French Doors sometimes known as a french window or french patio doors is the name given to full height windows with door exit.
The emphasis on allowing light and views to penetrate a room with as much of the room end made glass as possible. The window frame is often designed without central mullions in order to give easy access and entry.
French doors are often glazed with multiple panes – both in order to give the structure some strength, but also as stylising detail. The frame of a french a weather strip at floor level and where the casements meet to prevent water ingress.
The head and foot of french patio doors typically uses espagnolette bolts to allow the top and bottom casements to be secured in one movement. There is generall very thin window joinery to reduce the visual impact of the doorway structure when viewed from outside.
A French door can add style to any home.
It is worth considering privacy before buying french doors because their purpose is primarily decorative and in bringing in natural light, they also allow those outside to see in. So the situation of french doors needs considering carefully, and natural screens on the plot of land such as hedges or trees that prevent passers by seeing in.
Traditional French doors are typically made from hardwood, although UPVC is clearly attractive because of assumed wearing properties. Note that UV light does degrade all UPVC over time.
Exterior French doors tend to be double glazed to provide improved insulation – and noise reduction.
These doors often have stylizing detail such as grilles.
The main reason to consider French patio doors is to draw attention to a beautiful garden or landscaping and to give a very light look – particularly when french doors are used in the interior.
French patio doors are slightly more expensive than other types of doors – but they can also add value. Please finally note that because of the expanse of glass they are more vulnerable to severe storm damage and shutters may be advisable.