Exterior French doors are a pair of hinged double doors with large glass panels, built to bring in as much daylight as possible. They work at a front entrance, on a patio or deck, and at a walkout basement, and few changes alter the look of a home as quickly. Here is what to know before you choose a set.
Why Homeowners Choose Exterior French Doors
French doors have an old-world, classic feel, which is why they are so often seen on elegant, stately homes. They also open wide, giving easy access between the house and the outdoor areas you use most.
The style is flexible. A traditional design suits a Colonial or Cape, while a cleaner, updated look fits a newer home. Either way, a set of French doors makes a strong statement at a front entryway or a patio. Aladdin Inc. installs them as part of our entry door and patio door service for Connecticut homeowners.
More Natural Light Indoors
One of the main reasons people choose double French doors is the light. Before electric lighting, windows and doors were picked specifically to stretch the amount of daylight in a home. That benefit still matters today. A wall that held a solid door or a small window becomes a wide span of glass, and the room behind it feels brighter and more open.
French doors also create a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces. With both doors open, a kitchen or family room connects directly to the deck or garden.
Material Options for French Doors
The basic design stays the same across styles, but the look can be classic, understated or modern. French doors can be made of durable materials such as steel or fiberglass. They are then finished to suit your home, with a smooth, modern texture or a classic woodgrain.
Both materials hold up well through New England seasons and need little upkeep compared with wood.
Curb Appeal and Resale Value
French doors are generally considered a high-end feature in real estate. They add character to a property and improve how it looks from the street and from the yard. Because many buyers look for them, they are a popular choice for homeowners who want an upgrade that helps a home’s resale appeal as well as their own daily enjoyment.
Customizing Your French Door Look
Aladdin Inc. offers a variety of design choices for French doors. Customization options from ProVia include decorative glass, grids, and designs made for walkout basements, so you can match the doors to the rest of your home.
If your French doors open onto a deck or patio, think about the space outside too. A retractable awning over the deck or patio shades the glass on hot afternoons and makes the outdoor area more comfortable. A storm door is worth considering for other entrances around the house that need extra weather protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between French doors and sliding patio doors?
French doors are hinged and swing open, usually as a pair, so the whole opening can be used. Sliding patio doors move along a track and need no swing space, but only part of the opening is clear at one time.
Can French doors be used as a front entrance?
Yes. A set of double French doors can serve as a front entry as well as a patio or garden door. Decorative glass can add privacy while still letting in light.
What are exterior French doors made of?
Steel and fiberglass are common, durable choices. Both can be finished with a smooth surface or a woodgrain texture.
See French Door Options for Your Home
If you are picturing French doors at your front entry, patio or walkout basement, we can show you styles, glass and grid options and measure the opening. Call Aladdin Inc. at (203) 776-9996 or send us a message to get started.