What Are Patio Doors? A Complete Guide for UK Homes

Patio doors are big glazed doors intended to connect the living areas in your home and the outside world, usually directly onto a garden, patio, or terrace. They give access, as well as bringing a lot of natural light and a lighter, airer feel into your living areas.

Types of Patio Doors

When home owners ask “what is a patio door?”, the answer relies on the type chosen. The most popular in the UK are:

Sliding Patio Doors

These sliding garden doors travel on a track, and a single or multiple panels glide to the side effortlessly. These are perfect for properties that require uninterrupted views into the garden and require a minimum room clearance for running.

French Patio Doors

French doors are made up of two glass doors, either opening outwards or inwards. They offer a traditional, classy appearance and give generous openings that are great for entertainment.

Bi-Fold Patio Doors

Bi-fold doors neatly fold up on one side and give a seamless lead from the room into the garden. They are ideal for a contemporary home in search of a thoroughly modern look.

Advantages of Patio Doors

  • Optimise sunlight: Big glazed panels illuminate any room.
  • Ventilation improvement: Convenient opening designs enable fresh air circulation.
  • Enhance kerb appeal: Desirable glass doors add value and personality.
  • Energy-efficient glazing: Insulating frames and double glazing are a modern patio door.
  • Secure designs: Multi-point locking systems provide peace of mind.

Selecting the Perfect Patio Door

When choosing patio doors, keep in mind:

  • Space: Sliding doors need less space, yet French or bi-fold ones need larger clearance.
  • Style: Match your door design to your property’s architecture.
  • Framing material: uPVC, aluminium, or composite frames have a few advantages.

Why Patio Doors by St Helens Windows?

At St Helens Windows, we design and fit a vast array of uPVC and aluminium patio doors in the North West. Sliding, French, or bi-fold are all covered by our doors, both in style, build, and thermal efficiency.

Ready to Upgrade?

Call us now on 01744 611203 and book a no-obligation, free quotation and discover how patio doors can revolutionise your home.