Replacing French Doors? Here’s What Most People Forget to Check

French doors add a spectacular touch to any home, providing elegance, daylight, and unobstructed access to the outdoors. Yet when the time arrives for French door replacement, most homeowners tend to ignore important considerations that can influence the overall performance, energy efficiency, and longevity of the new doors. While appearance is the main concern, there are a few major considerations that need to be taken into account in order to make your French doors not only beautiful but also functional and effective.

Major Considerations You Should Have In Mind When Installing French Doors

1. The Door Frame and Fit

A very common mistake people make when installing French doors is forgetting about the state of the original door frame. Often, the frame can get warped or damaged with time due to moisture, wear and tear, or faulty installation. Even if the frame appears to be okay on the surface, some small problems can cause misalignment of your new French doors.

When replacing, make sure the frame is square and level. If it is not, you might have to repair or replace the frame prior to installing the new doors. If the frame is poorly aligned, you can expect it to be challenging to open and close the doors, as well as not insulate properly, which will cost you extra money on your energy bills. So, when you are replacing French doors, spend some time examining the frame up close or have your contractor inspect it for you.

2. Energy Efficiency Features

Though French doors look great, they might be less energy-efficient than other doors, particularly if you’re replacing outdated ones. Glass is a critical element in French doors. If you don’t select the proper glass type, you might lose heat in winter and gain heat in summer.

Choose energy-efficient French doors that are equipped with double or triple-pane Glass. These are excellent insulators for your house and can stop drafts. Also, opt for Low-E (low emissivity) glass, which contains a special coating that reflects the heat inward in winter and keeps out the sun’s heat in summer. Also, look for insulated frames, which can help further cut energy loss. When French doors are replaced, energy efficiency gets little attention but can greatly enhance comfort and savings in the long run.

3. Quality of Materials

The material of the French doors you have is yet another aspect that many people neglect. All materials aren’t created equal when considering endurance, maintenance, and insulation. French doors made of wood can warp, rot, or swell with water. However, fiberglass and vinyl doors are more resistant and need less maintenance. They are also more resistant to the elements, particularly where there is high humidity or temperature fluctuation.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, durable option that also offers great energy efficiency, fiberglass or vinyl French doors might be the best choice. While replacing French doors, consider the long-term benefits of choosing materials that not only fit your aesthetic but are built to last.

4. Hardware and Security

Many homeowners tend to pay attention to the door itself when installing new French doors and forget to consider the value of high-strength hardware and security features. Wide panes of Glass in French doors mean that these doors are considered vulnerable points of the home. So, it’s crucial to install strong locks, hinges and handles on your new doors.

Seek out French doors with multi-point locking systems, which lock the door at multiple points on the frame. This is more secure than single-lock systems. You should also look to replace it with impact-resistant or laminated Glass for added protection against break-in. You don’t want your French doors to be a weak point in your home, so be sure to inspect the hardware and security aspects when replacing French doors.

5. Professional Installation

Installation is just as critical as selecting the proper doors. Even French doors of the highest quality will not function properly if they are not installed correctly. Poor installation can result in gaps that create drafts, water leaks, and trouble opening and closing the doors.

Replacing French doors is always best done with the professional help of someone who specializes in door replacement. A professional can make sure the doors are aligned, sealed, and insulated to the best of their ability, maximizing their performance and lifespan. DIY installation, though it may be perceived as a cost-cutting measure, can result in problems down the road, including bad insulation, drafts, or misalignment. Installation done properly will not only enhance the functionality of your doors but also ensure their aesthetic appeal and functionality.

6. Door Style and Home Aesthetic

While it’s appealing to focus on the functionality of your new French doors, don’t forget to think about how they’ll look with the rest of your home’s aesthetic. French doors are available in a range of styles, from traditional double-door designs to sleeker designs featuring glass panels and minimalist hardware.

If you’re replacing French doors on a historic house, it’s critical to select a style that suits the building’s architecture. For newer homes, on the other hand, you might consider using a modern style that has clean lines and is minimalist. Be aware that your new door’s style must work well with the overall look of your house, both from the outside and the inside, in order to look great.

7. Cost Considerations

While French doors can be a great value and a beauty to your home, they can also be a big expense. When budgeting to replace French doors, you should take into account both the initial cost of the doors and the long-term savings you can gain through better energy efficiency.

In addition to the cost of the doors themselves, factor in the installation, any necessary repairs to the frame, and the potential for upgrading hardware or adding security features. It’s also a good idea to get multiple quotes from contractors or professional glass door suppliers to ensure you’re getting the best value for your investment.

Replacing French doors is an exciting opportunity to enhance the beauty, comfort, and energy efficiency of your home. However, it’s important to remember that the process involves more than just picking out the most visually appealing doors. Make sure to check the condition of your door frame, choose energy-efficient Glass, select durable materials, and prioritize security features.