If you're going to be installing a new patio door this spring, take the time to choose the right one. Your patio door is a major component of your home, which means it should be suited to your specific needs. Here are four tips to help you choose the right patio door for your home.
Get the Style Right
If you're like most people, your mind automatically goes to sliding doors when considering your patio. However, sliding doors aren't your only option. Before you have a new patio door installed, make sure you get the style right. While sliding doors do well for the patio, French doors are also an excellent choice for the patio, especially if you want to open your home up to your yard. Because both doors can be opened, French doors provide additional space so that you can enjoy plenty of fresh air.
Avoid Sun Exposure
If your patio faces either east or west, you need to consider the sun when choosing your new door. Too much sun exposure can reduce the energy efficiency of your home. That's because the sun's rays are absorbed right into the glass. One of the best ways to avoid sun exposure is to choose the right type of glass for your new patio door. The right type of glass will help reduce heat absorption, which will keep your home cooler.
Ensure Upgraded Security
If you're going to have a new door installed on your patio, take the time to upgrade the security. You may have the locks upgraded on your front door, but if you don't take steps to upgrade the locks on your patio door, your home won't be as secure as you need it to be. Unfortunately, burglars won't stop just because the front door is secure. They'll continue around your home until they find the right access point. To ensure the safety and security of your home, insist on upgraded locks for your new patio door.
Take Weather Into Consideration
If you haven't considered the weather, it's time to do that. When choosing a patio door, it's important that you consider the type of weather it will be exposed to on a continual basis. If your door will be exposed to sun, rain, and snow, vinyl may be the best option for you. That's because vinyl won't rot or fade from exposure to the sun, rain, or snow. Not only that, but vinyl is also easy to keep clean, which means you won't need to spend as much time on door maintenance.
Contact a local door installation company for more advice.