A well-designed patio door can add significant curb appeal to your home. But it’s important to consider how your doors will function in your home before investing in one.
Find a local deck and patio contractor on Houzz to help you create an outdoor space that is functional for your family’s needs.
Impact Glass
As the name suggests, impact glass offers extra protection during severe weather events. It’s created by laminating several layers of materials together, and it passes stringent tests to ensure your home will be safe in the event of debris or wind-driven rain. Because impact-resistant glass requires more time and resources to manufacture, there are certain “tells” that can help homeowners tell if their patio doors have this important feature. Check for a sticker or label that identifies the type of glass.
Energy Efficiency
When it comes to energy efficiency in patio doors, there are several different factors homeowners can look for. First, they should look for a patio door that is ENERGY STAR certified to help reduce energy consumption and bills. Then, they should look for a patio door with a Masonite Performance Door System 4-Point Performance Seal that helps to prevent drafts and air leakage.
The type of frame material can also influence the patio door’s energy efficiency. Fiberglass offers the best insulating capabilities and can resist extreme temperatures, salty air, and damaging ultraviolet rays. Vinyl is another popular choice, as it is durable and low maintenance.
Patio doors with glass are often the source of heat loss in a home, but modern energy-efficient glass helps to reduce this by inhibiting conduction. Some models use multiple panes of glass with a space between them filled with a low-conductivity gas, such as argon. This gas has a thermal conductivity that is two-thirds less than that of air, which helps to keep warm air inside the home during the winter.
Durability
Durable patio doors withstand Florida’s extreme weather. These doors offer protection from the elements, are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance. They also add style and curb appeal to your home. They’re also a deterrent to burglars and fire hazards. They’re available in several styles and materials, including aluminum, vinyl and fiberglass.
Patio door sets can be integrated with fixed screens and opening windows. They’re suitable for replacing dated or damaged doors as well as new extensions. They’re available in French, sliding or bifold doors with various glass options, colours and profile aesthetics. They can also be designed with ultra-low threshold solutions for disabled access and a wide range of opening and door functions.
Upgrading your existing doors with a quality-constructed replacement is an effective way to increase home value, style and energy efficiency. Work with a local contractor who will give you a clear timeframe for when they’ll complete the job so that you can plan your day.
Security
Often, the patio doors in a home are what burglars target most because of their large glass windows and locks that are easy to pick. They allow them to see inside the house and what is within, which gives them the motivation to break in and steal valuables and personal items.
To help prevent a burglar from breaking into your home through your patio door, consider getting an integrated footbolt. This bolt will help block the door on the track, making it difficult to pull open and climb through.
Sliding glass patio doors are beautiful because they create a seamless transition between the indoors and the outdoors. However, they are also vulnerable to the elements, especially when their lock becomes damaged. A reliable contractor will perform patio door repair that helps keep your home safe from unwanted intruders. It’s important to work with a trusted contractor that can give you a specific timeframe on when the patio door repair will be completed, so you can plan accordingly.