What are French Doors?

French doors are a classic style and can add elegance to your home. This is just one of the style options available for patio door replacement. Although you may hear some people use "French doors" as a synonym for hinged doors, this is not the main identifier of the French style. In fact, modern sliding doors can have a French design. The major characteristic of French doors is that they have a large pane of glass, offering a clear view of the outdoors. There is often a grid that creates smaller sections of glass, although this is not always the case.

More information about French doors:

The Origin of French Doors

As you might be able to guess, French doors originated in France. This design was created in the 17th century during the Renaissance. Symmetry was popular at this time, which is one reason this style features a symmetrical grid. Another reason is that making larger panes of glass was more difficult, so glassmakers would make multiple smaller sections instead and put them together in the grid. These doors were used to let more natural light into dimmer areas of the home and were called porte-fenêtres, meaning "window-doors."

Hinged or Sliding French Doors

The most traditional type of French door is hinged and most commonly includes a pair of doors. For these doors to work, you need to have enough space to allow them to swing either in or out. Hinged doors have the benefit of a more timeless look and fit especially well with the French style. Originally, all French doors were hinged, but this is no longer the case. It is possible to install a sliding patio door with a large pane of glass and a French-style grid. Which you choose comes down to your personal preferences.

Benefits of French Doors

Beautiful and Traditional Style

French doors have a beautiful and classic look. They can add traditional elegance to your home's aesthetic and are a popular choice among homeowners. You can adapt the style of the panes/grid to match your specific design goals.

Natural Light

Because they are made primarily of glass, French-style doors let in a large amount of natural light. This can help brighten your home and can even lift your mood. You can pair these doors with new windows for even more dramatic results.

Visual Bridge to Outdoors

French doors provide a clear view of your backyard, which creates a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors. This improves the overall flow of your home and also helps your living space feel more expansive.

Energy Efficiency

French doors from Window World of Tucson are engineered for superior energy efficiency. All of our designs balance both form and function to give you the best of both worlds. You can enjoy natural light without letting in excess heat and can save on costs while keeping your home comfortable.

Install New French Patio Doors

Contact us today to discuss installing a French door.