CLERA WINDOWS + DOORS · PATIO DOORS GUIDE

What Is a French Patio Door?

A French patio door is a style of patio door featuring two full-length glass panels hinged on opposite sides of the frame that swing open, either inward or outward, to create a wide, unobstructed opening.

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The French door style was created in 17th-century France to help enhance natural light in interior spaces. French patio doors are still loved in modern homes for their classic elegance, wide opening, and curb appeal.

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Advantages of French Patio Doors

Wide Opening: Both panels fully open for unobstructed access, ideal for moving furniture, entertaining, and for lots of natural light.
Elegant Aesthetic: Well-suited for traditional, transitional, and upscale contemporary home designs.
Design Flexibility: Available with decorative grilles, transoms, and sidelights.
Versatile Swing Direction: Configurable to open either inward or outward.

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Space Requirements‍

French doors require clearance to swing, which, depending on the direction, could be either inside or outside the home. This makes them less suitable for spaces where furniture placement, deck layout, or overall space is constrained, so keep this in mind when deciding which style is right for you.

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Why Clera? Clera French patio doors are available in inswing and outswing configurations with a range of decorative glass and grille options to complement any architectural style.