Choose the right patio door to transform your home’s view
Spring is just around the corner — the time of year to get outside, dine on the deck, bask in the backyard or relax on the patio.
Is your home ready for outdoor entertaining, or is it time for a remodeling or replacement project? If the answer is the latter, now is the time to get more out of your home by improving access to the great outdoors.
You can do this by replacing your patio door. Doing so can transform your home’s view and comfort year-round. Here’s how to begin the process.
SELECT A STYLE
There are two basic types of patio doors — hinged and sliding.
• Hinged: Hinged patio doors, often called French doors, add an elegant look to your home. Choose from popular options such as two movable doors that swing open from the sides to allow room to move in big furniture or groups of guests, or movable and fixed-door combinations that can hinge from the center, or a single door for simple elegance. You can also create a custom design, complete with sidelights or transom windows, to span your home’s unique architecture.
• Sliding: If floor space is limited or if your patio door opens to a balcony, consider a sliding patio door that will take up less floor space. Look for a patio door with the sliding panel on the outside. This way, when the wind blows against the door, the design creates a tighter, more energy-efficient seal to help keep your home comfortable.
Many sliding patio doors from Pella offer the Rolscreen retractable insect-screen option to refresh your home with outside air. Roll the Rolscreen in place to help keep insects out, and when not in use, simply roll it out of sight to blend in with the patio door’s design.
CHOOSE ENERGY-EFFICIENT OPTIONS
Look for the Energy Star label to easily select energy-efficient patio-door styles, such as doors from Pella made with wood, fiberglass or vinyl frames with double- or triple-pane insulating glass options.
• Wood: Consider the natural warmth, beauty and energy-efficiency of wood patio doors. Wood doors are available in virtually any shape, size, grille pattern and exterior color. You can save time by choosing factory-prefinished wood interiors and trim.
• Vinyl: For exceptional energy performance, outstanding strength and weather resistance, consider a vinyl patio door. Low-maintenance vinyl sliding doors will look great for years without the need for painting.
• Fiberglass: For a durable product that withstands extreme weather — and resists dents and high traffic from people or pets — consider a fiberglass patio door. Sleek, strong, highly energy-efficient fiberglass withstands extreme heat, cold and moisture.
With a long-lasting powder coat finish, fiberglass patio doors like the Pella Impervia line don’t need painting and resist sagging and warping, even in hot climates.
DECIDE ON DECORATIVE OPTIONS
Optional between-the-glass shades or blinds help reduce dust accumulation, eliminating the dreaded chore of cleaning blinds or shades. Blinds or shades installed between the doors’ glass panes are a natural for patio doors because the blinds don’t interfere with the operation of the door but make it a breeze to control light and privacy. Plus, shades and blinds without roomside cords are safer options for homes with pets or children.
Choose from grilles that are permanently applied to the exterior of glass surfaces, or look for the added convenience of between-the-glass grille options that make cleaning a breeze. You can also consider removable grilles to transform your home’s look from contemporary to Colonial in a snap.