French doors on the outside of your home are always practical and chic because they add functionality to aesthetic beauty. This is a perfect choice for you if you want to let more natural light into your house or make it easier to move between indoors and outdoors.
In 2024, it provides a comprehensive guide for purchasing exterior French doors; everything from style options down through installation tips will be covered!
What Are French Doors?
Sometimes referred to as “French windows,” these types of entries usually consist of two panels where most of their length is made up of glass panes.
They have an elegant appearance that never goes out-of-date and can be used in any setting where one wants a cozy feel while still being connected with nature outside.
The direction they swing depends on whether there’s enough room inside – either towards the interior or exterior-but some designs allow them to slide open too.
Styles of Exterior French Doors
Traditional French Doors
The traditional French doors have a few little glass panes embedded in wooden frames, which are usually patterned like a grid. They give a classic, stylish appearance and can be customized using different hardware finishes and wood stains.
Modern French Doors
Nowadays, modern French doors use larger glass panes enclosed by minimalistic frames. They produce a smooth, contemporary look that allows the greatest possible amount of natural light while providing uninterrupted outside views.
Sliding French Doors
Sliding French doors combine elegance with practicality; they bring together features from both conventional French doors as well as sliding types that are more convenient in some cases where swinging is not possible. These slide-on tracks often have big sheets of glass incorporated into them.
Bifold French Doors
Bifold French doors consist of many panels that fold back tightly to create an opening area wide enough for walking through comfortably. Such kinds of doors serve as extensions to decks or patios among other indoor spaces.
Materials for French Doors
Wood
Traditional French doors are made of wood and have a warm, classic look. You can paint or stain these doors to match the decor of your house.
It is important to keep up with maintenance on wooden doors in order to avoid warping them when they are exposed to weather for too long.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass French doors are strong, durable, and require little upkeep. These products imitate the appearance of wood without all the necessary care that comes along with it.
They also help conserve energy since they do not allow air in or out easily and withstand rough weather better than other materials.
Steel
Steel French doors are strong and often used for security purposes in industrial or contemporary buildings. A good thing about them is that they can be painted any color you like so as to match with your interior design needs. They provide excellent insulation but may lack aesthetic warmth common with wooden or fiberglass options.
Aluminum
Aluminum French doors are lightweight, corrosion resistant and need only minimal maintenance practices. The material is commonly used in modern architectural designs where sleekness matters most; hence can be powder coated into different shades accordingly. Energy efficiency levels may, however, be lower compared to other types due to its nature.
Glass Options for French Doors
Clear Glass
Clear glass offers an unobstructed view and allows maximum natural light to enter your home. It’s ideal for areas where privacy is not a concern.
Frosted Glass
A frosted glass window enables light to filter through while still maintaining a sense of privacy. Is perfect if you’re looking for a way to maintain privacy in a bathroom or bedroom without sacrificing the amount of natural light that it provides.
Low-E Glass
It has a special coating that reflects heat and allows light to pass through. During the summer, you will feel cooler, and during the winter, you will feel warmer.
Decorative Glass
Decorative choices such as stained or etched glass add a touch of art and originality to your French doors. These are great for adding character and enhancing the overall design of your home.
Choosing the Right Size
When selecting French doors, it’s essential to measure the opening accurately. Standard French door sizes range from 30 to 72 inches in width and 80 to 96 inches in height.
Custom sizes are also obtainable to fit specific openings. Ensure that the entries you choose will fit your space without requiring significant structural modifications.
Energy Efficiency
It is a crucial consideration when choosing exterior French doors. Look for doors with:
- Low-E Glass: This helps regulate indoor temperatures by reflecting heat.
- Double or Triple Glazing: Multiple layers of glass provide better insulation.
- Weather Stripping: Seals around the doors prevent drafts and improve energy efficiency.
- Energy Star Rating: An Energy Star rating indicates that the doors meet specific energy efficiency guidelines.
Security Features
Exterior French doors should provide security as well as aesthetic appeal. Key security features to look for include:
- Multi-Point Locking Systems: These locks engage at multiple points along the door frame, making it harder to break in.
- Reinforced Glass: Laminated or tempered glass is stronger and more resistant to impact.
- Solid Frames: Durable frames made of wood, steel, or fiberglass enhance security.
Installation Tips
Proper installation is vital to ensure your French doors operate smoothly and provide adequate insulation and security. Here are some tips:
- Professional Installation: Hiring a professional ensures the doors are installed correctly and aligned properly.
- Check the Opening: Ensure the opening is square and level before installation.
- Use High-Quality Hardware: Durable hinges, handles, and locks will ensure long-lasting performance.
- Seal and Insulate: Proper sealing and insulation around the frame prevent drafts and improve energy efficiency.
Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance will keep your French doors looking beautiful and functioning well for years. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Clean the Glass: Use a light glass cleaner and a clean cloth to keep the glass panes clear and free of smudges.
- Inspect and Lubricate Hinges: Check the hinges periodically and apply lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
- Repaint or Restain Wood: If you have wooden doors, repaint or restain them every few years to protect the wood from weather damage.
- Check Weather Stripping: Replace worn or damaged weather stripping to maintain energy efficiency.
Cost Considerations
The cost of exterior French doors can vary widely based on materials, design, and customizations. On average, you can expect to pay:
- Wood Doors: $500 to $4,000 per pair, depending on the type of wood and craftsmanship.
- Fiberglass Doors: $800 to $3,000 per pair, offering a balance between cost and durability.
- Steel Doors: $600 to $2,500 per pair, providing strong security features.
- Aluminum Doors: $700 to $2,500 per pair, ideal for modern designs.
Conclusion!
Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance with wrought iron doors, maximize space with pivot doors, or enhance convenience with sliding doors, Bighorn Iron Doors offers a wide selection of exterior doors to suit your style and needs. Make the best decision for your home in 2024 and choose Bighorn Iron Doors for quality and variety.
