Do you want to know how to increase the value of your home, make your living space more enjoyable, and improve your amount of indoor-outdoor area in one easy step? Three words: sliding patio doors. Replacing a regular exterior door with a sliding patio door can do all of that and more. But with so many options, choosing the best sliding patio doors for your home can seem daunting.

Here are 10 important things to consider when making your decision on the best sliding patio doors for your home and lifestyle.

1. Door Frame Material

You wouldn’t buy only three matching rims for your car and leave one unmatched! Make sure that the material used to frame your sliding glass door pairs well with the existing materials and colors in and out of your home.

Vinyl, and fiberglass are among the most commonly used materials and each has their own benefits.

Factor in the amount of upkeep you’re willing to do as you make your decision on the type of materials to use in the frame.

2. Style

There are a few options to consider when deciding which would be the best sliding patio doors for your home.

Check out these common varieties.

• Standard Sliding: Generally the least expensive option, but includes all the features you need in a sliding glass door.
• French-Style Sliding: Want more natural light? French sliders usually feature bigger panes and more design options.
• Four-Panel Sliding: Sometimes known as a french slider, this door is made of two fixed panels on the edges, with two sliding panels on the inside. Perfect for those looking for a bigger opening.
• Bi-Fold Sliding: A modern option that can include several panes of glass that fold to the side creating a wide open space and surrounded by a durable aluminum frame.
• Pocket Sliding: Perfect for homes with limited space, this door will slide into the adjoining wall and completely disappear when open.

3. Other Design Options

Many sliding glass doors can include additional design features like side panels, decorative panes, etc.

A part of your decision process should include considering how specific design options will pair with your home and lifestyle.

4. Energy Efficiency

Just because the style of your home is now elevated doesn’t mean your AC bill should be too. Make sure when selecting your sliding doors that you consider that hot California sun.

Californians pay on average over $100 each month just for electricity. That amount can skyrocket if you don’t install energy efficient doors that prevent temperature leakage.

There are a variety of glasses to choose from. Work with an expert to determine which will suit your climate best.

5. Internal Blinds Or Window Coverings

Some sliding doors include the option of internal blinds which:

• control the amount of solar exposure
• offer additional insulation
• provide added privacy

When choosing the best sliding patio doors for your home, consider whether this option or other window treatments would best suit your home design and lifestyle.

6. Dog Door

Do you have any fur babies in your family? Some patio doors will have the option of an animal door insert.

New developments mean you won’t have to compromise on security and energy efficiency in order to prevent pet-related accidents.

7. Climate Durability

Your patio door will get the full brunt of the California climate. Make sure to choose a glass that can withstand weather elements like heat, wind, high humidity, and rain.

Although tropical storms aren’t frequent in the area, having hurricane-rated glass can give you peace of mind that one day of bad weather won’t mean months of repairs on your patio door or the interior of your home.

8. Security: The Best Sliding Patio Doors Have It

Local forced-entry codes provide a standard for locks on exterior doors and windows. When choosing a sliding patio door you will want to make sure that your locks meet–or even better–exceed the local codes.

Make sure to partner with experts who can ensure that the security of your home is of the utmost priority when selecting and installing the best sliding patio doors for you.

9. Operation: Ease Of Use

Pay attention to the amount of effort it takes to open a potential patio door. The ideal function should feel more like floating than anything else. Select a door that opens with an ease that suits you.

And remember there’s a certain amount of regular maintenance you can do at home to make sure your patio door continues to operate to its full potential.

But don’t be afraid to contact your experts for help with bigger repairs and help.

10. You Can’t Do It Alone

One of the most important decisions in this process is who you choose to help select, install, and perform maintenance on your new patio doors.

Here are a few ways to tell if a company you’re considering is a good choice:

• Some professionals will offer a free estimate or consultation. Take advantage of that offer so that you can compare prices.
• They have a high quantity of great reviews or testimonials. This can offer peace of mind and an assurance that if other clients were pleased with their work, you will be too.
• They offer services and quality guarantee so you can know what to expect during the time they spend in your home and what they are willing to do if part of your door isn’t working as expected.
• They are easy to contact. You’ll have several times during the selection and installation process that you’ll need to coordinate with the team you select. Pay attention to how easy or difficult it is to contact them so you can avoid a future hassle.

Now Go and Get That Door

Now that you’ve considered the options, it’s time to put your plan into action!

Contact us today so you can start enjoying your new sliding patio doors as soon as possible.