As usual we argued, this time over sliding patio door vs a French door. I wanted the stylish, elegant French door for the patio off the dining room. He wanted the minimalist, space saving sliding door. Of course we both were sure each of us had made the right choice. But a decision had to be made. After all we couldn't interminably argue like most of the other times. So my husband being the more balanced and sensible of the two (I knew it€¦still argued) suggested that we should take a good look at the pros and cons of both the doors and then decide. It doesn't matter who wins he said. It's after all OUR home.
So here's what we discovered together without arguing any more (was not easy for me I say).In terms of performance, energy efficiency and security both French doors and sliding doors were equally good. So ultimately our choice would depend on factors like looks, space and the budget.
French Doors are hinged doors opening inwards or outwards and hence need more space for operation. They have a classy look and considered to be decorative and would be the right choice for a traditional style home. Typically they have multiple windows that line the door from top to bottom. The pieces of glass are separated by wooden beams. This lets in less light compared to sliding doors which are fully made of glass. Nowadays however French doors made fully with glass or etched decorative glass are also available. French doors offer a wide opening as both panels can be opened fully.
Sliding Patio doors slide and open along horizontal tracks. Their greatest advantage is that they don't take up extra space to open because their panels don't swing in or out like French doors. This allows more space which can be used for other purposes. Made mostly of glass from top to bottom, they let in more light and make the room look spacious while giving a good view of the outside. They are more modern looking and sleek they don't gel with traditional style homes. Available in steel, fiberglass or vinyl, they are easy to maintain too. The only drawback is they don't offer a wider opening as one panel has to remain stationary while other slides.
After we finally agreed on which door to buy (will tell who won at the end), we researched and got quotes from three companies and asked our friends for recommendations. Some of them recommended Champion Window. So we read the reviews of Champion Windows, checked their website and settled with this company. Their patio doors are Energy Star rated and came with the best double pane energy efficient glass which would let in more light while protecting the interior from UV rays and excess heat.
After calling them for consultation and looking at their products, we ordered for guess what €¦€¦sliding patio doors. I was convinced (or did he convince me??) and finally accepted husband's opinion. After all it best suited our not too big, modern home with trendy furniture. And the most important thing was it fitted our budget. I am happy for the light it brings in to my kitchen and the advantage of having my kids play out safely while I work and watch over them.
But€¦ every once in a while I do think about a patio with a classic French door.
So here's what we discovered together without arguing any more (was not easy for me I say).In terms of performance, energy efficiency and security both French doors and sliding doors were equally good. So ultimately our choice would depend on factors like looks, space and the budget.
French Doors are hinged doors opening inwards or outwards and hence need more space for operation. They have a classy look and considered to be decorative and would be the right choice for a traditional style home. Typically they have multiple windows that line the door from top to bottom. The pieces of glass are separated by wooden beams. This lets in less light compared to sliding doors which are fully made of glass. Nowadays however French doors made fully with glass or etched decorative glass are also available. French doors offer a wide opening as both panels can be opened fully.
Sliding Patio doors slide and open along horizontal tracks. Their greatest advantage is that they don't take up extra space to open because their panels don't swing in or out like French doors. This allows more space which can be used for other purposes. Made mostly of glass from top to bottom, they let in more light and make the room look spacious while giving a good view of the outside. They are more modern looking and sleek they don't gel with traditional style homes. Available in steel, fiberglass or vinyl, they are easy to maintain too. The only drawback is they don't offer a wider opening as one panel has to remain stationary while other slides.
After we finally agreed on which door to buy (will tell who won at the end), we researched and got quotes from three companies and asked our friends for recommendations. Some of them recommended Champion Window. So we read the reviews of Champion Windows, checked their website and settled with this company. Their patio doors are Energy Star rated and came with the best double pane energy efficient glass which would let in more light while protecting the interior from UV rays and excess heat.
After calling them for consultation and looking at their products, we ordered for guess what €¦€¦sliding patio doors. I was convinced (or did he convince me??) and finally accepted husband's opinion. After all it best suited our not too big, modern home with trendy furniture. And the most important thing was it fitted our budget. I am happy for the light it brings in to my kitchen and the advantage of having my kids play out safely while I work and watch over them.
But€¦ every once in a while I do think about a patio with a classic French door.