Whether it’s selecting a new patio door type or replacing your current doors, Omniview has a wide selection of different options to choose from to fit your budget, style, and functionality. Knowing the pros and cons of each can help you make the right styling decision for your home.
Sliding Doors
Sliding doors are the most classic and common option out there. It is usually a two-panel fixture, with one panel being fixed in place while the other is mobile to slide open and close.
Some advantages include:
- Ease of operation – Sliding doors are very user friendly and don’t require much effort to open & close since the weight of the door is situated on a sliding track.
- Space saving – The doors run parallel with the frame, so there is no need to account for the door swinging open in any way.
- Great view when closed – Sliding doors have minimal frames that get in the way of seeing the outside view
Some disadvantages include:
- Accessibility – Compared to other door types, sliding doors aren’t able to fully open up. There will always be a stationary panel, making it less appealing to keep open often
- Expense – For small spaces, these will be a great option to have. For bigger spaces, they will get pretty expensive
Bi-fold Doors
Bi-fold doors are designed to fold accordion style, and help provide a sense of connectedness between the indoor and outdoor space.
Some advantages include:
- Aesthetics – These doors are great if you prefer to keep them open more often and move freely between the indoors and outdoors.
- Accessibility – Due to the accordion style of these doors, it allows you to open up the entire wall
Some disadvantages include:
- Takes up more space – Because the doors fold, there will need to be some clearance space for them, either indoor or outdoor
- Thermal issues – Due to the additional frames and hinges, bi-folds could have some weathering issues if there are no proper insulations and weathering that come with it
French style/Swinging Doors
French style hinged doors are an elegant option with its classic looks. They can provide plenty of character or styling options with grids or open frame, inswing or outswing, and symmetry.
Some advantages include:
- Ease of Access – French doors can open the entire width of the door opening
- Ventilation – You have the option to open both doors, or keep just one side open, depending on your preference
Some disadvantages include:
- Space issues – A wide amount of clearance space is needed to be able to fully open the doors
- Maintenance – These doors do require regular maintenance, such as hinge lubrication and adjustments
- Energy efficiency – The area where the doors meet in the center is susceptible to air and water leakage
Consider all these options when choosing the right patio door for your space! Each has their own set of pros and cons that must be weighed out before making the final decision. For more options, check out Omniview Doors to see our selection of varying styles