Improving Your Living Space with French Doors

Providing easy access and plenty of natural light, while remaining surprisingly secure and energy efficient, French doors are an excellent choice for any home.

But with so many variations in the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. 

At Manchester Window Factory, we have over 25 years of experience in doors, windows and conservatories under our belts. We are happy to share this knowledge via guides and articles such as this one.

In this blog, we’ll answer some of your frequently asked questions, such as ‘what size are French doors?’  and explain why French doors could enhance your living space.

What are French windows?

French windows is another name for French doors, an attractive style of wide door with a large glazed area. The glass may be separated by a thin frame into squares or rectangles They open (and close) using a swing action on hinges and can do so with an inward or outward swing. 

Originating in France, hence the name, French doors have graced homes around the world for centuries and remain a popular choice for many UK homeowners. 

Usually a single pair, French doors can also be arranged in sets of four for a more modern, Americanised look.

Versatile and as practical as they are pretty, French doors can be used as interior or exterior doors. Often used as patio doors to open out into a garden, balcony or other outdoor space, they are also a great choice for breakfast rooms and kitchen extensions.

What do French doors look like? 

Typically, French doors are wooden and follow a simple symmetrical design. However, modern French doors come in a plethora of different styles and pane configurations. 

Occasionally, they even pivot, slide or fold, although experts are divided on whether these styles qualify as French doors. 

What are the different sizes you can get?

French doors are available in a wide range of sizes to fit your space. We understand that older houses, in particular, don’t always have standard door sizes, so we will work alongside you to customise your French doors to your specifications.

A single set of French doors would be impractical for a doorway wider than four metres, but you can then use two sets to fill the space or look at other options.

What types of French doors do you offer?

We offer a variety of French doors, from contemporary uPVC and Aluminium to more traditional timber. Built to last and created to add a wow factor to your home, all of our French doors make a statement.

With uPVC, you have a choice of 12 stunning colours and finishes, ranging from authentic wood effects to white and grey.

Our slimline Aluminium French doors are also a big hit with customers. The slender frames provide maximum light and minimal disruption to your view. You can purchase them in five colours.

With classic timber, you can choose just about any colour or wood stain. As the timber is laminated, these wooden French doors are more resilient than traditional timber doors. 

You can also choose from several glazing options, including triple glazing and laminate glass for added privacy and security.  

Our French doors have a u-value of just 0.8, making them market leaders in reducing your carbon footprint. 

They also come with a 10-year fully comprehensive insurance-backed guarantee which includes all fixtures and installation.

Do they reduce your heating bills?

Yes, or at least they can. The rapid opening and closing action French doors have means they prevent heat from escaping. 

Modern French doors like ours are constructed with energy efficiency and insulation in mind. Our BBA-certified doors use the latest technology and the best materials to ensure long-lasting optimum performance.   

So long as they are properly fitted, French doors can help to reduce your heating bills. 

Can they add value to your home?

In the same way as a new kitchen or many other upgrades, French doors have the potential to add value to your home.

Exterior French doors have curb appeal, while internal French doors also enhance the overall appearance of a home. 

The energy efficiency and other benefits mentioned make them appealing to most people, particularly if they include extra security measures.  

French doors appeal to most potential buyers, so it’s unlikely that their presence will put a potential buyer off. 

How secure are French Doors?

There is a misconception that French doors are less secure than other styles of doors. Perhaps it is because French doors look so inviting. Or because they offer easy access to the homeowner? 

Whatever the case, it is not true.  

The French doors we sell at Manchester Window Factory meet British Security Standards and can be made even more secure by adding laminated glass and Ultion door barrels. 

What is the difference between French doors and patio doors?

French doors are a type of door often used as patio doors. The main difference is that French doors open and close by swinging on hinges. Many patio doors open and close by sliding along a track fixed to the wall.

There are pros and cons associated with each, and which is better for you comes down to personal preference and what you require from the doors.

Pros of French doors

• Create a seamless transition from the outside-in
• Can also be used to divide rooms and delineate separate spaces
• Allow plenty of natural light to flow through
• Don’t allow heat to escape  or cause drafts
• Can add value to your home
• Reduce energy bills
• Long-lasting and durable
• Secure with extra security options such as Ultion door barrels
• The glass can be laminated and double or triple glazed
• Made from industry-leading materials
• Customisable with a range of colours and finishes

Cons of French doors

• You need enough floor space for the swing opening
• Standard French doors don’t provide much privacy
• They are generally more expensive than sliding doors and other styles
• You may have more windows to clean
• Can slam shut in high winds

Pros of sliding patio doors 

• Usually cheaper than French doors
• Let in lots of natural light
• Allow good ventilation
• Don’t take up much space
• Create a smooth transition outside in or between spaces
• Safe and secure
• Highly energy efficient
• Are not affected by high winds

Cons of sliding patio doors 

• Require a lot of cleaning
• The track can occasionally get stuck or become stiff and hard to manoeuvre

Which is cheaper french doors or sliding doors?

Although sliding doors tend to be cheaper than French doors, there are exceptions. The size, style, and materials used will affect the cost of both

So, there you have it. We hope we have provided useful information and made a case for French doors enhancing your living space.