A new patio door can make a significant difference to the look and feel of your home. Not only is a patio door an appealing way to bring in natural light and fresh air, but it also increases the value of your home. However, as wonderful as it sounds, you have things to consider before installing a new patio door.

With so many choices of patio doors, you do not want to end up with a door you are not happy with. Choosing the right patio door is the key to enjoying your indoor-outdoor space for years to come. 

Below are some important factors to consider before installing a new patio door.

1. Door Style

Choosing your patio door style comes down to a matter of functionality and aesthetics. Three primary patio door designs exist, with many configurations in between. The primary designs include:

• Sliding doors: Sliding doors are common patio doors due to their ease of use and low maintenance. The sliding door is ideal for small spaces because its panels sit beside each other flush to the wall.
• French doors: French doors operate the same way as traditional doors but swing either way. French doors have hinges on both sides, opening like butterfly wings.
• Folding patio doors: Folding doors bring a unique look to your space by neatly folding away to give full access to the outside.

Besides the door style, other essential security considerations include the locking mechanisms and grill patterns.

2. Door Material 

Once you settle on a door style, your next concern should be the door material. Three common patio door materials are wood, vinyl, and fiberglass, each with distinct benefits and drawbacks:

• Wood: Wood is a classic option that can give your home a traditional but elegant look. Wood is naturally a good insulator. Therefore, a wooden patio door will save you money on your heating and cooling costs. Wooden doors and frames are easy to customize to any design you desire.
• Vinyl: Vinyl is a strong plastic material that makes the doors very durable. Vinyl plastic doors mimic luxurious door materials and offer broad customization options. On the downside, the vinyl is flammable.
• Fiberglass: Like vinyl, fiberglass is highly customizable and requires little to no maintenance. Moreover, the material is adaptable to temperature changes, making it highly energy-efficient.

The door material should have either a large panel or small glass panels to allow you to soak in the stunning visuals nature has to offer.

3. Energy Efficiency

When choosing a patio door, make energy efficiency a priority. Fiberglass and wood are often your most energy-efficient options. Aluminum material is the least energy-efficient and can negatively affect your utility bill. Based on door style, single-pane sliding doors are the least energy-efficient.

4. Durability

The material you settle for will dictate your door’s durability. Steel doors are tough and usually have the highest durability. Wooden doors are not as durable — they give in to scratches, and weather elements can damage them. Whichever material you decide on for your door, some regular maintenance can go a long way to improving its lifetime.

A patio door design can instantly transform your space. You have the advantage of several patio door choices. Therefore, do your homework and think things over before making any hasty decisions about patio doors for your home. As you weigh all of these considerations, you will be able to make the best possible choice for your needs and lifestyle.

Feel free to contact us today for more information about patio doors. We look forward to helping you find the perfect patio doors for you.