French doors look elegant and will fit in with most architectural styles. They originated in France during the Renaissance period in the 17th century. Initially they were used as quite large windows that went from floor level up to just below ceiling level. Mostly used as an opening from rooms onto balconies, and later started to make their way to the ground floor level, opening out to patios. Their main function was to allow lots of light in to brighten the room before electric light was available and also, when open, providing much needed natural ventilation during the summer months. These doors are normally arranged in a pair but they can be a single door since a French door is any door with full height glass.
These doors can also be used internally and it’s a great way of spreading light from one room to the next.
They were originally made from wood, and still are, however nowadays French doors are also made from aluminium and PVC. PVC French doors are most likely the popular type chosen by homeowners. They require very little maintenance and last for many years. White would the standard color but some other colors are now available and many choose a wood grain effect, such as mahogany or oak.
When French doors are installed they provide the homeowner with access to the patio. The doors can open inwards, but normally outwards, assuming sufficient space exists, allowing the doors at least 90 degrees. With the doors fully opened you will have more or less 100% useable access via the doors. The main difference between French doors and the sliding alternative is that with the sliding type only about 50% useable walking access is provided. Both sets of door systems are perfectly acceptable but you can see with the French type that the usability is much better.
So if you have a small opening onto your deck or patio and cannot decide what type of doors to install then consider French doors due to their full width opening capability and elegant appearance.
If further reading on this subject is required go to Doors Dictionary for a detailed analysis of the door systems.
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