Doors are one of the most important elements in building design. Not only do they add functionality in the way of access and egress, they can also add aesthetic value that beautify and give character to the interior and exterior of a building structure. This article addresses one of the most popular door designs — the french door.
The most popular French door is a double-leaf (double panel) door with each leaf containing one or more glass panes. The panes are also called lites or lights. Depending on configuration, they can be installed to swing in or out.
These doors are derived from the original French “casement door” design. According to historians, the door was first introduced in Versailles, France sometime during the 17th century.
This popular door design delivers two primary benefits. First, they are an excellent choice when you are looking to deliver natural light to a room or area. Second, the attractive and decorative features of the french door make it a sure bet with regards to eye-appeal.
You will find that double French doors are routinely found in higher-end homes. They are used as a replacement for the more mundane and less elegant sliding door design. They are most commonly used for patio and garden entries. Even in less expensive homes, they generally contribute to raising the perceived value, as well as the market value of the home.
French style doors are available in three basic designs…
1. One Lite Doors – These doors have one large glass pane and generally deliver the most natural light. The exception to this statement, is if
2. Divided/Multiple Lite Doors (generally available in 5, 10 and 15 lite designs.
3. Bi fold Doors – This design folds back in an accordion fashion when opened.
Glass Types and Options
Because the lites (glass panes) make up a major part of the door design, there are many available options. Those options include clear glass, frosted, beveled, double-paned, and clear glass with decorative, etched patterns. These options generally consist of “tempered safety glass”; which is pretty much the standard.
In a multi-lite design (four or more glass panes), the glass panes are separated by “mullions.” A mullion is a vertical structural support that divides adjacent glass panes. The horizontal supports are called “transoms.” In conjunction, these two elements form the frames of the lites.
The original construction material of choice for French doors is wood. However, it is not unusual to see these doors constructed with steel and aluminum. The newest construction material that is quickly gaining popularity is PVC.
PVC French doors are constructed of a thermoplastic polymer, called polyvinyl chloride (PVC). While not as elegant as wood french doors, they do have a lot of positive features and benefits.
They generally cost less, require very little maintenance, and are more resistant to wear, scrapes, and scratches. The PVC material can also provide excellent insulation, and unlike wood, PVC French doors are available in a wide range of colors and finish textures.
Door Shopping Considerations
After reading this article, you probably know more about French doors than most building contractors. Now it’s time to turn your attention towards shopping for the right door or doors for your home.
Where will you purchase your door? Select your options and start comparing prices and support services. Who will install your door? Will it be a do-it-yourself project or will you seek a contractor? Check with past customers if you go with a contractor. Where will the door be installed? Patio, garden, interior door? Do you want your doors to open inwards or outwards? What type construction material? Wood or PVC? What type glass to you want in your door?
When in doubt, ask questions and do the research. Having a clear understanding of pricing, choices and options can make purchasing and installing your wood French doors or PVC French doors a breeze instead of a nightmare.