If you have an older home with sliding glass doors, you should definitely give serious thought to sliding glass door replacement.  Old sliding glass doors are the most energy inefficient aspects of older homes and can result in greatly increased energy bills, not to mention drafts and moisture. Replacing them can work wonders at reducing those energy costs, and can augment both the comfort and the beauty of your home at the same time.

Once you’ve decided it’s time to replace your sliding glass doors, you’ll need to decide what to replace them with and how to get it done right. First things first.

Sliding Door Replacement Options:

There are several aesthetic, energy-efficient, and affordable sliding door options to choose from.  These include Sliding Patio Doors, French Doors, and Patio Doors.

Sliding Patio Doors

If you like the fact that your current doors slide instead of swing open, you may want to consider simply updating your sliding glass doors with newer ones, or sliding patio doors, for your door replacement. New sliding glass doors share the same energy ratings, options, and features as most progressive replacement windows.  Additionally, if you don’t like the economy appearance of sliding glass doors, consider replacing them with sliding patio doors as an alternative.  What’s the difference, you ask? Sliding patio doors feature all the craftsmanship and design possibilities of French and swinging doors, including wood frames, and are some of the most stunning door designs available.

French Doors

Double French doors are breath-taking, and can be a beautiful upgrade when replacing old sliding glass doors. There are a few things to consider when contemplating upgrading to French Doors. For instance, if you want to leave the doors open, they will infringe on your living space. They can also consume limited wall space where you might otherwise place furniture pieces. Lastly, if you are in the habit of leaving your existing sliding glass door open with a screen for air ventilation into your home, you should be aware that French doors do not generally have screens.

Patio Doors

Want the best of both worlds?  You might want to consider center-swing patio doors.  These patio doors offer the beauty and drama of two French doors sitting side-by-side.  Yes, they feature a space-saving design whereby one side is fixed and the other door swings open back against the fixed panel. Most brands of center swing doors come with a sliding screen, so you can continue to enjoy leaving your door open.  And lastly, patio doors are also less expensive than double French doors when it comes to final cost.

How to Get It Done Right

Don’t be fooled into thinking that sliding glass door replacement is an easy process that any homeowner can tackle. Installing doors is tricky business, and you’ll want an experienced professional on your side to make sure it gets done right.  American Windows & Siding of VA, Inc. has been in the door replacement business for over 20 years and can assist you with all aspects of the door replacement process.  From choosing the right option all the way through to the finishing touches, American Windows & Siding of VA, Inc. provides unparalleled service, quality, craftsmanship, and value.  

Here at American Windows & Siding of VA, Inc., we enjoy helping people.  If you have any questions about sliding glass doors, French doors, patio doors, or other door replacement questions of any kind … feel free to contact us anytime and we’ll do our best to answer all your questions!