French Style Patio Doors vs. Gliding Patio Doors: Which is Better?

The two most common styles of patio doors are gliding (or sliding) and French Style Patio Doors. Many of our clients come to us, wanting to replace their patio doors, but unsure if they want to stick with the same style they have or change to a different one. When they ask our advice on which style is better—gliding patio doors or French style patio doors—we tell them it depends on their situation. If you’re trying to choose which style you prefer, here are the pros and cons of each to help you decide.

Gliding (or Sliding) Patio Doors: Pros and Cons

What are gliding patio doors? 

As the name implies, gliding patio doors slide open and closed horizontally along a track. If they are located near furniture or other obstructions, this style is a good choice because they don’t take up any space inside or outside the room. Another advantage to gliding doors is that they are much easier to adjust than French doors when the house foundation experiences shifting (which is a frustrating problem for many San Antonio homeowners). They have a more contemporary look for the modern-themed home, and they are also typically less expensive than French doors.  With the multipoint locking system engaged, these doors are also much more secure than they used to be.

Disadvantages of gliding patio doors

There are cases when this style is not the best choice for your home, however. If you need an extra-large opening for moving furniture or hosting parties with a lot of people coming in and out at once, this gliding patio door style probably won’t give you enough space. If your home is older or just has a more classic design, this modern look may not fit with the rest of the house. It also has a more pronounced threshold because of the track it slides on, which is a potential tripping hazard.

French Style Patio Doors: Pros and Cons

What are french patio doors? 

French patio doors are a type of hinged door that provides a wide opening to your patio or outdoor living area. They are often composed of two separate door panels that swing open from the center, with each panel having a large glass panel that allows natural light to enter your home.

French patio doors can be made of a variety of materials, including wood, fiberglass, or vinyl, and can be designed to match the architectural style of your home. They typically feature decorative grilles or mullions, which are strips of material that divide the glass panes into smaller sections for aesthetic appeal.

French patio doors are a popular choice for homeowners who want to create an elegant and inviting transition between their indoor and outdoor living spaces. They provide a wide opening for easy access to your patio or deck, and the large glass panels allow for plenty of natural light to enter your home.

French style patio doors open and close like regular doors on hinges. Typically one panel will be the active one that you use regularly, and the other panel can be locked into place as the passive side. These patio doors give a beautiful, classic look to the room they’re in. The multipoint locking system (see image above) has greatly improved their security over the years. They also have the advantage of a very wide opening when both panels are fully opened, perfect for moving large furniture or allowing heavy traffic in and out of the room. Also, with no track to slide on, their threshold sits at a much lower level, which is a bit easier to step over.

Disadvantages of french patio doors

There are some disadvantages to this style, however, that may not make it a great fit for your home. For one thing, they require floor space for opening and closing that you don’t have to worry about with gliding patio doors. They are also much harder to adjust when the home’s foundation shifts (again, this can be a issue that many of us face here in South Texas). French doors are generally more expensive than gliding patio doors, as well.

Do french stlye patio doors cost more than sliding patio doors? 

In general, French style patio doors tend to be more expensive than sliding patio doors. This is because French patio doors are typically made of higher quality materials, such as wood or fiberglass, and require more complex hardware and installation. French patio doors also often feature decorative elements, such as grilles or mullions, which add to the overall cost.

Sliding patio doors, on the other hand, are typically made of less expensive materials such as vinyl or aluminum, and require simpler hardware and installation. They also generally have fewer decorative elements and a simpler design, which reduces the overall cost.

That being said, the exact cost of both types of patio doors will depend on various factors such as the size, materials, and features of the doors. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional to get an accurate estimate for your specific needs and budget.

In closing