Patio Doors That Impress Your Thanksgiving Guests
Thanksgiving is about reflecting on how grateful we are for all that we have. While our thoughts should be focused on external things, we’d be lying if we said we didn’t enjoy the compliments we got from holiday guests about how beautiful the home is or how great the food was.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting your home to look beautiful. One aspect of home decor many people overlook is the patio doors. However, selecting the right patio doors can significantly enhance your home’s style and impress guests. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. Here, we’ll explore the various options available and give tips on choosing the best doors for your home.
Patio Door Basics
Before diving into the specific styles, let’s consider a few factors:
Space: The space available determines which styles will work best. Some doors require more clearance than others.
Aesthetics: The door should match your home’s overall style and the look you want for the patio.
Energy Efficiency: Look for doors with insulated glass and energy-efficient frames.
Functionality: Consider how often you’ll use the doors and whether access is a priority over style.
Popular Patio Door Styles
Sliding Patio Doors: Sliding doors are one of the most popular choices for people with modern homes because of their sleek style and space-saving functionality. Sliding doors have two or more panels, with at least one sliding horizontally along a track.
The pros of sliding doors is they’re excellent for rooms with limited space because they don’t require clearance to open. They provide more expansive glass areas to let in significant natural light and a clear view of the patio. However, these doors can be a challenge to seal tightly, which could impact energy efficiency, especially in extreme climates.
French Patio Doors: Another popular choice is French patio doors because they add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. They’re made from two hinged doors that open outwards or inwards from the center, creating a grand entry to the patio area.
The pros of French doors are their timeless and classic look, making them the perfect choice for traditional or rustic homes. The cons are that they require more clearance space to open, which may not work with smaller rooms or patios with limited space.
Pivot Doors: Pivot doors open on a central pivot hinge instead of side hinges. They offer a unique and striking look that could be a focal point for the room. The pros are they’re visually stunning and are sure to impress the guests. However, these doors can be expensive, and the design requires plenty of space for the door to pivot freely.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Patio Doors
Now that you’re familiar with the options let’s look at some tips to help you choose the best one for your home.
Match the Architectural Style: Choose a patio door that complements your home’s design. Sliding doors are best for contemporary homes while traditional French doors complement farmhouse home styles best.
Focus on Materials & Durability: Patio doors come in different materials, including wood, fiberglass, aluminum, and vinyl. Each has its own benefits. Wood provides a classic look but requires maintenance to keep it looking good. Aluminum and fiberglass are more durable, and vinyl is affordable and energy-efficient.
Energy-Efficiency: If energy efficiency is a priority, get doors with energy-efficient glass like Low-E (low emissivity). This reduces heat loss. Also, look for double—or triple-pane glass for better insulation, especially if you live in a climate with extreme temperatures.
Security Features: Older patio doors were definitely security risks, but today’s models are much better. Modern patio doors include secure locks and shatter-resistant glass.
Consider Your Lifestyle: Finally, think about how often you’ll use the doors. If you frequently entertain or the kids are constantly in and out, you’ll want doors that are easy to open and close.
The Glass Door Store is your number one shop for all things glass doors in Lakeland and Tampa, Florida. We have a huge selection of glass inserts, complete doors, and offer our own in-house professional installation. Request a FREE quote today!