Are you replacing or installing a new patio door in your home? If so, you're likely aware of the multitude of decisions that need to be made, from choosing the right product and style to installation.

With so much information and options to consider, it can seem overwhelming!

But don't worry—we've done our research and have all the knowledge about new patio doors that you'll need for a successful project.

Patio Door Configuration And Standard Sizes

When it comes to choosing a new patio door, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is the configuration and size. Standard sizes range from 5 to 8 feet wide and 6 to 8 feet tall.

However, most patio doors are manufactured in a way that they can fit in the following widths:

• 2-Panel
• 3-Panel
• 4-Panel

Custom-Sized Patio Doors 

In case your opening requires a non-standard size, many manufacturers can provide custom-sized patio doors. However, you must bear in mind that manufacturers will charge a premium price for custom-built doors. How much could that be?

Well, in some cases, the price could go as much as double the price of standard doors.

However, you may talk to the manufacturer’s sales representative to help you reduce the overall cost by offering a smart solution – they can help with that!

Transom Vs. Full Height

Another consideration is whether to opt for a patio door with a transom or go for full height. Transom patio doors have an additional window above the main door, allowing more natural light into your home. However, full-height patio doors offer an unobstructed view and can create a more modern appearance.

Materials 

Sliding patio doors come in different materials, including wood, metal, fiberglass, vinyl, and various cladding combinations. Of these options, vinyl sliding patio doors are the most popular due to their affordability and ease of maintenance.

Though metal sliding patio doors offer the most security, and wooden sliding patio doors are the most energy-efficient, they require more upkeep due to their vulnerability to environmental factors.

When selecting a patio door material, it's important to consider the trade-offs between the desirable features offered by wood, metal, and fiberglass and their maintenance requirements compared to the low maintenance and cost-effectiveness of vinyl patio doors.

Frame 

When choosing your new patio door, you'll also need to select the frame material. Most manufacturers offer frame options that match their door materials, such as wood frames for wooden patio doors. However, some offer separate frame materials, such as vinyl or aluminum.

To ensure good structural integrity and minimal thermal exchange, look for patio doors that feature a multi-chambered design. Additionally, incorporating aluminum reinforcement into the frame will prevent sagging over time, guaranteeing a strong and durable product.

Exterior And Interior Finishes And Colours

Vinyl sliding patio door manufacturers offer two coloring processes for the exterior and interior of their products: vinyl paint and vinyl laminate. While both methods yield visually appealing results, vinyl paint offers a wider selection of color options than vinyl laminates. However, vinyl laminates surpass vinyl paints in terms of durability and warranty period.

Wooden sliding patio doors are available in a vast range of colors and stains, though they require regular touch-ups depending on their exposure to the elements to maintain their aesthetic appeal.

Clad sliding patio doors are typically sold with a limited selection of colors and cladding textures. It's essential to check the warranty fine print, especially in severe weather locations, as cladding may delaminate over time.

Glass

Standard sliding patio doors are usually constructed with tempered safety glass that's stronger than regular glass, and when broken, it breaks into small, safer pieces instead of sharp shards.

For extreme weather conditions (both high and low temperatures), double-glazed or triple-glazed glass is essential to increase sound and weather insulation. Argon gas is typically used between the glass panes, but Krypton gas and Low-E coatings can further enhance the door's energy efficiency.

For enhanced security, laminated security glass is an excellent option since it's durable and resistant to breaking, which means it won't shatter or break into smaller, sharp pieces.

Blinds & Tints

Sliding patio doors can be challenging to shield from sunlight or prying eyes, leading to inconvenience and awkward exterior window treatments. Many window manufacturers have introduced between-the-glass blinds that tilt, raise, or lower magnetically. Though the basic principle is similar across brands, some blinds operate better or are integrated more seamlessly with doors than others.

Between-the-glass blinds are usually only available in standard-sized patio doors, but don't worry -- it's possible to adjust the door opening to accommodate a between-the-glass patio door blind request.

Additionally, several window manufacturers provide tint, coating and privacy glass options that could fit your privacy requirements. Don't hesitate to ask your sales representative about the available choices for the patio sliding door you're considering.

Operation

Patio door manufacturers incorporate various mechanisms in their sliding doors to ensure smooth and quiet operation. When selecting a patio door, look for one that glides smoothly with minimal effort, and it should continue to operate easily during the course of the warranty period.

Generally, longer warranties indicate higher quality products, so it's essential to read the warranty's details to understand what's covered and for how long. In most cases, the cost of the patio door is reflected in the quality and the length of the warranty, so it's worth investing in a product with a comprehensive warranty for long-term satisfaction.

Locking Hardware & Security

Patio door locks are just as important as any other lock, but many people overlook them.

It's a good idea to ask your sales representative about locking options, as they can make a difference.

• Single-point locks are usually standard and should open upwards to act as an anti-lifting deterrent.
• Multi-point locks often have two latches—one which locks up and one that locks down—for a secure grip.
• Deadbolt locks may be positioned at the center, top, or bottom of the patio door, and some allow you to lock them in a slightly open position for ventilation.
• Additionally, keylocks can be installed on both interior and exterior surfaces; enquire with the manufacturer about dual installation.
• Some lower-end sliding doors may have a tendency towards easy entry by lifting the operable door and pulling it forward; higher-end doors usually have an anti-lift component built-in, while others offer optional blocks that get inserted into upper channels to prevent this.

These are some of the most important things you should know if you’re looking to upgrade or install a new patio door!