Considering French Doors? Here’s What You Need To Know – Pros And Cons

French doors are a timeless and elegant way to bring more natural light into your home while creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether renovating a period property or upgrading a modern home, French doors can add style and practicality.

But are they the right choice for you? While they offer undeniable aesthetic appeal, there are also factors to consider, such as insulation, security, and maintenance. In this blog, we’ll discuss what French doors are, their pros and cons and why they are a fantastic investment for any home.

Looking for high-quality French doors in London? At The London Sash Window Company, we specialise in bespoke French doors crafted from premium materials like Accoya wood, ensuring durability, energy efficiency, and timeless beauty. Our expert team can help you choose the perfect design to complement your home.

Contact us today on 020 8015 2097 or email us at office@londonsash.com for a free consultation and bring elegance to your space!

What Are French Doors?

French doors are a classic style of double doors featuring glass panels that allow natural light to flood into your living space. Traditionally, they are hinged and open outward or inward, creating a broad and inviting entrance.

These doors are available in various materials, including wood, UPVC French doors, and aluminium French doors, each offering distinct advantages in durability, aesthetics, and thermal efficiency.

French doors are commonly used in:

• Living rooms – to create a bright and airy feel.
• Dining rooms – for an elegant transition to an outdoor patio.
• As exterior French doors – connecting your home to a garden, balcony, or terrace.

So, whether you’re looking for interior French doors to divide spaces within your home or external French doors to blend indoor and outdoor areas, they provide a sophisticated solution.

The Pros Of French Doors

Now that you know about what French doors are, here are their pros:

1. Maximise Natural Light

One of the greatest advantages of French doors is their ability to flood your home with natural light. The large glass panels create a bright, airy atmosphere, making living and dining rooms more spacious and inviting.

2. Improve Indoor-Outdoor Flow

External French doors provide seamless access to outdoor spaces, whether leading to a patio, garden, or balcony. This is perfect for summer gatherings, letting in fresh air, and enhancing the connection between your home and nature.

3. Stylish And Versatile

French doors come in various styles and materials, including wooden, UPVC, and aluminium French doors. This versatility makes them suitable for both traditional and contemporary homes.

4. Enhanced Energy Efficiency

Modern French doors feature double glazing and draught proofing, which help to reduce heat loss and improve insulation. High-quality materials like Accoya wood and thermal glass further enhance their energy efficiency.

5. Increased Property Value

Adding French doors to your home improves aesthetics and increases resale value. Their timeless appeal makes them an attractive feature for potential buyers.

6. Customisation With Shutters And Mid Rails

For added privacy, security, and insulation, you can pair your French doors with shutters for French doors or patio door shutters. Mid rails can also be incorporated for a more classic design, adding an extra layer of style.

7. Secure Locking Systems

Modern French doors come equipped with advanced locking systems, ensuring your home remains safe while maintaining a sleek and elegant design.

The Cons Of French Doors

While French doors offer numerous benefits, there are a few factors to keep in mind:

1. Space Requirements

Since French doors open outward or inward, they require adequate clearance space. If you have limited room, alternatives like sliding or folding doors might be more practical.

2. Potential For Heat Loss

Although double glazing and draught proofing improve insulation, French doors with large glass panels may still allow some heat transfer compared to solid doors. However, high-quality materials like Accoya wood and thermal glass can minimise this issue.

Upgrade Your Home With Elegant French Doors From The London Sash Window Company

At The London Sash Window Company, we specialise in designing and installing bespoke French doors that combine elegance, durability, and energy efficiency.

Whether you prefer wooden, UPVC, or aluminium French doors, we have the perfect solution for your home’s interior and exterior. We offer:

• Custom-built to match your property’s aesthetics.
• Double glazing and draught proofing for superior insulation.
• A variety of styles, including mid rails and full-height designs.
• Expert craftsmanship using high-quality materials like Accoya wood.

Contact us today on 020 8015 2097 or email us at office@londonsash.com to schedule a free consultation.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between wooden, UPVC, and aluminium French doors?

• Wooden French doors offer a classic and traditional look, making them ideal for period and heritage properties.
• UPVC French doors are low-maintenance, durable, and cost-effective, providing excellent insulation.
• Aluminium French doors have a sleek, modern appearance, are highly durable, and require minimal upkeep.

2. Can I install shutters on French doors?

Yes! Shutters for French doors or patio shutters add privacy, insulation, and a stylish touch. They are available in various styles, including full-height and café-style shutters.

3. Can French doors be customised?

Absolutely! You can choose from various materials, finishes, and styles. Additional features like mid rails, patio door shutters, and decorative glass can be incorporated to match your home’s aesthetic.

4. Where can I buy high-quality French doors?

If you’re looking for bespoke French doors in London, The London Sash Window Company offers premium, handcrafted options tailored to your needs.

5. Do French doors require a lot of maintenance?

Maintenance depends on the material. Wooden French doors need occasional refinishing, while UPVC and aluminium French doors are low-maintenance and only require occasional cleaning.