Pros. Secure: French doors, while made of glass, provide more security and protection than other types of glass doors. They are equipped with multiple lock points and are made of smaller glass panes instead of large ones.
While sliding doors have greater flexibility in terms of space, French patio doors may provide an overall wider opening to the outside. A wider door opening can be convenient for a variety of reasons, such as hosting a party or moving large pieces of furniture. Two operable doors will also allow better ventilation.
Sliding doors are more energy efficient than French doors due to the way they're designed. Since French doors shut against the frame with nothing behind them, it's easier for air to leak through the openings in the doorway no matter how small they are.
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.
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.
In terms of security, the type of patio door that is most secure overall is the French Door. While bifold and sliding doors can be extremely secure, French doors usually take the top spot due to how they operate. French doors have a whole host of features that make them more secure.
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.
Cost of French doors—and resale value
All in all, they're a good investment in your home, since they don't cost much but add significant resale value, so they almost pay for themselves.
If you live in an older home with a more traditional style, or you prefer a more classic look, then sliding glass doors may not be the right choice for you. French doors compliment most older homes, while also providing a timeless look in newer buildings.
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.
Replacing old sliding glass doors with hinged French doors is a popular option for updating your home and adding new, elegant style. Installing French doors from scratch is a big job, but it's made easier by pre-made door kits.
Where space is becoming increasingly difficult to get, sliding doors allow your spaces to instantly become bigger as they operate without a hinge–they simply float along a track instead of swinging open. That means that no extra space is needed for the door arc as they simply open up by one door sliding over another.
The classic, innovative design of French doors make them a very popular choice as an alternative to sliding patio doors because they allow for a wide opening – this is great for ventilation and creating an open atmosphere within the space.
Sliding glass patio doors are a valuable addition to any home. They offer energy efficiency, an abundance of natural light, enhanced curb appeal, a seamless indoor/outdoor transition, durability, and increased resale value.
French doors allow for both doors to actually open and function. A double door or two-section patio door has a "dummy door" that doesn't actually function, it stays stationary and only one door opens.
Generally, the more moving components and panels a door has, the more costly it is. The price of patio doors depends on the brand, material, size, type of glass (single, double, triple-pane), and color.
The single-hinged door is the most common interior type of door. Room design must allow space for hinged doors to swing. Interior doors typically are lightweight and have two hinges; exterior doors are heavy and often use three hinges.
Aluminum or Steel
Metal is a popular choice for exterior doors, particularly aluminum and steel. Both materials are good thermal insulators, making it an energy-efficient choice.
Most modern energy-efficient patio doors have double-paned glass. Some homes, those in colder regions, may use triple-paned glass.
No, French doors are a timeless addition to a home and have been in style for many years.
While French doors offer many benefits to your home, they also come with some unique challenges. French doors typically have glass panes, which can be easily broken. This means that criminals can enter your home by simply breaking a pane and reaching through to unlock the door.
French patio doors typically cost more than sliding patio doors, but the cost of either door style can vary greatly depending on the custom options you choose. In fact, Home Advisor estimates the average cost to install any door is between $475 and $1291, which is a fairly wide range.
Cost of sliding doors vs French doors
Traditional French Doors are typically the cheapest option for patio doors when compared to sliding doors, but they do not offer the same huge glass expanses and subsequent natural light. They cost less than sliding doors because there's a smaller expanse of space.
French doors are more expensive, but they're popular among homeowners seeking a classic design scheme. Sliding doors are less expensive and give homes a modern look with plenty of light. Both should be installed by professionals to ensure no structural problems arise.