Sliding vs. French Patio Doors: Key Differences

Sliding vs. French Patio Doors: Key Differences

Our French and sliding patio doors come with enough customization options to cover just about every design requirement a homeowner could have. We discuss the fundamental differences between these two patio door styles below.

Sliding vs. French Patio Doors: Key Differences

Sliding Patio Doors

Sliding patio doors are often associated with contemporary architecture because they typically feature minimalist designs like grille-less glass and solid frame colors. Homeowners who have limited indoor space will appreciate the space-saving design of sliding doors, as well as the ability to choose bigger door sizes, thanks to a track system that carries most of the door sashes’ weight.

Renewal by Andersen® sliding patio doors feature Andersen-designed tracks that have adjustable, self-lubricating rollers that use steel wheels with ball bearings. This track system is designed to provide smooth operation that feels like the door is gliding on air despite the weight of the door sashes.

Our Perma-Shield® and Narroline® frame options feature exceptional strength, allowing us to build slimmer frames, which means more significant glass areas and better views. Also, these frames feature superior insulation that complements our energy-efficient High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass.

French Patio Doors

For homes with traditional architecture, French doors are the ideal patio door design. They feature symmetrical grilles, natural finishes and hinged sashes that open from the middle. French patio doors swing open and therefore require “swing space” to operate. As such, they work best in areas where floor space is not limited.

Our Frenchwood® patio doors are available with all these features and more. Traditional French doors have individual glass pieces set in the grilles, but ours have one dual-panel High-Performance Low-E4 glass per sash, with the grilles installed between or on the glass. This helps improve energy efficiency. 

In addition to our in-swinging option, we also offer our French patio doors as out-swinging doors, as well as a sliding French door option, to let you maximize the use of your indoor space. Plus, our Frenchwood patio doors are available in stainable pine, oak and maple interior finishes, making them easier to match with your existing wood decor and trim.

Which patio door style is best for your home? Our expert consultants will be happy to help you find out. Call Renewal by Andersen® of Cincinnati today at (866) 609-5033 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-hassle consultation. We serve many areas in and near Cincinnati, OH.

Previous ArticleThe Benefits of Investing in a Patio Door Next ArticleTop Reasons to Choose Sliding Windows