Sliding Doors vs French Doors, Which Is Right For You?

When it comes to home improvement, a door replacement is where you're going to get the most bang for your buck. Doors will add about as much to the value of your home as they cost to purchase and install. But which doors are right for you? Here's what you need to know before you invest in new doors, courtesy of your friends at Window Nation.

Better lighting?

For folks who want a light and open living space, there was a time when we would have suggested sliding glass doors to get that light exposure. But there are so many options for French doors now that you can get as much window real estate as you need. Whether you want two panes of glass, or twenty-four, French doors can make it work.

More security?

When it comes to security, both of these doors can come with solid protection, and have features that will keep those burglars out. But let's face it, in most cases your sliding glass door is going to be the weaker choice if security is a concern.

Use of space?

This is where the big difference between these two types of doors can really be seen. When you have French doors, there is a swing that you have to deal with. If your doors will be connecting two spaces that have furniture in them, it is best to use a sliding door. With french doors, you're going to have the swing of the doors competing for space where furniture will be--or should be. This can severely impact the usability of a room. Here is an example:

Let's say you have a dining room next to a small patio. If you install French doors so they pull in, they will be competing with the chairs and the dining room table. If you have them pushing out, they will be entering into the space where your patio furniture is, making things awkward. This is just not the right place to have French doors. Sliding doors will give you the open look you want without that awkward swing issue.

Access?

This is where those French doors are going to shine. If you want to move something large through sliding doors, you're going to have to take them out. French doors quickly give you a large opening to move through. That large opening is also nice if you have a large number of guests moving back and forth between two rooms. French doors really open things up.

When you're ready to add stylish new doors to your living space, stop by Window Nation and see our incredible selection. We'll help you pick out the doors that are right for you.