Patio doors are a great way to bring your landscape into your home. They also let in more natural light and fresh air.
Like all products, patio doors come in a variety of designs, styles and materials. Choosing the right one for your home is important. The key factors to consider are:
Aesthetics
Patio doors are ideal for homeowners who want to capture expansive views of the outdoors. They are made with large panes of glass and narrow frames, which makes them a perfect fit for any home. They also open effortlessly, allowing you to step out into your backyard or indoors with ease.
Since they often face the backyard, they also offer burglars a view into the house. Luckily, modern patio doors are designed with several security features to make them less vulnerable to breaking and entering. For instance, many are equipped with Multi-Point Locks that prevent door disassembly and provide additional security. They also feature reinforced hinges and locking mechanisms to withstand forced entry attempts. Moreover, some are fitted with integrated grilles that resemble individual windowpanes for added visual appeal.
Energy Efficiency
Sliding patio doors let in copious amounts of natural light that can help a home stay warmer, brighter, and healthier. They can also reduce utility bills by illuminating interior spaces without turning on artificial lights.
The energy efficiency of Patio doors Hoover AL depends on the type of glass and frame materials. The best insulators are fiberglass and vinyl. Wood is less insulating but still an attractive option, especially in coastal areas.
A Low Emissivity coating can make a big difference in the insulation of your patio door glass. This coating contains tiny metal particles that reflect heat away from the inside of the house in winter and outward in summer, inhibiting thermal transfer. It can be applied to the outside of a single pane or sandwiched between two panes.
Some patio doors also include options for ventilation that can improve air quality by allowing in fresh air and keeping unwanted pests out of the home. For example, the Rolscreen available on some Pella Impervia patio doors is tucked away when not in use and only appears when you want to enjoy your outdoor space.
Maintenance
Patio doors can open up a home and let in natural light and fresh air without the cost of building an extension. They are also an excellent solution for homes with hot summers as they allow the air to flow through and cool the house naturally reducing the need for expensive air conditioning.
When choosing your patio door it is important to consider the materials, locking mechanism, and security features that are available. uPVC, aluminium, and composite are the 3 main materials used for Patio doors with uPVC being the most affordable. uPVC and aluminium are easy to maintain and can be wiped down with a cloth to keep them looking as good as new.
In terms of security, French doors are more secure than sliding or bifold doors as they have a central locking point making it more difficult to break in. A multipoint locking system should be used which is compatible with the door material.