Which Patio Door Is Best for My Home?

Written by Expert Contributor Barrett, PB Contracting Company, LLC

Patio doors invite your loved ones and friends into your backyard, deck or patio wonderland. They provide a large amount of natural light, save space and are visually appealing for your home's design. If your patio door is more than 20 years old, chances are its energy efficiency isn’t meeting your expectations. Older patio doors are typically made from aluminum and have little to no glass packages that protect your home from hot and cold air.

When shopping for a new patio door, what type of options do you have? Which option should you choose?

Wood Patio Doors

Wood patio doors provide an elegant look. They can be stained for a traditional design, but they do require periodic upkeep. Wood is not the most energy efficient choice but it can last a long time if taken care of properly. Atmospheric changes such as fading and warping can affect the structure over time. Wood patio doors are quite expensive, and although beautiful to look at, they are typically not the most cost-effective and energy-efficient choice.

Steel and Aluminum Patio Doors:

Steel and aluminum patio doors are more reasonably priced than wood patio doors. They’re also much easier to maintain, but they’re easily dented and scratched. They are not the most energy-efficient option because steel and aluminum both conduct heat and cold easily.

Vinyl Patio Doors:

Vinyl patio doors are a cost-effective and energy-efficient option for replacement. They can withstand outdoor elements without peeling, rotting or corroding. They can even be designed to look like wood or natural materials. Vinyl can crack during extreme temperature changes, but that is rare. Vinyl is an energy-efficient option especially when paired with an energy-efficient LOW-E glass.

Fiberglass Patio Doors:

Similar to vinyl, Fiberglass is a synthetic material that can be made to look like natural materials such as wood. Fiberglass patio doors can last for many years because they require little to no maintenance, they’re extremely energy efficient, and they can withstand extreme weather conditions. Fiberglass is typically a bit more expensive than vinyl but offers many benefits that are worth the cost difference.

When paired with proper installation, both vinyl and fiberglass patio doors are the most cost-effective and energy-efficient choices.

Family Operated Residential Door Specialist

• Interior Pre-hung & Slab Door Installation

• Transom/Sidelight Installation (with Entry)

• Entry & Patio Door Installation

• Storm & Security Door Installation

• Door Capping and Repair Services

• Door Lock Installation

• 15 Years Experience

• Competitive Pricing

• Fully Licensed & Insured