Switching Sliding Doors to French Doors: Should You Do it?

There are many reasons for a home improvement; whether you’ve moved into a new home and want to make it more bespoke or you’re looking for an upgrade that improves energy efficiency and practicality, a door replacement is one of the most common home projects to embark on.

Many homeowners think about switching their sliding doors to French doors but are unsure whether the investment is really that worth it. Both types of door have been around for a long time, and each have their own appeal and drawbacks. So, we’ve put together a handy guide that will help you determine whether or not switching sliding doors to French doors is a good idea.

Why Homeowners Replace Sliding Doors with French Doors

Replacing sliding doors with French-style doors is a popular choice for many homeowners because of several features the latter has over the former.

First up is appearance. French doors create a distinct, traditional look and have wider bottom rails. On the other hand, sliding doors have slimmer frames and large glass panels, which offers a more contemporary aesthetic.

Of course, the way each door type opens is different, with French doors swinging open, which requires sufficient space without obstruction, while sliding doors roll along a track. While the gliding movement of sliding doors is quite easy to use, sliding doors are more prone to debris buildup, requiring more maintenance to ensure ease of use and functionality. French doors also offer tighter weather sealing, as they compress firmly around the entire frame.

Benefits of Switching Sliding Doors to French Doors

Enhanced Kerb Appeal

French doors are a relatively affordable investment that will bring long-term value thanks to them increasing your home’s kerb appeal. French doors can suit many areas of the home, including patios, front entrances, hallways, and conservatories, so you’ve got lots of options to choose from for your home upgrade.

No matter where they’re installed, they offer wide frames that provide a more heritage-style finish. Standard French doors feature two panels, but they can feature sidelights for an even more expansive finish.

Improved Ventilation

Sliding doors are known for their wide openings and ability to have both doors open at the same time, unlike bi-fold doors, where the panels slide back onto each other so only part of the whole door opens. This improves ventilation and maximises airflow to create a more comfortable living environment, especially during heatwaves and the warmer months.

Wider Access to Outdoor Spaces

Another benefit of French doors is having the ability to open both door panels. This creates a wide opening and a valuable transition from the indoors to the outdoors. This is also beneficial for moving furniture and entertaining guests both inside the home and in the garden.

Increased Property Value

French doors can increase the value of a property thanks to being a very desirable door to have. Stylish, high-quality French doors allow plenty of natural light to flow through the home, and the timeless aesthetic will never go out of style, and there are plenty of options for materials and hardware to suit both traditional and contemporary homes.

Greater Design Flexibility

Speaking of design options, there’s plenty to choose from with French doors. They’re available in materials like uPVC, wood, aluminium and composite, with various finishes and colours too.

Hardware like handles often comes with more variety too compared to sliding doors, so French doors come with much more customisability to suit your preferences and complement your interior design.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

More Clearance Space Required

While French doors offer expansive openings, you’ll need enough space either inside or outside your home for them to open without obstruction. You may have to move furniture around or adjust layouts for your French door replacement.

Reduced Unobstructed Views

The wider frames and sightlines of French doors don’t offer the same unobstructed views as sliding doors. This is because sliding-style doors have slimmer profiles which provide bigger views and more sunlight to enter. If you prefer a more expansive open view to your garden area, sliding doors might be the better choice.

Weather Exposure When Open

Many people get frustrated with French doors during windy and rainy weather. When they’re opened, sometimes even a small gust of wind can cause French doors to slam closed, which not only creates a loud bang but can damage the door over time.

Luckily, there are a few tricks to stop French doors blowing in the wind, but it’s something to consider before replacing your sliding doors, which stay in place when open, even during adverse weather.

Potentially Higher Installation Costs

Sliding doors are often cheaper to install because of the simpler sliding mechanisms compared to French doors and their more complex hinge system.

While many sliding door to French door replacements can be relatively straightforward with standard UK openings, you might have to add on costs for structural masonry adjustments and other exterior alterations.

This will add on material and labour costs. However, if you’re really looking to save, going for materials like uPVC is generally the most affordable material.

Ongoing Maintenance Requirements

While French doors typically require less maintenance than sliding doors, you shouldn’t overlook it. French doors require at least annual maintenance for hardware like hinges, handles and seals, and materials like timber should be treated often to ensure long-term performance.

Can You Replace Sliding Doors with French Doors?

Yes, in most cases, existing sliding patio doors can be replaced with French doors. Whether the conversion is straightforward depends on the size of the current opening, the condition of the surrounding structure and the type of French doors being installed.

For most UK homes, replacing sliding doors with French doors follows a relatively standard process:

1. Initial survey and measurements:

A contractor or installer measures the existing opening and assesses the surrounding structures. They will check whether standard-sized French doors can fit the opening or whether alterations are needed.

2. Removal of the existing sliding doors:

The sliding door panels, frame and any associated fittings are carefully removed. The opening is inspected for damp, rot or structural movement or other damage.

3. Preparing the opening:

If the existing opening matches the dimensions of the new French doors, only minor adjustments may be needed. Larger or smaller French doors may require modifications to the opening, such as adding brickwork, reducing width or enlarging the aperture.

4. Installing the new frame:

The French door frame is positioned, levelled and securely fixed into the opening. Installers ensure the frame is square to prevent operational issues later.

5. Fitting the doors:

The door panels are hung and adjusted so they open and close smoothly. Locks, handles, hinges and any multipoint locking systems are installed and tested.

6. Sealing and finishing:

Gaps around the frame are insulated and sealed to improve weather resistance and energy efficiency. Internal and external trim work is completed, and the area is cleaned and inspected.

A professional survey is the best way to determine whether the existing opening can be reused as-is or if additional building work will be required. For most straightforward replacements, they can often be completed within a day, but any structural alterations will extend the installation timeline.

French Doors vs Sliding Doors: Which is Better?

Let’s do a quick roundup comparing French doors and sliding doors. One isn’t necessarily better than the other; it all comes down to your preferences, budget and existing structure.

Appearance

• French doors: Wide frames, traditional aesthetics but more obstructed views when closed.
• Sliding doors: Slim lines, large glass panes for a more modern aesthetic.

Space requirements

• French doors: require sufficient space to open inwards or outwards but create large openings and transitions when open.
• Sliding doors: Space-saving design with panels sliding on a track on top of each other.

Energy efficiency

• French doors: The larger frames help prevent heat loss and, when open, allow excellent airflow during warm weather.
• Sliding doors: Larger glass panes allow more heat to escape during colder seasons, but the tight seals do help prevent drafts when closed.

Cost

• French doors: uPVC French doors are often the most affordable, and materials like composite and features like double glazing and labour for installation can add to the overall cost.
• Sliding doors: Simpler mechanisms can mean cheaper installation, but high-end or larger sliding systems can increase costs significantly.

Choosing the Right French Doors for Your Home

So if you’ve decided on switching sliding doors to French doors, here are a few options you can choose from to make an informed decision:

• uPVC French doors – A popular choice for homeowners seeking an affordable, low-maintenance option. They offer good thermal efficiency and are available in a wide range of colours and finishes.

• Aluminium French doors – Known for their slimmer frames, modern appearance and durability. Aluminium doors are particularly well suited to contemporary homes and can accommodate larger glazed areas.

• Timber French doors – A traditional option that complements period and heritage properties. Timber provides a natural aesthetic but typically requires more maintenance than uPVC or aluminium.

• Double and triple glazing – Double glazing is the standard choice for most homes, offering a balance of energy efficiency and cost. Triple glazing may provide additional insulation and noise reduction in certain locations.

• Opening configuration – French doors can be configured to open inwards or outwards depending on the available space and homeowner preferences. The right arrangement can improve access and make the most of the surrounding area.

Explore Our Range of Doors

If you’re after a set of French doors for your home, at Green Doors we have a wide stock of ready-to-install new and pre-owned options. Explore our collection to discover the ideal style and size.

If you have questions about your order, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Green Doors team.

Frequently Asked Questions