Whether you’re remodeling to increase your home’s resale value, repairing a damaged door, or just want better energy efficiency, you’re probably wondering which patio door you should install—hinged or sliding?
Both styles allow you to achieve function and beauty while creating a seamless transition that connects the outside with the inside. Your design and lifestyle preferences are the best guides to determine which is the optimal patio door for your home.
Below, we’ve defined and outlined the advantages and disadvantages of hinged and sliding patio doors!
Hinged Patio Doors
Hinged patio doors are a classic and sophisticated addition to any home, especially French doors which have the highest return on resale values.
They are fastened to your door jamb by two or more hinges and are pushed open. Below are the advantages and disadvantages of hinged patio doors.
Advantages
- Can be fully opened as opposed to sliding doors
- More traditional option allowing for a wider variety of sizes and finishes to accommodate your style preference
Disadvantages
- Take up more room when opened, limiting your furniture placement
- No option for a screen to filter bugs and dirt from entering your home
Sliding Patio Doors
Sliding patio doors are highly functional and easy to operate because they slide open horizontally and typically close with one operating panel and one stationary panel. Below are the advantages and disadvantages to sliding patio doors.
Advantages
- In contrast to the traditional hinged door, sliding patio doors add a contemporary twist to your home’s style
- Provides additional options, such as screen panels to let the cool, crisp, Florida winter air in while keeping the bugs and dirt out
- Less space-invasive because it slides open horizontally
Disadvantages
- More challenging to keep the outside glass clean since it’s exposed to outdoor debris
- Has more potential to get stuck or jammed at the opening
Which Patio Door Will You Choose—Hinged or Sliding?
Both hinged and sliding doors have advantages and disadvantages. Whichever patio door you choose will depend on your lifestyle and design preferences.
It’s important to choose a hinged or sliding patio door with a strong glass package and a multipoint lock system to optimize the prevention of intruders and severe weather damage.
If you’re looking for the most energy efficient option, look at the door’s ENERGY STAR ratings, quality of weatherstripping and you may even want to add a Low-E coating to boost its energy performance.
To learn more about EAS hinged and sliding patio door ENERGY STAR ratings and glass packages, click the button below.
