Types of Patio Doors: Choosing the Right Style for Your Home

Patio doors are more than just an entrance to your garden or outdoor space. They are a key feature that can transform the look and feel of your home. 

Choosing the right type of patio door can enhance natural light, improve access, and add style to your living areas. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular types of patio doors, including sliding doors, bifolding doors, and French doors, to help you find the perfect option for your home.

Sliding Patio Doors

Sliding patio doors are a popular choice for modern homes, known for their simplicity and space-saving design. They consist of two or more large glass panels, with at least one panel sliding horizontally along a track.

Pros:

• Space-saving, ideal for smaller rooms where door clearance is limited
• Offers wide, uninterrupted views of the outdoors
• Smooth operation and contemporary appearance

Cons:

• Only half of the doorway can typically be opened at a time
• Tracks can collect debris and require regular cleaning

Best For:
Homes with limited internal or external space, or properties with a modern architectural style.

Bifold Patio Doors

Bifold doors are a stylish and versatile option that can completely open up a wall to the outside. Made up of multiple panels, they fold and stack neatly to one or both sides.

Pros:

• Creates a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces
• Maximises opening width, making them ideal for entertaining
• Flexible configurations to suit different layouts and sizes

Cons:

• Requires space for panels to stack when open
• Can be a more expensive choice due to the complexity of the mechanism

Best For:
Modern homes and those seeking an open-plan living experience with a strong indoor-outdoor connection.

French Patio Doors

French doors offer a timeless and elegant option for patio access. Typically, they consist of two doors that open outwards (or inwards) from the centre, usually featuring multiple panes of glass.

Pros:

• Classic, attractive design that suits traditional and period homes
• Provides full access when both doors are open
• Customisable with a variety of finishes and glazing options

Cons:

• Requires clear space for the doors to swing open
• Typically offers less glass area compared to sliding or bifold doors

Best For:
Traditional or period-style homes where character and charm are priorities.

Comparing Patio Door Types

Feature	Sliding Doors	Bi-fold Doors	French Doors
Space Efficiency	Excellent	Moderate	Requires More Space
Opening Size	Partial	Full Wall Opening	Full Doorway Opening
Style	Modern	Modern and Flexible	Traditional
Cost	Moderate	Higher	Moderate
Ease of Use	Very Easy	Easy, but more panels	Very Easy

Energy Efficiency and Security

Modern patio doors are designed with energy efficiency in mind. Look for features such as:

• Double or triple glazing to reduce heat loss
• Low-E glass coatings to reflect heat back into the home
• Tight seals and high-quality frames to prevent draughts

Security is equally important. Many patio doors now come with:

• Multi-point locking systems
• Toughened or laminated safety glass
• Reinforced frames

These features ensure that your doors are not just stylish, but secure and energy-efficient too.

Choosing the Right Patio Door for Your Home

When deciding which type of patio door is best for your property, consider:

• Space available: Sliding doors are great for limited space, while bifold doors need room to stack.
• Architectural style: French doors suit classic homes, while sliding and bifold options are ideal for modern designs.
• Budget: Costs can vary considerably depending on material, size, and complexity.
• How you use your space: Frequent entertainers may benefit from wide-opening bifold doors, while a more modest sliding or French door may be sufficient for smaller gatherings.

Taking the time to consider these factors will help you choose a patio door that meets both practical and aesthetic needs.

Find the Right Patio Doors with the Double Glazing Network

Whether you’re aiming for a traditional look with French doors, a modern statement with sliding doors, or an open-plan experience with bifold doors, the right patio doors can truly transform your home. By considering your space, lifestyle, and style preferences, you can find the perfect solution to enhance your living environment.

If you are thinking of upgrading your patio doors, speak to a professional installer who can help guide you through the options and ensure you find the perfect fit for your home.