The Latest Patio Door Trends

Sliding glass patio doors are a home staple throughout the country. They’re not only a great use of space; they also offer attractive views to the outdoors and look good on homes of all sizes. If there’s a downside, it’s that the basic version most people have in their homes can be a little, shall we say, boring.

If you’re in the market for new or replacement patio doors, you have more options available than you might imagine. You have a seemingly endless variety of patio door options and configurations to choose from, including multi-panel versions, French-style, and updated sliding models with improved energy efficiency.

Here’s a look at some of today’s most popular patio doors, one or more of which is sure to highlight your home’s architectural style.

French-Style Patio Doors

Stylish and functional, French doors are second only to sliding glass doors for people installing new patio doors. Though they’re often seen used in traditional-style homes, they can enhance any home’s architecture. They don’t take up much more space than standard sliding doors and usually make for a less extensive patio door replacement project.

Double-hinged French doors also give you more leeway when it comes to configuring your new patio doors. You can choose models that:

• Swing in to preserve deck or patio space
• Swing out to save interior space
• Have narrower doors, a great option for tighter spaces

You also have different functionality options. For instance, you can choose to have both doors open or, like traditional sliding glass doors, have one panel fixed and the other operable.

Three-Panel and Four-Panel Sliding Glass Doors

You might be surprised at the difference an extra glass panel or two can make to your patio door. Two-panel sliding glass doors have long been the standard, as they take up the least amount of space. But upgrading to a three- or four-panel sliding glass door comes with its own advantages.

• Adding just one panel increases the natural light that flows into the room by 50%. Like two-panel doors, a three-panel sliding patio door has one panel that slides open and closed, while the other two remain fixed.
• Four-panel sliding glass doors create an even wide opening, with the two middle panels operable and the two outer panels fixed. Four-panel doors are a great choice for families who love to entertain in the backyard.

Express Your Unique Patio Door Style

If you’re planning to install new patio doors or replace existing ones, your choices are limited only by your imagination! Which style patio door is “right” for your home is entirely up to your unique style sense and what works best with your home’s design and layout.

Zen Windows offers a beautiful range of replacement patio doors designed to enhance your home’s appearance, safety, and security. To learn more or get a quick online quote, contact us today.