Door buying advice
French doors vs sliding patio doors
Choose between hinged French doors and sliding patio doors by considering clear opening, swing space, panel layout and your room.
French doors swing on hinges; sliding patio doors move along a track. The best fit depends on the opening and how you use it.
Swing space or sliding space?
French doors need room for the leaves to open and close. Sliding panels avoid that swing but overlap, so part of the opening remains covered. Map the furniture, patio and usual walking route before choosing.
How much of the entrance opens?
Ask for clear opening dimensions for the specific system rather than comparing only the total frame width. Confirm which French leaf opens first and how the second leaf is secured.
Glass, privacy and threshold
Both systems can use glazed panels. Discuss privacy, frame sightlines, drainage, external exposure and the transition from the internal floor to the patio.
What to put in the quote
Request the exact frame, glass, locks, handles, threshold and fitting scope, including removal and finishing exclusions. Link your choice to the complete installed specification.
Ask about your door project
Share your postcode and the type of complete door project you are considering. The team can confirm whether it is within the current offer.
Request a door quote