French Patio Doors

French Patio Doors That Bring the Outdoors In

Your patio door is the bridge between your home and your backyard. French patio doors make that connection wider, brighter, and more elegant. Volpe Enterprises, Inc. installs French patio doors for homeowners across Southeastern PA, and because we also build decks, patios, and porches, we can plan the whole outdoor transition at once.

What is a French patio door?

A French patio door is a glass door, usually installed in pairs, that leads to a deck, patio, or yard. Traditional French patio doors swing open on hinges. Sliding French patio doors keep the look of wide French frames and grilles while gliding open like a slider.

French patio doors vs. sliding glass doors

Feature Hinged French patio doors Sliding glass doors
Opening width Full opening when both doors swing open About half the opening, since one panel slides
Floor space Needs clearance for the door swing No swing clearance needed
Look Classic, traditional, framed glass Clean and contemporary
Best for Entertaining, wide traffic flow, traditional homes Tighter rooms, walkout basements, modern homes

If you love the look of French doors but are short on space, a sliding French patio door gives you both.

Which way should a French patio door swing?

In-swing doors are the most common choice in Southeastern PA because the hinges and weatherstripping are protected from rain and snow. Out-swing doors free up interior space and can resist strong winds well. We recommend the best option based on your room layout, deck or patio height, and weather exposure.

Planning your patio door with your outdoor space

  • Threshold height: the door sill should sit at the right height above your deck or patio to keep water out.
  • Traffic flow: place doors where furniture and grills will not block the swing.
  • Shade and sun: a covered porch or pergola protects the door and keeps rooms cooler.
  • Matching finishes: coordinate door color with your siding, trim, and railing.

Volpe builds decks, patios, porches, and outdoor kitchens, so your new patio doors and outdoor living space can be designed together.

French patio door options

  • Single, double, and center hinged configurations
  • Sidelites and transoms for extra light
  • Between-the-glass blinds for privacy
  • Simulated divided lites and grille patterns
  • Fiberglass, steel, vinyl, and clad wood frames
  • Retractable screens that disappear when not in use

Schedule your free estimate

Call (610) 539-6730 or request your free estimate online. We will look at your opening, your deck or patio, and how you use the space, then recommend the right French patio door.

Explore more ways to connect indoors and out

Compare all of your options on our Sliding Glass Doors and Exterior French Doors pages, or start planning your backyard with our Decks and Patios services.

French patio doors across Southeastern PA

Volpe Enterprises, Inc. installs French patio doors, hinged patio doors, and sliding French doors for homes in North Wales, Gwynedd Valley, Montgomeryville, Audubon, Trappe, Glen Mills, Devon, West Chester, Chalfont, Furlong, and nearby towns. Homeowners across Montgomery, Chester, and Bucks counties count on our local teams for patio door replacement and new patio door installation.

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French patio door FAQ

Do French patio doors let in more light than sliders? They are similar in glass area. The real difference is the opening: hinged French doors open fully, while sliders open about halfway.

Can I add a screen to French patio doors? Yes. Retractable or hinged screens are available so you can enjoy fresh air without bugs.

How much space do I need for hinged French patio doors? Plan for clear floor space equal to the width of each door panel in the direction it swings. Our team measures this during your estimate.

Can French patio doors be installed where a window is now? Often, yes. We can cut down a wall below a window and add proper support to create a new patio door opening.