French doors are found in many homes today because they add style and value to the residence. These doors are typically double-hinged and exit onto a patio, garden, or balcony. However, people may use them anywhere in the home they desire.
The doors allow natural light into the home and give the appearance of a continuous view. With the installation of doors, the home will transition seamlessly into green space. People love that they can give the room a new look with nothing more than the addition of these French doors. What should a person know about French doors when determining whether they are suitable for their residence?
French Door Benefits
People often focus on the aesthetic appeal of French doors without considering the other benefits of their installation. As mentioned, the doors improve natural light levels in the home and increase the building’s energy efficiency. They are easy to clean, maintain and serve as a focal point of any room. Once these doors are in place, people will have easy access to outdoor spaces.
Furthermore, many manufacturers today use sustainable designs for these doors, essential to environmentally conscious consumers. After using the doors for a few doors, homeowners are sure to come up with other reasons why they are a great addition to the home. However, they must ensure they choose the right doors for the space to see the most benefit. What factors should a person consider when making this purchase?
Swing-In or Swing Out?
French doors swing in or out, and the buyer must decide what they want. Both options have advantages and drawbacks to consider when making this decision. Swing-out doors maximize floor space, but many homeowners wish to maximize their outdoor living area; doors that swing inward when opened should be purchased for those who do. Regardless of which option they select, homeowners will find the doors improve the weatherproofing of the structure.
Security and French Doors
Many homeowners bypass French doors because they worry the doors won’t keep their families safe. This misconception needs to be cleared up immediately. Professionally installed French doors are safe and secure. They come with high-quality locking mechanisms and hardware that make the doors visually appealing and secure. However, improper installation or the wrong hardware can leave the home vulnerable, so installation is a task best handled by the pros.
Homeowners who still have concerns once the doors are professionally installed may take steps to increase their safety. Purchase French doors with a three-point locking system and impact-resistant glass. The installer must use security hinges and a deadbolt or double mortice lock. They may also choose to add security window film and security bars. Security cameras and a home security system also work to deter criminals, so homeowners may wish to add them to their property.
French Door Placement
In addition to finding French doors that properly fit the opening, homeowners must also determine where to place them in the home for the maximum return on investment. Most homeowners place them in the rear of the house to serve as a transition between the home and outdoor living space, but no rule says the doors must be placed here.
Most homeowners install their French doors on a single wall and center them on this wall. Why not install the doors in the corner of the room and have the doors form a right angle? The French doors will serve as a tall corner window and focal point in the room. In addition, this setup will allow more floor space in the room, which is essential when a person is trying to maximize the space they currently have. There are also French doors that serve as bookcases. They may be used to hide a secret room in the home or for many other purposes.
Frame the French door with windows for a unique look. Choose fixed windows that are the same height as the doors and put them on either side to provide a dramatic look to the room. The room will appear as if it has a window wall or double doors and look and feel more spacious when people enter. This setup also allows for a perfect transition from the home’s interior to the exterior.
Nevertheless, the central wall remains the most popular place for French doors. People often install the doors in their living room, dining room, or kitchen that overlooks the backyard. This setup provides the room with a symmetrical look and allows the doors to serve as a frame for the outdoors. Homeowners may find this configuration won’t work because of the home’s layout, but it is worth consideration. An off-center placement is also appealing to many. Either way, the French door bookcase would be perfect on any wall in the home.
Material Options
Homeowners find they can choose a material for their French doors. The choice is often made based on the home’s architectural style. Timber French doors remain popular with many homeowners because they are easy to clean and maintain. They give any property an elegant feel and are sustainable and eco-friendly. Homeowners worried about their impact on the environment often choose Timber French doors to protect the planet.
However, aluminum French doors are the better option for contemporary homes. They come in various finishes and coatings, making it easy for every homeowner to find the combination that best complements their property. The doors will blend seamlessly with other architectural features for an elegant look people love.
Every homeowner should take a second look at French doors. They add style to the home and do much more. Although there are some security concerns with French doors, these concerns only arise when the doors aren’t installed properly or lack the safety features every door should have. Talk with a professional installer to learn how these doors can be secured as any door is.
People are often surprised to learn their choices today and want to know more. The installation team will be happy to share this information because they want the homeowner to be happy with the work when it is completed. The more they know, the greater the odds that they will love the doors when they are in place.
