Adding a new home feature shouldn’t be considered on a whim, especially with something as significant as external patio doors. That’s because there are several distinct patio door options to choose from. Read on for a breakdown on the different types of patio doors for all types of homes.
What Are the 3 Main Types of External Patio Doors?
Patio doors come in three types, each offering unique functions and aesthetics:
- Sliding patio doors – Horizontally sliding glass panels that save ample space.
- Bi-fold patio doors – Folding like an accordion, these operate on hinges and stack up against each other.
- French patio doors – A classic design where two doors open out towards your patio or garden.
Sliding Patio Doors
External sliding patio doors are large glass doors that glide effortlessly horizontally along a track, allowing seamless access between indoor and outdoor spaces. They operate by sliding one panel over the other and offer a sleek, modern aesthetic and maximise natural light. Homes will benefit from sliding patio doors thanks to a space-saving design, wide windows for open views of the outdoors and improved ventilation.
These are one of the best patio door types for those looking for elevated energy efficiency, as they have advanced insulated properties that help maintain indoor temperatures. They come in different designs, with the most common consisting of two to three panels, either all sliding one way or with one panel doing the Cha Cha Slide to the left and the other sliding to the right.
There is also the option, and favoured by many, to get high-quality sliding doors with a very slim sightline. This gives the illusion of a single pane, granting homeowners one of the best views and enhanced energy efficiency.
Advantages of External Sliding Patio Doors
- Save space
- Let natural light fill your home
- Versatile sliding preferences
- Easy to use
Disadvantages of External Sliding Patio Doors
- They require more maintenance
- Seals can come loose quickly
- Damaged easily from strong winds and rainfall
French Patio Doors
The second type of external patio doors available, and rather popular, are French patio doors. French doors can either open inward or outward and offer a traditional, classic and timeless appeal to a home. French doors feature large glass panes to allow natural light and unobstructed views of outdoor spaces. They create wide entrances and improve airflow when both doors are open. They elegantly connect living spaces to gardens, patios and even balconies, ultimately enhancing the overall ambience and functionality of a living space, effortlessly blending charm with practicality.
Advantages of French Patio Doors
- Perfect for smaller homes with limited space
- Easy to open and close
- Allow natural light and air to flow
Disadvantages of French Patio Doors
- Require frequent maintenance
- Varying prices on material types
Bi-Fold Patio Doors
The third contender for types of external patio doors is Bi-fold doors which consist of multiple panels that fold and stack neatly to one side, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. These are one of the most modern choices on the market and are ideal for homeowners looking for wide-open spaces for their patio areas. Their design saves huge amounts of interior and exterior space and provides flexibility in their opening functionality. Bi-fold external patio doors add modern aesthetics to homes and can be installed as one big folding door or have them separated and have the centres meet in the middle.
Advantages of Bi-Fold Patio Doors
- Modern aesthetics
- Space saving
- Customised configurations
- Maximised opening
Disadvantages of Bi-Fold Patio Doors
- Difficult to install
- Privacy concerns
- Can be hard to open and close
- Often require weather sealing
Key Considerations When Looking to Buy a Patio Door
Now that you know the patio door options available, it’s time to go over the key considerations when looking to buy one. With so much choice of colour and material out there, and each door type offering different pros and cons, it can be a challenge to find the ideal style you want to complement your home.
We’ve got the key considerations you need to make when purchasing external patio doors.
Material
Wood, vinyl, aluminium, fibreglass, steel, UPVC– which do you choose? Wood provides a classic look, vinyl is low maintenance, aluminium is highly durable, and fibreglass offers excellent insulation. Consider not just the aesthetic but also how much upkeep you’ll have to perform, such as cleaning the tracks on sliding doors and wiping down the frames, ridges, grooves and joints.
Cost
Budget is also key, with prices varying based on material, style and size. Second-hand options may be cheaper, with many in the Green Doors collection having only recently been installed for around a year, so you can save whilst knowing used options will stay functional for decades.
Style
Style, of course, is all down to personal preference but you won’t want to pair a sleek and simple modern design with a traditional house or a classic style patio door with a new build. There are different types of patio doors out there, so fortunately there’s a sure-fire style for everyone.
But where can you go for the best patio doors?
Looking To Buy a Patio Door? Check Out Our Range of External Patio Doors Today!
Green Doors is a leading supplier of new and second-hand patio doors, front doors, back doors windows and more. We have a plethora of types of patio doors, many in grade A condition and varying materials. Explore our doors today and get in touch with us by calling 01582 343534 or fill in our contact form.
