Glass Doctor Sliding Patio Door Selection Guide

Looking for a fresh way to open your home to the outdoors? Opt for a sliding patio door! Known alternatively as a sliding glass door or a glider, this double-panel door glides effortlessly along a fixed track, offering an uninterrupted view of your backyard, day and night.

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Sliding patio doors also:

• Invite natural light into your home.
• Enhance the inviting ambiance of your space.
• Showcase your well-maintained garden or lawn.

Read on to learn how to choose the best sliding patio door for your home:

How to Select the Right Sliding Patio Door for Your Home

Before purchasing and installing a new sliding patio door, several factors need consideration: Are you concerned about energy efficiency? Do you have a preference for frame material? What type of glass do you want in the frame? What’s your budget?

A sliding patio door is a significant investment, so make sure to weigh all the factors before making a decision…

Sliding Patio Door Glass Selection

As sliding patio doors use two large panes of glass, glass selection is crucial. At Glass Doctor®, we recommend doors with an insulated glass unit or double-pane glass to boost efficiency. Federal building codes mandate the use of tempered glass for door windows and panes.

Sliding Patio Door Frame Materials

The frame, both inside and out, is vital for functionality and adds to or detracts from your home's overall aesthetic. Common framing materials include:

Details on finding the best sliding glass doors are available here.

• Wood – Traditional and elegant but on the pricier side. Wood frames need frequent upkeep and are vulnerable to weather damage.
• Vinyl – Cost-efficient and budget-friendly, though susceptible to cracks from extreme temperature changes. More durable than wood.
• Fiberglass – Mimics wood's appearance without its drawbacks. Fiberglass balances the elegance of wood with vinyl's durability.

Vinyl is the most economical option but can be damaged by temperature shifts. Wood and fiberglass are pricier but more resistant to climate-related damage.

Other Options and Upgrades

Sliding patio doors can feature various specialized glass inserts. Partner with your local Glass Doctor to select from the following:

• Double-pane windows with integrated blinds
• Decorative glass with matching side panels
• All-weather glass and storm glass
• Energy-efficient glass options
• Hurricane-rated laminated glass

Sliding Patio Door Benefits

Beyond the previously mentioned benefits, sliding patio doors are ideal for homeowners who want doors that:

• Do not occupy indoor or outdoor space
• Are easy to operate
• Provide a modern, sleek look
• Feature a multipoint locking system

What About French Doors?

French doors are another excellent option for letting the outside in. Unlike sliding doors, French doors swing open wide over a patio or deck. The choice between French and sliding doors boils down to personal preference, as both have their unique advantages.

Let Glass Doctor Fix Your Exterior Door Panes

Glass Doctor offers a wide selection of sliding glass patio doors and installation services tailored to meet your needs and fix your panes.

If you need help selecting, installing, or customizing a new sliding patio door, schedule an appointment online or call 833-974-0209 today. For more details about sliding commercial windows, contact us. Our experienced sales team can assist you in finding the best options to suit your needs.