during these months that the front door becomes obsolete, and the patio door becomes the most popular door in the house.

As the entryway to your backyard, this door provides convenient access and an uninhibited view of the patio. For some, it brings in natural light that transforms the room and for others it serves as the opening to create a seamless transition from outdoors to inside.

So, how do you decide which door is right for your home? The style, material and size will ultimately depend on the location of the door and for what it’ll be used.

Patio Door Styles, Materials and Glass Options

There are three different styles of patio doors: sliding, swinging and folding.

Sliding doors are the most popular, due to their versatility, ease of use and affordability. However, some homeowners choose a more traditional look with French patio doors. These doors are usually finished with decorative or full view glass panels to allow natural sunlight to still enter the room.

If you’re looking to make a statement, then folding doors are the way to go. These retractable doors act as a folding wall that opens the home to allow the outside to co-mingle without any barriers. Think about the size of the doorway and the purpose the door will serve to decide which style is the best fit.

There are four different materials used for patio doors: vinyl, wood, aluminum, and fiberglass

Vinyl is the most popular due to its strength and durability. Vinyl doors won’t fade, peel, rot or warp over time and come in a variety of colors and finishes. Like vinyl, aluminum doors are also very durable and are a cost-effective alternative. However, keep in mind that they are not as energy efficient so the climate of the area you live in should be a factor when considering which material is best.

Another factor to consider when deciding on which type of material you want your patio door to be made from is your budget. For instance, if you’re looking to spend a little bit more to have the most durable and weather resistant door, then investing in a fiberglass door is the best option.

Energy Efficient and Decorative Glass

After choosing the style and material, consider which type of glass you’d like. For a more energy efficient patio door, choosing Low-E glass will help lower energy bills and will also protect from harmful UV rays.

For a door that really stands out, some people choose to install decorative glass, or blinds and grids in between the glass. These are more aesthetic choices for your patio door. Therefore, they’re factors to consider if you’re focused on the overall look of the door rather than its specific function.

Installing your Patio Door

Once you’ve established the look of the patio door as a whole, be sure to consider security options as well as installation companies. You want to make sure your home is protected and that your door is properly installed. Working with a reliable door installation company like California Window & Door is your best option to ensure proper installation and security.

Our door and window professionals are experienced in installation techniques that guarantee your patio door will be installed correctly and that the security features of the door function properly. Contact us today to request a quote and schedule a date for installation.

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