Choosing patio doors comes down to four things: how you want the door to open, how much space you have, which material suits your home’s exposure to the weather, and the style of the house. There is no single door that is right for every Connecticut home, but a few simple guidelines will narrow the options quickly.
Choosing Patio Doors by How They Open
Start with the way the door operates, because it affects everything else. Aladdin installs entry doors and patio doors, and the first question we talk through with homeowners is usually sliding or swinging.
Sliding Glass Doors
Sliding doors move along a track, so they need no floor space inside or out. That makes them a good fit when furniture sits near the opening or the deck is narrow. They offer large panes of glass, plenty of natural light, and a screen that lets air flow through on a warm summer day.
French Doors
French doors are hinged and swing open. They have a classic look, with framed glass that suits traditional homes, and they still bring in a lot of light. They need clear space to swing, so check whether the doors would open in or out and what would be in their path.
Think About Size, Light and Everyday Use
Consider how wide an opening you need and how much glass you want. A wider door gives a better view and more daylight. Think about how the door will be used day to day as well: carrying food out to the grill, letting pets in and out, or moving furniture between the house and the patio.
If you have young children, look at the locking hardware and how easily the door opens and closes from inside and outside. Ask about the glass, too. Patio doors use safety glass, and your installer can explain the options and make sure the door meets local building code.
Pick a Material That Suits Your Home
Patio doors are available with wood, steel and fiberglass construction, and each material has its own advantages.
Wood is a good choice if you want natural warmth and a traditional look. It needs more upkeep than the other materials to keep it protected from moisture.
Steel is strong and durable, with a clean appearance that takes paint well.
Fiberglass can look like real wood without the same maintenance. It comes in styles that mimic wood grain, it will not warp or rot, and it is energy efficient. If your patio is exposed to a lot of sun, wind and rain, fiberglass may be a better choice than wood or steel.
For a broader look at door materials, see our post on selecting the perfect exterior door for your home.
Match the Style of the House
Because patio doors are large and tall, they become a focal point of the room and of the back of the house. Think about the look you want. Do you prefer clean lines and big, uninterrupted glass, or something more detailed with divided panes?
Try to keep the patio door consistent with your windows and with the front of the home. If you are also updating the front, our article on entry door replacement in Connecticut covers that side of the project.
Plan for Sun and Shade
All that glass lets in sunlight, which is welcome in January and less so in July. If your patio door faces south or west, shade outside the door keeps the room cooler and makes the patio more comfortable. A retractable awning over the deck or patio lets you choose sun or shade as the day changes, and a patio cover gives permanent protection from sun and rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are sliding or French patio doors better?
Neither is better in every case. Sliding doors save space and offer the most glass. French doors have a traditional look and a wide, open passage when both doors are open. Space around the opening is usually the deciding factor.
Which patio door material needs the least maintenance?
Fiberglass is a low-maintenance choice because it will not warp or rot. Wood needs the most regular care.
Do patio doors help with energy efficiency?
A new patio door that seals tightly can reduce drafts compared with an old, worn door. It also brings in natural light, which can cut down on the need for lamps during the day.
Do patio doors give enough privacy?
Yes. Blinds, shades or curtains give you privacy when you want it while still letting you enjoy the light and the view the rest of the time.
Talk to Aladdin About Patio Doors
If you would like help choosing patio doors for your home, contact Aladdin for a free quote or call (203) 776-9996. We will look at your opening, talk through styles and materials, and give you a price for installation.