Essentials for the Midwest: A Buying Guide for Patio Doors

Scenic views can help increase your home’s property value. One way to improve the views from inside your home is to install sliding patio doors, which can give great views of the scenery outside. Keep in mind that not all patio doors are made equal, which is why Renewal by Andersen® of Cincinnati, a top window replacement company in the state, compiled a buying guide to help you choose the right one for your home. 

Measure the Opening for Your New Patio Doors

First off, you need to make sure your new patio doors will be the right fit for your home. If you’re replacing your patio doors, get the exact measurements of your old doors. However, if you’re installing patio doors for the first time, measure the area where you’ll be installing your doors. Make sure to add two inches on each side of the doorway to make room for the doorframe. As a rule of thumb, it’s better to err on the large side of the estimate—filling in gaps is easier than cutting a new section in your wall. 

Keep in mind there’s no guarantee that premanufactured doors will be a great fit for your home. After all, no two homes are exactly the same. The only way to ensure your new doors will be a great fit is to customize them. 

If you’re looking for a contractor that offers customized doors and windows, Renewal by Andersen manufactures each door and window according to our customers’ needs and preferences, ensuring a perfect fit each and every time.

Choose the Right Material for Your New Patio Doors

The lifespan of your new doors will largely depend on how well its material can handle your area’s climate. We’ve given you an overview of the most common door frame materials below: 

• Wood – If you want to enhance your home’s curb appeal, choose wooden patio doors. Wood’s classic appeal can add a touch of sophistication to your exterior. The only drawback is the significant upkeep wooden patio doors need to maintain their visual appeal. 
• Vinyl – If you’re on a tight budget, vinyl doors would be a great choice. Vinyl is the most cost-effective material on the market, but it can be vulnerable to temperature extremes. 
• Aluminum – Aluminum door frames are light and sturdy and don’t need as much upkeep as wooden doors. So long as aluminum doors aren’t scratched or suffer corrosion, they should be able to last for a long time.  
• Composite – For homes in the Midwest, we recommend choosing doors made with Fibrex®, a composite material exclusive to Renewal by Anderson replacement windows and doors. Fibrex can withstand temperature extremes, and resist rot, decay, fungi, flaking, blistering, and corrosion, making it well-suited to the rapidly changing Midwestern climate. 

Select a Style 

The style of your new patio doors would mostly depend on your design preferences and need for privacy. Listed below are the three types: 

• Swinging Patio Doors – These are hinged doors that swing open and are best for entryways with a lot of space for clearance.
• Sliding Patio Doors – Their main appeal is their ease of operation as well as the ample amount of natural light and scenic views they provide. They are great for homes with limited space around entryways.
• French Patio Doors – Characterized by a lot of glass, French patio doors are ideal if you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and class to your home. They are traditionally designed to be hinged but can also come in sliding models.

Find Out Which Features to Add 

A door replacement can be a significant investment, which is why you should focus on maximizing your ROIs. Since patio doors usually have wider glass areas, we recommend adding energy-efficient features to help cut your heating and cooling costs. In addition to its resistance to extreme temperatures, Fibrex frames also have excellent insulation capabilities. 

Find a Qualified Contractor 

Even an energy-efficient door won’t be able to help you cut energy costs if it’s not installed properly. Installation errors can leave behind gaps through which heat can leak out of your home. To make sure your new patio doors are installed correctly, only hire a qualified window contractor. 

Our Signature Service 

Renewal by Andersen of Cincinnati offers a wide variety of premium doors and windows, including French patio doors. To schedule a free consultation with one of our design experts, call us at (866) 609-5033 or leave us a message here. We serve homeowners in Cincinnati, OH, as well as other communities in Ohio.