Patio doors are a great way to bring the outdoors in and create a seamless connection between home and garden.

But with so many styles to choose from, you may be wondering what is the best option for patio doors?

To help narrow down your options and find the perfect solution, we’ve answered this question in depth.

Considering your purpose

From boosting property value to opening up space, there are tons of benefits when it comes to installing patio doors. Once you know your priorities, you can start to pinpoint your choices by design and price. 

Do you want to be able to open them up wide to create a large indoor-outdoor space? Or are you looking for something energy-efficient to help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer? Perhaps you want to brighten up your interior by filtering extra natural light?

Whatever your goals, figuring out your motivation is a great place to begin.

Looking at the bigger picture

When choosing your external doors, it’s important to think about the climate in your area. If you live in a cold climate, choose doors that are well-insulated. If you live in a hot climate, opt for a design that’ll help to keep your home cool.

You should also consider the amount of sunlight your outside space gets. If it gets a lot of sunlight, you may want to choose patio doors with tinted glass or patio doors with frosted glass to prevent glare from the sun. Complementary blinds or shades would work well too.

Choosing the right style

There are three types of patio doors: sliding doors, French doors and bifold doors. All have different benefits and all are available in a range of versatile styles to suit any property type.

Sliding doors

This type of patio door is easiest to open and close. The sleek design acts as a great space-saver and they can be made to fit almost any space. Plus, the large panes of glass are the perfect way to soak up panoramic natural views. A good way to enjoy your garden and patio all year long, no matter the weather.

French Doors

A patio door style that instantly evokes class and elegance. French doors open outwards like traditional doors and close with a handle and hinges. Ideal for creating that secure home feeling. They can also be exceptionally energy-efficient. Due to the way they open, you’ll need to make sure you have plenty of space where you’re planning to install them.

Bifold Doors

This modern option is becoming increasingly popular, synonymous with the outdoor kitchens and homes with glass box corners seen on aspirational home makeover shows. External bifold doors fold up like an accordion, ideal for larger homes and more dramatic openings.

Selecting the right design elements

Some external doors have handles that you push or pull to open them, while others have sliding or folding mechanisms. But which is best for you? 

Consider how you’ll be using the doors. Do you need to let the dog out frequently or do your little ones need access to the garden? Choose an opening mechanism that’s safe and easy for everyone to use. And one that won’t take up too much space. 

The hardware on your patio doors is essential for both security and functionality. Keep in mind to look for options that are Secured by Design approved. This is the official police security initiative. They work to improve the security of buildings and their immediate surroundings to provide safe places to live, work, shop and visit.

Think about materials too. Patio doors can be made from a variety of materials including uPVC, wood, vinyl, aluminium and fibreglass. Wood is more traditional but requires a lot of maintenance. Modern options such as aluminium are an effective way to achieve the aesthetic of on-trend steel look doors without the hassle.

Patio doors for modern homes

With glass box extensions exploding in popularity, many homeowners are opting for modern patio doors to replicate the impressive ‘glass box home’ look. Sliding doors are the perfect choice for contemporary properties, offering unbroken sightlines and panoramic views. This comes with additional wellness benefits as studies say the additional natural light and fresh air helps to boost our wellbeing throughout the year.

Patio doors for traditional homes

If you live in a period property or a home with a more traditional facade, you may think that timber patio doors are the only way to get an authentic look. However Black Heritage Style Patio Doors are an alternative that pack serious design punch. The iconic black grid design evokes centuries of design heritage dating back to the industrial revolution. Additionally, the sturdy steel-look aluminium adds a secure, high quality feel.

Patio doors for neutral homes

The neutral home trend is everywhere right now. This means it isn’t too difficult to find patio doors that match the look. Keep your neutral home light and airy with white patio doors that blend into your walls for a more seamless finish. Searching for something low maintenance? Go for anthracite grey patio doors that are easy to keep clean and complement cool toned neutral colour palettes.

Matching up your interior doors

Create a cohesive finish throughout your property with internal doors that match your patio doors. For example, white patio doors match up best with white internal doors, but they also pair well with light coloured laminate doors or oak doors.

If you’ve chosen a design inspired by black Crittall patio doors, you may want to install black doors throughout your home. You could even choose glazed black doors for a more seamless heritage door look.

Getting support to find the right style

Watching the leaves change from green to gold. Enjoying a more alfresco lifestyle with barbecues and bonfire nights. Brightening up the inside of your property with natural light. Patio doors bring so much to your home and we don’t want you to miss out. Talk to our experts or browse our collection and buy patio doors online today.