Best Patio Doors for Your Home

Knowing the standard patio door sizes will help you narrow down your choices. Patio doors can range in size according to type and brand. The standard width for a French or sliding glass patio door is 72 inches and the average height is 80 inches. Depending on the brand, most patio doors fall in the following sizes:

• 72 inches x 80 inches
• 60 inches x 80 inches
• 72 inches x 96 inches
• 96 inches x 81 inches

Tip: Even if you're replacing an existing patio door, take careful measurements before shopping for your new door. Door frames can shift and change.

Patio doors are a stylish gateway between the indoors and outdoors. Typically, they’re installed on the back of a home and lead to a deck or backyard. There are many styles of patio doors. The three most common ones are French, sliding and folding. Each type has its own look and features, pros and cons. One may provide more ventilation than another. Another may require more maintenance or a higher investment. Take a close look at your home style, desired materials, space and budget to choose the best option for you.

French patio doors or hinge doors are characterized by their classic lines and one or more glass panels. These panels can both be open or one of the doors can be fixed in place. French patio doors offer decorative grilles with simple or complex patterns, arched tops and other options. If you live in an area with high winds, this style of door is ideal. The harder the wind blows against them, the tighter the seal they make when pressed against the jamb.

When ordering a French or hinged patio door, you'll need to know the "handedness" of the door. An easy way to do this is to:

• Open the door and stand in the doorframe with your back along the hinges.
• If the hand by the doorknob is your right, it's a right-handed door.
• If the hand by the doorknob is your left, you have a left-handed door.

Tip: Like other exterior doors, patio doors swing into a room rather than out. Keep this in mind when placing furniture or accessories nearby.

Gliding or sliding patio doors have straight, simple lines that lend a room a contemporary look. The best sliding glass doors provide increased air flow and let in the maximum amount of light. Sliding patio doors require less space than other types so they’re a good choice for small spaces.

Folding patio doors provide a different transition between your indoor and outdoor space. They feature a sliding track that allows them to fold back out of the way. Folding patio doors are good for small spaces like balconies. They also provide an unobstructed view between your living area and patio space.

Patio doors are made from wood, aluminum, vinyl, steel and fiberglass. Each one offers a combination of unique benefits. Patio doors can have the elegance of wood on the interior side and the weather-resistant strength of vinyl, aluminum or steel on the exterior side.

Wood patio doors are a common choice for hinged or French patio doors.

• Pros: classic architectural appeal, variety of options, decorative glass options
• Cons: higher upfront investment, requires more maintenance than other types

Vinyl is the most used material for patio doors.

• Pros: low upkeep, durable, budget friendly
• Cons: can warp and crack, less energy efficient

Aluminum sliding patio doors have a sleek, contemporary look.

• Pros: resists mildew, low maintenance, durable, decorative options
• Cons: higher upfront investment, retains moisture, can rust

Steel patio doors are long-lasting, energy efficient and stand up to the elements.

• Pros: durable, resists warping, ideal for added security, available in finishes
• Cons: higher upfront investment, heavier weight, more maintenance required

Fiberglass patio doors offer a good balance of durability and beauty.

• Pros: resists dents, warping and peeling, low maintenance, can be stained or painted
• Cons: higher upfront investment, can damage easily, may need professional repair

Energy efficiency is a major concern when it comes to patio doors. Most have large sections of glass. Although glass is a poor insulator, the best sliding glass doors feature quality metal, fiberglass or wood cladding.

Air leakage around the parameter of the door can account for 30 percent to 40 percent of a home's energy loss. Make sure the patio door fits and seals tightly to all areas of the jamb. If not, check for bends in the door and replace it.

Weather stripping also seals gaps around doors and reduces the escape of heat and air conditioning from a home.

• Seal gaps around doors with sponge, foam, felt, vinyl or magnetic weather-stripping materials.
• Damaged weather stripping can greatly increase energy loss around a door.
• Check the weather stripping annually and replace it as necessary.

Hardware comes in a variety of finishes, including brass, chrome, bronze, nickel and white to match your decor. Consider coordinating your door hardware with the metallic finishes featured on your home lighting and the existing hardware throughout the space.

Since patio doors are often behind your home or on its side, your hardware is also an important part of security. For example, sliding doors can be lifted off their tracks, so for added security:

• Use dual locking hardware on hinged and sliding doors.
• Install bolts through the door or apply a security bar with a locking device.
• Hang vertical blinds, panel track blinds or blinds between the glass for more privacy.

The best patio doors will make your living space feel brighter and more spacious. They’ll also give you a panoramic view of your deck, balcony or garden. When picking out your patio doors, consider options such as weather stripping, security and decorative hardware. Here’s a few other things to think about as you shop:

• Lifestyle. If you have a large family or pets, you’ll need a door that’ll stand up to foot traffic. If you have little time for maintenance, choose an option that’s virtually carefree.
• Budget. Patio doors come in as many price points as material. Decide what matters most to you to narrow down your options and cost. More energy efficient options cut down on costs in the long run. So do materials that last longer.
• Style. Do you prefer a modern look or something ornate and traditional? A lot of natural light or a budget-friendly option for a small space?