Styling. Which
fits best in your home: a swinger, slider or French? Consider design options,
such as: grilles, transoms, and decorative glass.Quality. Be sure your patio door is well-insulated and fits tightly into the frame. Be careful when choosing the material: wood has a history of warping, rotting and splitting. Alternative materials such as a fiberglass and steel may prove more durable against the elements.
Security. Decorative glass adds a touch of elegance and class to any home. Multi-point locking systems and reinforced strike plate areas are good security measures you should look for in a patio door. Also, check the integrity of the door itself: is it strong and durable?
Performance. Look for strong weather-stripping and a tight seal when the door is closed. You want the glass to fit snugly within the frame to ensure minimal air infiltration. Patio doors that are energy efficient should feature the ENERY STAR® label.
Low Maintenance. You don't want to spend time cleaning and taking care of your patio door; you'd rather spend all day admiring the outdoors through it! Look for cladding options for a clean, prefinished exterior that's a breeze to care for.
Warranties. As with entry doors, select a product backed by its manufacturer. Investigate the warranties offered to be sure they will meet your needs.