French doors are a popular type of patio entry door. Homeowners love them for the natural light they allow in, increased air flow, and diverse aesthetic styles. They’re also an upscale addition with the potential to increase your home’s value.
However, all French doors aren’t created equal. If you’re thinking of upgrading to French doors or of incorporating them into your remodel or home build project, here are some key features to consider.
Material
Also referred to as “swinging patio doors” and “hinged patio doors,” French doors are available in a breadth and depth of materials—each with their own pros and cons across aspects like durability, style, and energy efficiency. The type that’s right for you depends on your priorities.
Two especially popular options for contemporary homeowners? Aluminum and vinyl.
Aluminum French doors have many advantages, including the fact that because they’re 100 percent recyclable, they’re sustainable and eco-friendly. Other benefits include that they’re very durable, easy to maintain, versatile, and customizable.
Vinyl French doors have similar allures, including that they’re highly energy efficient, economically, come in an assortment of styles, and are virtually maintenance-free.
Glass
The type of glass used for French doors has a direct impact on both their value and functionality. While non-impact glass may seem preferable at first glance due to its cheaper price tag, this overlooks and underestimates the profound advantages of choosing high-quality glass.
Not only will hurricane impact French doors help protect your home in the event of a hurricane or other extreme weather event thanks to their ability to withstand significant amounts of force, the additional insulation they offer keeps out harmful UV rays, adds sound protection, and is a deterrent to intruders. Opting for French doors with impact glass is also a wise investment in terms of the curb appeal and resale value they add.
As with impact windows and doors, impact French doors are available in many finishes and styles, and do an unparalleled job of defending your home.
Security
While high-impact glass adds security to French doors, you can further fortify them with features like three-point locking systems, high-quality mortise locks, double-cylinder deadbolts, and security hinges.
It’s also important to note that tempered glass and impact glass are not the same thing. If you’re looking for the most effective level of security against everything from breakage to break-ins, impact glass is superior.
Style
Mere mention of “French doors” brings to mind thoughts of gracious and grandiose entryways. When used as an alternative to sliding doors, they add an element of drama, romance, and charm.
Homeowners have the option of either double or single French doors. They can also choose to customize their French doors with architectural features like transoms and sidelights. In addition to allowing more natural light into your home, these details also further enhance curb appeal.
Depending on your personal style and aesthetic preferences, you can further transform the look of your French doors with window coverings. Roman shades, gathered sheers, cellular shades, and blinds are a few popular picks among window covering options.
Location
Location dictates whether to go within inward or outward swinging French doors. Outward swinging doors are often preferable because they allow for more interior space. However, this also means the doors—and their hardware—will be subject to poor weather. Choosing the right materials can offset this downside and extend both the functionality and longevity of your French doors.
Cost
Many people mistakenly assume that French doors are automatically more expensive than sliding doors. This isn’t necessarily the case as it depends on the materials and custom options you choose.
However, it’s also important to factor in the value they provide. Especially if you invest in impact French doors, they offer many benefits that will continue to deliver value for years to come. In fact, according to Realtor.com, they’re an excellent investment because of their impact on your home’s resale value. Houzz also included both upgrading exterior doors and French doors on its roundup of 10 Ways to Boost Your Home’s Resale Value.
French doors have transformative potential when incorporated into your home build or remodeling project. However, the value you get out of your French doors relies on their quality. For example, impact French doors are particularly beneficial—especially in Florida and other locations known for extreme weather events.
To learn more about CGI’s high-performance impact windows and doors, including how the addition of a double French door or single French doors can improve the look, feel, and security of your home, contact us today.
