Adding patio doors to your home opens up interior spaces and allows natural light to shine through. It also adds style and value to your property.
According to the Lifestory Research 2024 America’s Most Trusted Patio Door Study, Andersen and JELD-WEN top the list of trusted brands for their patio doors. They offer a wide selection of styles and materials.
Styles
Patio doors should blend seamlessly with your home’s design elements and architectural style. They also need to provide easy access to outdoor spaces while keeping rain, snow, and ice out of the house.
For example, you might choose a hinged door to match your front door or a sliding model that maximizes opening space. You can also find doors with built-in blinds and grids between the double panes for added energy efficiency.
If you live in an area prone to severe weather, consider the MasterPiece Impact Hinged Patio Door from Andersen. It features fiberglass construction for durability and low maintenance, and the glass is double-paned and argon-filled (which is denser than air) to improve thermal insulation. It comes with a full warranty and includes all hardware, including a lock. However, installation might be challenging for those without DIY experience. This door also requires regular lubrication with silicone or nonstick lubricants to prevent corrosion and gumminess over time.
Materials
Patio doors that are crafted from durable materials like vinyl, wood, and steel can improve your home’s style and energy efficiency for years to come. They also require minimal maintenance compared to other door materials. A simple wipe of the frame and tracks, occasional lubrication with silicone-based products, and a routine check for loose hardware will extend their lifespan.
Fiberglass is an attractive choice for homeowners who want a patio door that looks like wood without the hassles of sanding and refinishing. This material is also durable and insulating. Its smooth surface can be wiped clean, making it easier to keep clean than wood surfaces.
If you live in an area prone to severe weather, look for impact-resistant patio doors like the MasterPiece Fiberglass Hinged Patio Door with Flush Glazed Glass. This model offers the best blend of style, durability, and energy efficiency. It is available in both in-swing and out-swing options, and its double-paned glass is filled with argon gas — which is denser than air — for better thermal insulation.
Installation
There’s a lot to think about when choosing the right doors for your home, and proper installation is vital. MI Authorized Dealers can help ensure your new doors are properly sized to fit, and that they operate smoothly and effectively. This is especially important when replacing dated patio doors.
French patio doors are a good choice for smaller openings, as they can be opened individually or together to create a wide entrance. They also provide a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces. You can choose between glazed and unglazed doors, as well as a variety of hardware options.
Gliding patio doors are another popular option. They are a convenient way to move large amounts of air, and they can be fitted with blinds or grids to control sunlight. They’re easy to maintain, and only require a periodic wipe down with a damp cloth. You can even add a lubricant to prevent rust or corrosion.
Security
Although patio doors are a beautiful addition to any home, the wide expanses of glass can make them more vulnerable to break-ins. Burglars use a variety of tactics to breach homes including breaking the glass and using tools to remove the door from the track. One of the most effective ways to protect your home is by adding a blocking pin to the track of your sliding patio doors. This will prevent a burglar from lifting the door and sliding it out of the frame.
Upgrading your patio doors is an investment that should not be taken lightly. With the right knowledge, you can find a door that offers style and functionality while protecting your home. To learn more, contact us today to schedule a free consultation for your Ferndale MI home. US Window & Door will assist you every step of the way. From design to installation, we are the go-to source for all your patio doors needs.