Comparing Bifold, Sliding, and French Doors

When it comes to patio doors, your options have generally been limited to two standard door styles: patio doors and French doors. Recently, bifold doors have been gaining in popularity as well. If you’re looking to replace your patio doors with a more high-performing, energy-efficient model, you might be wondering which of these styles is the best possible choice for your Newport News home. Each style has its advantages and drawbacks, and we’re happy to guide you through them.

Here are some of the things you may be considering as you choose between patio doors:

View: There’s nothing better than enjoying a spectacular view, and Newport News has them in spades. Whether you’re near the river or in the suburbs, you’ll want to enjoy the nature that’s surrounding you. Sliding and bifold doors give you a more unobstructed view of the outdoors than French doors will.

Aesthetics: French doors, which are always timeless and elegant, are especially well-suited to older homes. If your home has more of a bold, contemporary look, you’ll likely find yourself drawn to bifold doors. Sliding doors are a Goldilocks choice: they’ll look great in just about any surroundings.

Space: If your patio door is in a tighter space, you’ll want to make sure that the door isn’t making it feel more cramped. For the smallest spaces, sliding doors are the best choice, as they don’t swing in or out. If you’ve got a little more space than that, you might consider a bifold door. Hinged French doors are always a gracious addition to the overall vibe of your patio. And if you are looking for the best of both worlds, sliding French doors can give you that classic style with space saving benefits.

Configuration: You might need to pay attention to how your doors are installed. The good news is that each of these door types are available in flexible configurations that can be altered to suit your home perfectly. Bifold doors are your most flexible option: you’re able to choose the number of panels and the direction in which your doors will open. Sliding doors are also available in a variety of configurations to suit your space and taste. French doors may be configured to open inward or outward, and they can also be installed with fixed windows next to them.

Still not sure which is right for your home? The design team at Mr. Rogers Windows is happy to help. Our replacement process begins with a design consultation, during which time you’ll learn more about our patio door offerings and work with our team to create the perfect patio door for your home. Like our replacement windows, our Renewal by Andersen® replacement doors are durable, energy-efficient, and available with a full range of customization options. You’re sure to find the right fit for your space!