With so many options, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t have a stylish patio door! Imagine impressing visitors right out the gate, or the sense of pride from having stylish doors to complement your stylish home. Plus, stylish doors mean better curb appeal.
How do you pick a beautiful patio door? Here are 3 tips.
Material
Primarily, your choice of material sets the tone for your patio door’s style, durability, and upkeep as it’s the canvas upon which your door’s aesthetics and functionality are built.
Luckily, you have options:
- You want to go with wood if you’re aiming for a timeless, classic look, which you can stain or paint to match your home’s decor
- Often chosen for its low maintenance and cost-effectiveness, vinyl is an option with various finishes and colors available
- Fiberglass means resistance to harsh weather and easy maintenance. Plus it can mimic the appearance of wood or provide a modern finish
- If you’re aiming for a sleek and modern design, aluminum is often the material of choice. However, it may require thermal breaks for enhanced energy efficiency.
Design
The design of your patio door is the visual centerpiece; it can either enhance both your outdoor and indoor spaces or stick out like a sore thumb.
What are your options? Well:
- Sliding doors are an excellent choice when aiming for a clean and modern look. They feature large glass panels that let in ample light and provide unobstructed views
- French doors are a classic and elegant choice, perfect for traditional or cottage-style homes, consisting of double doors that swing open gracefully
- Bifold doors are a more contemporary option, often used to create a dramatic open space. They are particularly well-suited for modern home designs
Energy Efficiency
Aesthetics ties into energy efficiency because a well-designed, stylish door can incorporate energy-efficient features seamlessly; investing in an energy-efficient patio door is a means to enjoy long-term savings on utility bills while having a beautiful home.
How do you combine the two? Try:
- Installing multiple layers of glass with insulating gas, such as argon, in between the panes. This approach reduces heat transfer.
- Utilizing low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings on the glass as it’s a common means of preventing heat loss while allowing natural light to enter
- Ensuring your door is well sealed to prevent drafts and air leakage is essential. Look for doors with weatherstripping and durable seals
- Choosing patio door frames with thermal breaks. These breaks help reduce heat transfer between the interior and exterior, leading to improved energy efficiency
You can take your exterior and interior design to the next level, and patio doors are a great place to start. Plus, it’s relatively easy because all you really have to do is choose materials and designs that make sense for your space design-wise; then, factor in energy efficiency.