Double doors provide a grand entrance, with two entryways that open inwards. Patio doors offer a modern design, with one large panel of glass that slides open.
Patio doors for the home come in a broad range of materials, types and functions. The definition of a patio door usually means sliding doors opening out to a patio area or decking. However, patio doors today now also include also include French doors, frameless, stacking and even bifolding doors as garden access doors.
In the glazing industry, double doors can refer to any doors with two independently opening leaves. This includes French doors, but normally if you hear an industry professional talking about double doors, they are speaking about a larger version of the classic French door.
What is the difference between French doors and patio doors? While they are both stunningly wide doors, the main difference between French doors and sliding patio doors is the way they open. French doors are double doors that swing on hinges, while sliding patio doors slide on a track along the wall.
A sliding glass door frame is typically narrower than a French patio door frame, which means it will allow more natural light into your home. However, the wider frame on a French patio door is a more traditional style, which many homeowners desire.
Are external sliding doors old-fashioned? The truth is… NO! They may have once been deemed as a patio door style which was not as popular but it is argued that this was only because of the explosion of bifold doors and not because the style of sliding doors were actually out of style.
Which is better French door or sliding door? Traditional timber French doors can be just as secure as the new modern style doors provided they have the right locks on the doors. Again it comes down to the right locks and the level of quality you choose.
French doors are typically more expensive than sliding glass doors. However, they can offer a more classic look to your home. They are also easier to clean since there is no track for dirt and debris to get caught in.
An astragal is the vertical strip that is placed in between your two french doors. The astragal is attached to the inactive door pane, or the panel that is not typically used for entry and exit, in your french door system.
French Doors
These installations are especially ideal for those who want to increase their home value through renovation or plan on selling it. French doors are typically viewed as high-end installations that add class and sophistication to any home, which is why they are able to increase a home's value.
Access – When your French doors are fully open you should have full access to the width of the opening. But you will be limited by the maximum leaf size (generally around 900mm), so a maximum opening with both doors open would be about 1800mm wide.
: an opening with two vertical doors that meet in the middle of the opening when closed compare dutch door.
French doors are essentially like regular double doors, which open outwards and give you full access to the space between the frame. These are great for smaller spaces and when opening into smaller gardens. Sliding patio doors means that you can open up into much wider spaces.
The main difference between patio doors and French doors is how each opens. French doors open outwards on a hinge whereas patio doors slide along a track and open to the side. Patio doors are more modern in appearance and therefore best suited to a modern, contemporary property.
Sills are the bottom component of a door frame. They are the part of the door that gets sealed and fastened to the floor.
Mullion for Double Doors
Fixed mullions are an integral part of the frame between two doors. They allow the doors to swing off the mullion if required. This type of mullion actually separates the doors and causes the doors to become single doors within the frame.
The knob at the door's midpoint provides more security, with a crossbar stretched across its width for even more reinforcing support. A central knob also presents a more straightforward installation for latching technology, which is beneficial for keeping doors shut.
Center Hinge Doors are used where you have the wall space for a French or Patio door but only want one side to open. The center hinge door will provide the look of a French door but hinge in the center allowing the opening to be on the right or left side rather than the center.
The cons of sliding doors
Being a large expanse of glass, you may notice a build-up of dirt, grease and grime, made worse in homes with pets or children. However, this is easily overcome with regular cleaning, and is a small price to pay for uninterrupted views and natural light.
Patio doors, for example, serve as a protection against security threats. Just like windows, a patio door can be an entry point for intruders. In this case, French patio doors are much more effective than sliding doors because of their dependable locking system.
It's common for outside French doors to have areas that allow air leakage to occur. As the weather gets chillier, we need to find a solution before it's too late. Here's a quick step-by-step guide on weatherproofing your external French doors.
Steel Material
The steel is a good weather-friendly material for patio doors. Because it's kind of heavy in strength, it is considered one of the secure options for a patio door.
Generally, sliding patio doors and French doors deliver the best security features, incorporating desirable PAS24 approved anti-pick, bump, and drill cylinders as standard. However, that's not to say our aluminium bifold doors are insecure, in fact, far from it!