If you are looking at new windows and doors for your home and have patio doors, it is also worth considering upgrading them, especially if they are of any age. So if you are considering new uPVC or aluminium windows and doors, it is worth looking at also upgrading the doors that lead out to the patio. But what styles are available?

Styles of door

A general rule about patio doors is that they have plenty of glass and let lots of light into the room beyond. This is the main reason that, when people are looking at these styles, they are upgrading to double glazing for replacement windows and doors – because otherwise, the patio door can let a lot of heat out.

French doors

French doors are the classic style of door leading to a patio or garden area and feature two doors that open from the centre and are hinged to each side of the door frame. They can open inwards but most choose to open outwards. They offer the advantage of opening just one door to get access to the garden and have multiple smaller windows rather than a single large panel, reducing the chance of needing large scale window repair.

Bi-fold doors

Bi-fold doors are a popular style across Hampshire because they take up less room than a traditional French door. These styles of door fold up like an accordion and feature two panels, hinged in the centre. You can also get tri-fold (three) or multiple panel doors for bigger spaces. They have tracks on the floor that they run along to keep them in place allowing them to be opened and closed easily and smoothly.

Sliding doors

Sliding doors became popular for things like wardrobes but have made it to the patio now and are a great space saver, as long as you have the room to slide them out of the way. Like the bi-fold door, they run on a track to keep them in place and can be opened a little or all the way. There are even styles where you can slide them into ‘pockets’ so they vanish entirely, a popular option for areas leading to conservatories or orangeries where you might want to leave the door open most of the time.

Getting the right patio doors

There are a few different ways to choose the right patio door. For example, you can match it up with the doors and windows on the house. Or you can tie it in with the skylight such as the Skypod range, tying into the look of the space.

Consider the insulation properties of the door as well. Double glazing definitely ranks top for this and ensures the least heat escapes from the room. Maintenance is also a consideration – materials such as uPVC and aluminium take very little maintenance apart from a basic clean. Also, think about the ease of repair – double glazing repair isn’t common as these styles of door have a long lifespan, but it is also relatively simple for a good quality window installer to handle for you.