Some contractors and homeowners believe that the only way to fit a screen to a French door is to use a sliding screen. However, that’s not the only possibility. In this guide, homeowners will learn about their French door screen options and what to expect during the installation process.

What to Expect From a French Door Screen

• Easy installation: Most screen door makers use flimsy plastic hardware that sticks, breaks easily, and is generally hard to operate. It’s quite difficult to install one of these doors where French doors are present. which takes much of the stress away
• Easy use: If a homeowner ever wants to uninstall the screen door to rearrange furniture, they’re likely to break the delicate parts mentioned above.  
• Durability: As with other doors, metal parts are more durable than those made of plastic.
• Good aesthetics: The way a screen looks on French doors is a primary consideration for many homeowners. After all, most people install these doors to get a better view. A homeowner’s choices in handles, door colors, and hardware may add to or diminish the home’s curb appeal.

The Best Options Accommodate In- and Out-Swinging French Doors

Ideally, homeowners should choose screens that may be installed on either an in- or out-swinging door. For instance, a retractable screen stays in a narrow housing when it’s not being used. They’re nearly invisible, and they stay out of the way for safety. With doors that meet in the midst of the opening, these systems won’t obscure the home’s French doors nor diminish their benefits.

Choices Customized for the Home

With all the time homeowners spend choosing color schemes and design elements for their homes, it’s the screen door installer’s job to complement those choices. Furthermore, a home’s French or double doors likely have glass panels that offer a beautiful outdoor view, as well as nearly undetectable installation and color choices that perfectly match any home’s design.

The Classic Solution

The most common choice for homeowners who want French door screens is a retractable screen that covers both sides and meets in the middle. With these French door kits, it’s possible to leave one screen in place, much like a sliding door, and the homeowner won’t have to move it with every use. However, for those who want a single-stage solution, a long-pull retractable system can cover the widest double doors with just one retractable screen.

Stowaway Screens

Most manufacturers of French doors don’t offer matching screens, so stowaway screens are a perfect solution. The biggest advantage of these convenient screen doors is the homeowner’s ability to use the screen when they want an open-air atmosphere, while being able to slide the screen away when the doors are closed and not in use.  

In most cases, French doors are installed in strategic locations that allow homeowners to utilize highly-trafficked areas or enjoy the great view from a patio or deck. If a buyer lives on a lake, in a peaceful mountain area, or a wide-open plain, these views are best experienced with an opened set of French doors. By adding screens to these doors, buyers get an unobstructed view with sun and insect protection. Best of all, the screens may be slid back when they’re not in use. With a stowaway screen, homeowners get the best of both worlds.

Low Maintenance

As most of these screens are rolled away when they’re not in use, they’re protected from the elements. Therefore, maintenance requirements are minimal. We suggest cleaning the screens at least twice per year, in the spring and autumn, to remove dust particles and other debris. Simply clean them with soapy water and wipe them gently.

A Long, Useful Life

These screens are made from polyester or fiberglass mesh and extruded aluminum, so they’re very durable. Most manufacturers offer limited lifetime warranties, which provide buyers with additional peace of mind. If French door screens are serviced regularly and well cared for, they’ll last for years to come.

French Door Screens are Built to Last

With high-quality parts, finishes, and installation.

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*This article is for information only and US Window and Door does not provide or install French Door Screens