The Complete Buyer’s Guide to Exterior French Doors

French Door Configurations

Today’s French doors might be stationary, swing inwards or outwards, or slide like a patio door. Before choosing the direction of operation for your doors, look at the traffic patterns and furniture layout in your space to make sure there is adequate room for doors to swing. In tight spaces, homeowners can still use French doors by having only one door that swings, sliding French doors, or doors that swing outwards.

In-Swing French Doors

Marvin Elevate in-swing French doors

In-swing doors open into the room, so it’s important to make sure they have space. They might be a pair that opens in the center or combine fixed doors with one door that’s operable.

Out-Swing French Doors

Marvin Elevate out-swing French doors

Just as the name implies, out-swing doors open towards the exterior. They help with traffic flow in small spaces since the doors are completely out of the way. However, they do have drawbacks; out-swing doors are less weather-proof, and require upgraded locking systems for security.

Bi-Fold French Doors

Marvin Elevate bi-fold French doors 

A bi-fold door has hinges on opposite sides of the door panel so it folds like an accordion. This configuration is ideal for larger window walls, as it can hinge several panels together. When the doors are open the panels fold out of the way to create a wide opening.

Sliding French Doors

Marvin Signature Ultimate sliding French doors 

Sliding French Doors combine the operation of a sliding patio door with the wider frame and decorative grilles of a French door. They’re the perfect way to save interior space while maintaining a traditional look.

Fixed French Doors

Marvin Signature Ultimate fixed and in-swing French doors 

Fixed French doors do not open; they’re used to flank operable French doors as part of a larger wall of windows. They create a classic look while providing better energy efficiency. 

Screened Exterior French Doors & Custom Details

Window screens are very important when you’re swinging the doors wide to catch the breeze. French door screens are configured to work with the operation of the door, so they may swing or slide. Unlike common screen doors that are always blocking the view, retractable screens roll up into the door frame, out of sight.

Homeowners can also customize almost any French door with options like low-E glass, built-in blinds, and secure locking systems. 

The Best Materials For Exterior French Doors

Once you’ve decided how your French doors will look and operate, it’s time to choose a frame material. Unlike the wood French doors of the past, today’s door frames are designed for superior energy efficiency, weather resistance, and low maintenance. Most French doors are made from the following materials:

Wood

Marvin Elevate wooden sliding French doors 

Solid wood French doors are ideal for historic homes where authenticity is required. Painted and stained finishes can be customized to suit any architectural style. Wood is not only versatile, it provides excellent insulation. Modern paint coatings and sealants have made wood a durable choice as well. French doors from the premium manufacturer Marvin, are finished with a multi-step paint or stain process that’s baked on for long-lasting performance. Choose from a wide selection of factory finishes, including custom paint colors.

Fiberglass

Marvin Elevate in-swing fiberglass Exterior French doors

Fiberglass is a superior material for exterior French doors because it’s highly impact-resistant and more rigid than vinyl. Because fiberglass expands and contracts at virtually the same rate as glass provides a very stable frame that prevents air leaks. It’s also the most energy efficient frame material and available in dark colors that resist chalking or fading. 

High-density fiberglass doors will maintain their appearance for many years, even in harsh climates. Marvin’s fiberglass French doors are made from its premium composite material, Ultrex® fiberglass.