What’s the difference between French doors and exterior double doors? It turns out there actually isn’t that much. Both offer an elegant exit from your property into the garden or outside space. When you want to find patio doors for your home, both will be excellent options. A closer look will reveal that there are differences between the two designs, however.
This guide tells you everything you need to know about these external doors, their pros and cons, and which style you should choose for your home.
You’ve heard about making a grand entrance, well with exterior double doors, it’s all about making a grand exit! These doors allow you to access the outside world in style from your living space or conservatory into the garden or exterior space. However, most double doors aren’t fully glazed so you lose those views and all that natural light when they’re closed. That’s why many homeowners choose French doors for their homes.
French doors open in the same way, but they are almost totally fully glazed; this is the main difference between the two styles. Because of this, more natural light can flow from outside into your home keeping it light and bright, and warming it up during the day. Not only that, but you’ll still get gorgeous views even when the doors are closed.
With modern French doors, you can choose advanced double glazing and durable uPVC frames, with the option of contemporary aluminium for slimmer frames, and other materials like solid wood as well. Exterior French doors are also fully weatherproof, meaning they’ll stand up to wind, rain and winter weather.
Exterior French doors could be a better choice and investment for your home than double doors. But, with Double Glazing On The Web, you can make a good situation even better! We’ll help you find the perfect doors with low prices from a range of trusted local suppliers. You’ll save money and time, and get a high-quality set of exterior French doors when you compare double glazing prices with us.
Why Choose Exterior French or Double Doors?
Exterior French and double doors have one common feature, and that’s that they both have broad openings. Because of this, they’re a brilliant option for making your home feel more spacious and welcoming. When you open doors like these, the two sections separate creating a more expansive entrance to your garden. You can let more fresh air into your home too, helping with ventilation.
If you have a garden you’d like to use more, exterior French and double doors are ideal. They make it easy to pass from your indoor space to your outdoor area or garden. Because they’re exterior doors, they are designed to be durable. Modern French doors often use uPVC, which is fully weatherproof and scratch-resistant.
With exterior double doors, you still get that same inviting feel when you open them up. However, because they aren’t fully glazed, they can limit natural light when they’re closed and rather dominate your living space. Plus, if you choose timber materials for your new doors, you’ll have to spend a lot of time on maintenance to ensure it stays weatherproof and doesn’t crack or warp over time.
However, if you install French doors, they’ll add a touch of European flair to your home. These designs blend the traditional and contemporary to fit seamlessly into your home. Using the latest materials, French doors operate with the ease of sliding patio doors but seriously impress with their classic good looks.
The Differences Between Exterior French Doors and Double Doors
So, what are the key differences between exterior French doors and double doors? There is in fact only one crucial difference between the two, but it makes a considerable impact; the main difference is the way these doors use glass.
Most double doors don’t have a full glazing section, meaning when they’re closed, you lose natural light and nice views. French doors on the other hand are all about bringing the outside inside, with a large glazing area that allows natural light to flood in plus the warmth of the sun (called solar gain) which can help heat your home for free. These glass panels work with uPVC or aluminium frames to suit lots of different property types and styles.
The type of glass is also important. While some old double doors might only have one pane of glass, modern French doors use double glazing as standard. Double glazing gives you two panes of glass, meaning you get better protection against cold temperatures. The glass creates a thermal barrier for your home, insulating you from the cold and trapping your home’s natural heat, keeping it right where you want it.
As a result of this, you can combine classic French doors with all the advantages of thermal regulation, and new stylish and energy efficient designs. Cut the cost of your energy bills while staying comfortable, and reduce your carbon footprint at the same time.
The Advantages of Exterior French Doors
Because of their open, elegant design, exterior French doors have become hugely popular amongst homeowners across the UK, rapidly overtaking sliding patio doors as the ‘go to’ choice for access to the great outdoors. And, the reason is obvious.
French doors have a more stylish and inviting design, inspired by European buildings and architecture. Now, you can bring a touch of continental living to your home with a door that lets light flood in and features slim sight lines and classic styling.
However, while French doors look stylish, it’s what’s underneath them that makes them really shine. Modern French doors feature the latest hardware with resilient hinges, multi-point locking systems for the glass, and some even have multi-chambered uPVC profiles. As a result, your door will protect you from intruders and the cold weather for decades to come.
Exterior French doors will last the course, too. While some exterior double doors can show signs of wear after only a few years, your French doors will still be performing at their best. uPVC and aluminium frames keep their shape, style and colour in all weather conditions, meaning you’re not stuck with time-consuming maintenance and repairs. You’ll only need to wipe your doors down with a damp cloth to clean dirt every few weeks. That’s it! And your doors will look brand new for years.
Are Exterior French or Double Doors Right For Me?
So, how do you know if these doors are right for you and are they going to look better than your current sliding doors? Well, each design is slightly different, and that can affect the price, too. Modern French doors are an expensive investment however, with advanced materials and an efficient design, they will pay you back over the course of the next few years.
Old double doors will leach energy from your home. Modern French doors capture it and help you rely less on your central heating to stay warm and cosy. Start saving on your energy bills and you’ll recoup your investment as well as enjoying stylish living.
How much you pay for French doors is up to you and that’s because, with many companies, you can fully customise the doors to suit your home. Choose the size, shape, and the opening direction of the doors – French doors can open outwards or open inwards – to make sure they work for your home and, with a range of unique colours, they’ll be a standout addition on the exterior of your property.
Your exterior French doors will also keep their looks for decades, too, thanks to the long-lasting uPVC frames. You’ll even be able to choose durable accessories such as sleek handles with a range of finishes. Invest in quality that lasts for your home.
Exterior French Doors For Less
If you want to add exterior French doors to your home, then don’t look anywhere else. With Double Glazing On The Web, you won’t have to spend days searching for a company to fit your new doors or hunt out competitive prices. We’ll put you in touch with a trusted door company near you who’ll offer high-quality French doors with professional installation as standard.
With local installers, you can save a lot of money on your doors. Unlike the big national companies, they don’t have to cover large overheads or travel far to reach you. You’ll be working with a door company on your doorstep, meaning shorter wait times and more competitive prices. You can be sure an installer that’s part of our network will offer high-quality designs too.
We extensively review our network to make sure we only work with the best. You’ll find an excellent set of exterior French doors that are bespoke to your home and your budget. Also, for added peace of mind, most of the installers we work with are members of Checkatrade and Which? Trusted Traders. Well, that’s a relief!
Exterior French Doors Prices
Find low prices for exterior French doors with Double Glazing On The Web today!
To ask us more about our doors, and contact the local companies who can install them today, fill in our online form.
Alternatively, you can speak to our friendly team over the phone! Call Double Glazing On The Web today on 0800 015 5679 – we’re ready to help.
Conclusion
Exterior French doors offer a stylish and on-trend alternative to standard double doorways. With their big glass sections and bespoke design, French doors allow in plenty of natural light and provide uninterrupted views to the outside even when closed. Constructed with advanced uPVC or aluminium frames combined with the latest double glazing, French doors provide high-quality energy performance, durability and weather resistance. They may be fully customised to suit your house style and personal preferences. With a trusted neighbourhood door installer from Double Glazing On The Web, you’ll find the best bespoke exterior French doors available at competitive prices, to transform your property and elevate your lifestyle.
Can exterior French doors improve my home’s energy efficiency compared to old-style double doors?
Yes, new French doors are designed with strength efficiency in mind as well as style. They’re a popular choice with features like advanced double glazing and weatherproof uPVC or aluminium frames that insulate your home, reduce heat loss, and lower electricity bills.
Are exterior French doors secure against intruders?
French doors come equipped with multi-point locking systems and robust frames that provide optimal safety and security for your and your family. By selecting doors with the latest advanced hardware plus expert installation, you will ensure your property stays secure from intruders.
How much maintenance do outside French doors require?
One of the advantages of French doors with uPVC or aluminium frames is their low maintenance requirements. These materials are climate-resistant and do not warp, crack, or fade. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is generally all you need to do to look after your French doors.
Can I customise the size and design of my external French doors?
Absolutely! Many door businesses offer bespoke French doors that can be tailor-made to your precise requirements. You can choose the exact specifications, including scale, configuration, glass panels, colour, and add-ons to create doors that perfectly complement your home’s structure and style.
How can I find reputable installers for my external French doors?
Double Glazing On The Web makes it easy to find local door installers. Simply fill in our online form or call our friendly team. They’ll send you the details of trusted traders with competitive prices and quality craftsmanship for your classic French door installation.
