Double French patio doors offer numerous benefits. They provide ample natural light, creating bright and airy interiors. And the expansive glass panels blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing us to bask in the changing seasons. But are French doors energy efficient? And are French doors and patio doors the same thing?
What are French Doors?
A French door is a type of patio door. This essentially means French doors are the same as patio doors.
Typical French doors are a more traditional style of patio doors. They’re basically double doors that open via a hinge mechanism and usually feature double glazing. Available in white, grey, black and bespoke colourways, it’s super-easy to find a design to suit your property.
So, should French patio doors swing in or out? French doors generally open outwards as standard, but you can get them installed to open inwards if you prefer.
Are French Patio Doors Energy Efficient?
French patio doors can be energy-efficient when designed and installed correctly. Modern French doors often feature double or triple-glazed glass panes with low-E coatings to reduce heat loss.
Additionally, energy-efficient frames made from materials like uPVC or thermally broken aluminium can further improve insulation. While the large glass areas of French doors may seem counterintuitive for energy efficiency, these advancements in technology ensure that they can contribute to a well-insulated home. This helps to reduce energy consumption and lower heating and cooling costs.
When you buy French patio doors online, look at the thermal efficiency or U Value on offer (the lower the value, the better the performance). This is covered by Part L of the Building Regulations.
Ensure your French double glazed doors with toughened glass units comply with BSE 12600 and 12150. Again these are a must for both safety and performance (look for the toughened glass mark usually in the corner of the glass unit).
You also need to consider ventilation requirements of the property and what is offered with the product, in compliance with Part F of the UK Building Regulations.
Why do People Like French Doors?
French patio doors, with their expansive glass panels and elegant frames, have long been a popular choice for homeowners seeking to bring the outdoors in. These classic doors continue to be a stylish and functional addition to modern homes, complementing current interior design and architectural trends.
The Benefits of French Patio Doors
With their blend of enduring elegance and modern functionality, French patio doors are the ultimate choice if your goal is to curate a beautiful and inviting space that feels truly connected to the great outdoors.
Enhanced Natural Light
French doors maximise natural light, creating bright and airy interiors. This abundance of daylight can improve mood, reduce energy consumption and make spaces feel larger.
Improved Indoor-Outdoor Flow
The expansive glass panels of French doors blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. This seamless transition encourages a more nature-focused lifestyle
Increased Home Value
French doors can potentially enhance a home’s kerb appeal and overall value. They’re seen as a luxurious and desirable feature by many potential buyers.
Architectural Appeal
French doors bring sophistication to any home’s architecture. Their versatile design complements a variety of architectural styles, from traditional to contemporary.
uPVC French Doors or Aluminium French Doors?
Usually, uPVC is cheaper and more low maintenance than aluminium.
Modern Upvc French patio doors can look slightly thicker, but the trade off is that they require minimal upkeep but do need occasional cleaning. This type of French door offers good thermal insulation and is easy to install. Carve out time to regularly inspect your uPVC doors for fading and performance to get the most out of them long term.
Chic Aluminium French doors are more expensive and heavier to install but the upshot is that they’re strong and sturdy. Ideal if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions.
They offer a sleek and modern look with endless customisable finishes. Aluminium frames can be powder-coated in a range of colours. If looked after correctly, they can last for decades which makes them excellent value for money.
What are the Features of French Doors?
| Multi point locks | A must on French doors, with either 3 point or 5 point locks locking the doors and frames together when closed. |
| Cover splines | French doors should be supplied ideally with cover splines to cover the rebate gap between the doors where they meet. This is the weakest point on a French door. |
| Lock barrels | All lock barrels should be supplied with “anti bump” cylinders for extra security. |
Tips for Choosing the Best French Patio Doors
Look for French patio doors supplied with opening restrictors or if not, fit some yourself. This prevents damage caused by the doors being blown open in the wind – a common problem in British weather.
For best performance, your patio doors need to have toughened double glazing and ideally need to be PAS 24 rated. This means they must pass a variety of tests to ensure they meet required performance standards.
Essential French Patio Door Alternatives
Want to explore different options? Other types of patio doors include external glass sliding doors (which glide open horizontally on a track and have slimmer frames) and bifold doors or ‘folding doors’ which fold close in a concertina shape.
The opening style is the main difference between different types of patio doors. You can also buy single patio doors and double patio doors which are ideally suited to smaller openings.
Industrial style black patio doors and anthracite grey patio doors are two leading trends to look out for when planning a home exterior refresh.
| General Security Features to Look For in Patio Doors |
| Multipoint lock with security hooks to prevent the doors being levered open. |
| Lockable drop bolts are a great addition on the sliding leaf. |
| Anti lift devices on the doors to prevent them being forced upwards and lifted off their sliding mechanism. |
| Lockable anti bump cylinder lock to prevent the barrel being forced. |
Modern French Patio Doors vs. Sliding Doors
Space considerations
External French doors require more space in front of them to swing open fully, which can be a limitation in smaller spaces. They can also block furniture placement near the doorway. Alternatives such as sliding glass doors don’t require swing space, making them ideal for smaller patios or decks. They also allow for more flexible furniture arrangements.
Aesthetics and interior design
French doors offer a classic design and effortlessly refined look that dials up the charm and character. They’re often associated with European architectural styles. Sliding doors have a more streamlined look that complements contemporary homes. They provide unobstructed views of the outdoors thanks to their large glass panels.
Modern Patio Door Ideas and Trends
Biophilic Design
French doors align perfectly with the biophilic design trend, which incorporates natural elements into interior spaces. By bringing in natural light and views of the outdoors, French doors can potentially help reduce stress and improve wellbeing.
Minimalist Aesthetic
The clean lines and minimalist design of French doors complement the modern minimalist aesthetic. Pair them with with sleek hardware and frameless glass for a sleek and sophisticated look.
Maximalist Interiors
French doors enhance maximalist interiors by providing a dramatic backdrop for bold patterns, vivid colours and eclectic furnishings. The contrast between the simplicity of the doors and the vibrancy of the interior décor makes for a visually striking effect.
Small Patio Door Ideas
Bring the outdoors in whatever the size of your garden. Opt for slimline French doors using smaller panels or a single panel with sidelights. An effective solution for balcony gardens or small decking areas.
Exterior Patio Door Trends in Detail
Upcoming exterior patio door trends lean towards statement-making designs with larger glass panels and slim frames, establishing an effortless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. This trend is driven by the desire for open, airy living environments and better natural light.
In terms of materials, aluminium and uPVC remain popular choices for their durability and low-maintenance properties. Furthermore, smart technology is being integrated into patio doors, allowing for automated opening and closing, remote control, and improved security features.
Learn more about smart home security and garden privacy. Complement your home exterior with essential conservatory ideas, kerb appeal tips and stylish patio door window treatments for a complete property revamp that works.
Can French Doors be Custom Made?
Yes! Choosing made to measure French patio doors offers numerous advantages for home renovations or property developments.
Firstly, they ensure a perfect fit, eliminating gaps and improving energy efficiency. Secondly, they allow for customisation, enabling you to select specific dimensions, materials and finishes to match your unique style and architectural preferences. This personalisation enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home.
Our made to measure patio doors service is ideal for accommodating non-standard openings. Perfect for older properties or unique architectural designs. By investing in made to measure French patio doors, you can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency, security and hopefully the overall value.
How to Use Patio Doors as Design Elements
From boosting natural light levels around your home to making an impressive visual statement, doors are often the missing piece in an interior design puzzle.
This means it’s a good idea to imagine how your French doors could work with the other doors in your home to create even more design impact…
Achieve a Grand Designs style ‘glass box extension’ look with a made to measure glass door that offers panoramic views. Add authenticity to a period property with rustic oak doors that evoke charm and character. Infuse natural textures with on-trend sliding barn doors.
Get inspired to be innovative. Whatever your vision, make it a reality with your own unique combination of exterior French doors and internal doors.
How to Choose Patio Doors
Whether your style is sleek quiet luxury or cosy cottagecore, select your designs with total confidence. Take a look at our guide which reveals how to match your patio doors to your aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for patio doors for heritage properties or are on the hunt for patio doors for modern homes, we’ve got all the inspiration you need.
Double French Patio Door Benefits
A Final Summary
Home security
Both French and other types of patio doors can be equipped with a multi point locking mechanism and toughened safety glass for additional security.
Ventilation
French doors can be opened fully to allow for maximum ventilation, while sliding patio doors or bifold doors typically only open to half their width.
Energy efficiency
All patio doors can be manufactured with energy efficient glass to help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Great for reducing those heating bills too.
Buy French Patio Doors with Glass Online
The Easy Way
Find French patio doors to suit you in just a few clicks. Browse trending designs online or talk to our team about made to measure patio doors. Our high quality yet cheap French patio doors cost less than you think and are available for super-fast delivery too. Don’t wait, discover special offers and secure your order today.
