As you contemplate how you want your outdoor living space to look, you envision a new entrance that appears updated and elegant. You’re struggling to decide between two options – patio doors or French doors. What are the pros and cons, and more importantly, which is cheaper? Keep reading to find out how to maximize your budget and get the results you truly want.
French Doors: The Good & the Bad
If a more elegant, classic, and timeless look is what you want, you cannot go wrong with choosing French doors. They offer many great benefits, but they also have a few potential problems you’ll want to think about before investing.
Pros
- They offer a beautiful structural design
- These doors are light, making them easy to open
- They possess a tight seal, which is great for energy efficiency
Cons
- They can take up more space because of how they open (outward or inward)
- They may not be the best option if you have a smaller area
- The hinges can become noisy if they’re not properly maintained
Patio Doors: The Advantages & Pitfalls
Patio doors (or sliding glass/bi-fold doors) offer a more modern look that appeals to many homeowners. Their sleek design and effortless functionality allow for an easy-to-use solution that is great for entertaining and letting plenty of natural light into your home.
Other advantages (and potential pitfalls) of these doors include:
Pros
- They take up less space because the doors move along a track instead of swinging open
- They let in natural light, which helps cut down on the amount of artificial lighting you need to use in your home
- They are more convenient should you live in an area prone to snow or wind, as they cannot be blocked
Cons
- They may prove less energy-efficient than French doors
- The track can become a hazard if you have small children who are crawling or you walk barefoot, as you might accidentally bump your foot or toe when going outside
- They are limited in customization when it comes to door handles, as they must be crafted a certain way
Which Option is Cheaper?
The cost of French doors versus patio or sliding glass ones varies based on the kind of features and customizations you choose; however, it is believed that French doors are often cheaper.
The reason is that sliding glass doors require a significant amount of glass, which can cause the price to increase quickly. Also, the tracks they run on will often lead to higher costs.
An important factor you may want to consider, though, is what you’re willing to invest in for the long run. Although the price of sliding glass and bi-fold doors may be higher, the type of glazing to improve energy efficiency may have you seeing noticeable cost savings in the future.
Ultimately, the choice is yours, but if you need help to determine which option will best align with your budget, don’t hesitate to reach out to a licensed professional. Their expertise can guide you in the right direction and help you avoid breaking the bank.
About Adooring Designs
Adooring Designs of Dallas consists of skilled craftsmen and professionals who know how to create one-of-a-kind doors. Whether it’s the entryway you need help with or patio doors for your outdoor living space, we can provide the knowledge and experience that will lead to beautiful results that are attainable within your budget. Contact us via our website or call (817) 745-0522 to schedule your free in-home estimate and discover whether patio or French doors are right for you.