Your Complete Guide on French Doors: Definition, Styles, and Benefits

What are French doors? It’s a question we hear quite often, and as nationwide providers helping  homeowners update their windows, doors, and more, we’re happy to explain.

Whether you’re planning a remodel or just curious, we’ll walk you through the basics and benefits. For more insights, browse our articles or connect with one of our experts directly. You can also view our broader door offerings through our exterior doors and French doors pages.

What Is a French Door?

French doors, sometimes referred to as French windows, are simply a set of two doors, usually hinged, that swing open from the center. What really sets them apart is their extensive use of glass. Most of the door’s surface is made up of individual glass panes or a single large pane framed by wood, fiberglass, or other sturdy materials. The result is a door that connects two spaces and invites natural light to flow freely between them.

Other things that set these apart are that they work in pairs, opening wide to create a much larger passage than your typical single door, perfect for bringing in more fresh air. Compared to sliding glass doors, French doors offer a more classic architectural look. Plus, you’ll have the option of opening one side or both. And unlike solid interior doors, which block light and limit visibility, these create a sense of openness, even when closed.

History and Evolution of the French Door

Traditional French doors have been brightening up homes for hundreds of years, and of course their story starts in France. These doors debuted back in the 17th century, right around the time the Renaissance influenced everything from art and architecture to how homes were designed. French architects designed these doors to offer more natural light, symmetry, and an open feel rather than boxed in.

Over time, their look evolved, but the core concepts remained the same. You’ll still find glass-heavy panels framed by wood or other materials that open wide to let in light, air, and a clear view.

You’ll find modern French doors in just about every style of home, from classic colonials to modern builds. And thanks to improvements in energy efficiency, weatherproofing, and customization, they’ve gone from strictly decorative to fully functional, blending beauty and practicality. Homeowners looking for more customization can explore options like custom doors for design flexibility.

Benefits of French Doors

These versatile doors bring a whole list of perks to the table. Let’s start with some reasons why homeowners choose French doors:

• Natural light: Mostly made of glass frames, these doors act almost like floor-to-ceiling windows, flooding rooms with bright light and a welcoming feel.
• Easy indoor-outdoor flow: French patio doors that open to a deck or garden make moving between inside and outside seamless.
• Flexibility functionality: Want a little airflow? Crack one door open. Need a wide opening to move furniture or get a stronger breeze? Open both.
• Timeless style: They work with almost every architectural style, blending form and function without clashing with your existing design.
• Increased home value: They’re a sought-after feature that can improve curb appeal and interior charm, potentially boosting your home’s value.

That’s not to say these doors are perfect for every home. While they have plenty of strengths, here are a few downsides to consider before committing:

• Space needs: Since they swing open, either out or in, it may be tricky in tighter spots to get enough clearance to let them function fully. Plus, you need double the space of a traditional door for French door installation.
• Energy efficiency: Older or lower-quality French doors may lose some insulation compared to solid doors.
• Maintenance: With all those glass panels comes extra cleaning, especially if you’re using them to access outdoor spaces where dust and fingerprints pile up faster.
• Security considerations: While modern locks and reinforced glass help, all that glass adds a larger breakable surface than a standard door. Plus, it may be harder to protect such a large surface in extreme weather conditions.
• Cost factor: Depending on the materials, size, and customization you want, these entryways can cost more upfront than simpler options.

For homeowners comparing front-entry options, our guide on entry door ideas offers additional style considerations.

Types and Styles

French doors might all share the same basic idea, but that doesn’t mean they all look or function the same way. There are many options out there, with styles matching your home’s personality and personal taste.

Hinged French Doors

This is the definition of traditional French doors: two doors hinged on either side, meet in the middle, and swing open from the center. They’re popular for patios, garden doors, or even interior dividers between living spaces. Many homeowners pair them with patio doors for coordinated outdoor access.

Sliding French Doors

Love the look of French doors but tight on space? Sliding versions bring the same glass-forward style, but instead of swinging open, they glide along a track, taking up less space.

Exterior French Doors

When you want to blur the line between your indoor and outdoor spaces, exterior doors are the way to go. These connect living rooms to patios, kitchens to backyards, and bedrooms to balconies, combining function, beauty, and gorgeous natural light.

Sizing and Measuring French Doors

If you’re planning for your home’s French door installation, getting the right size is key. Luckily, standard French door sizes cover a wide enough range to fit most homes.

Standard French Door Sizes and Common Variations

There’s some flexibility for standard French door sizes, but they usually follow familiar patterns. Most sets of two range from 60 to 72 inches wide, though you’ll sometimes see narrower pairs around 48 inches or wider setups pushing 96 inches. Height-wise, the typical range runs from 80 to 96 inches, with 80 inches (the same as most interior doors) the most common.

Of course, custom French door sizes are always an option if your space doesn’t fit neatly into those measurements.

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring French Doors

Measuring a space for French doors isn’t complicated, but it does require precision. Here’s a simple guide to measuring French doors the right way:

• Measure the width from top, middle, and bottom
• Measure the height from floor to top of opening
• Check the depth to ensure the frame fits proportionately
• Account for trim and clearance
• Double check measurements before ordering

Best Window Treatments

One of the biggest perks of French doors — all that natural light pouring in — can also pose a challenge when you’re trying to strike the right balance between privacy and insulation. The right window treatments can make all the difference.

Popular options include:

• Cellular shades
• Roller shades
• Drapery panels
• Roman shades
• Slim-profile blinds

French Door Installation and Maintenance Tips

French door installation requires precision. The doors need to align perfectly so they meet evenly in the center. This is especially important when upgrading with replacement doors so the new frame seats properly.

Once installed, regular care keeps them looking great:

• Clean the glass
• Check weatherstripping
• Lubricate hinges
• Ensure window treatments don’t snag

Conclusion

French doors are a perfect blend of form and function. They bring in natural light, open up your space, and add timeless character to your home. With so many styles and treatments, there’s no shortage of ways to find the perfect French door for your home’s unique look and needs.

If you’re still unsure which type of door fits your style, space, and budget, get in touch with our experts. Our full line of doors makes it easy to compare options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do they call it a French door?
The name comes straight from France. Architects of the 17th century who loved symmetry, glass, and light created these elegant entryways to brighten interiors and connect indoor and outdoor spaces effortlessly.

What is the difference between a double door and a French door?
While both have two door panels, French doors are all about glass to let in light and offer better views. Standard double doors are usually solid or have small windows.

Which is cheaper: French doors or sliding doors?
Sliding doors are usually much cheaper because they’re simpler to manufacture and install.

What is the standard size of a double door?
Most standard double doors run 72 inches wide and 80 inches tall.

What is the smallest width of a French door?
The narrowest sets typically start around 48 inches for the pair.

What are the disadvantages of French doors?
They need space to swing open, require more cleaning due to glass, and can be less insulated than solid doors.