Last Updated on 6 February 2025 by Josh Lucas
There’s a reason French doors have remained a favourite in British homes for centuries.
Timeless, elegant, and incredibly practical, these doors are the perfect blend of style and function.
Whether you’re looking to brighten up your living space, enhance your home’s kerb appeal, or create a seamless transition between your home and garden, French doors tick all the right boxes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before making your choice, from the benefits and material options to maintenance tips and FAQs.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with all the information you need to choose the perfect uPVC French doors or aluminium French doors for your home.
What we’ll cover:
- What are French doors?
- Why choose French doors
- Choosing the right material for your French doors
- GFD Homes French doors
- Installation considerations
- Maintenance tips
- FAQs
What Are French Doors?
French doors are double doors that open outward or inward, featuring large glass panels that allow natural light to flood into your home.
They originated in 17th-century France and have since evolved into a stylish, functional addition to modern and traditional homes alike.
Why Choose French Doors for Your Home?
1. Aesthetic Appeal
French doors add a touch of sophistication to any home, whether you’re going for a classic or contemporary look.
With a wide range of styles, including external French doors, patio French doors, and internal French doors, there’s a perfect match for every home.
2. Increased Natural Light
One of the biggest advantages of French doors is their ability to let in more natural light, making rooms feel larger, brighter, and more inviting.
3. Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection
For homes with gardens, patios, or balconies, French doors exterior options offer a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the flow and usability of your home.
4. Versatility
Whether you need blinds for French doors for added privacy or prefer French door window blinds for a softer touch, these doors can be customised to fit your lifestyle.
5. Energy Efficiency
With advancements in glazing technology, modern uPVC French doors and aluminium French doors offer excellent thermal efficiency, keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer.
Choosing the Right Material for Your French Doors
Selecting the right material for your French doors is crucial for ensuring durability, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. Here’s a closer look at the two most popular options: uPVC French doors and aluminium French doors.
uPVC French Doors:
- Cost-effective and energy-efficient
- Low maintenance and weather-resistant
- Available in a variety of colours and finishes
- Ideal for both traditional and modern homes
- Easy to install, making them a popular choice for DIY homeowners
Aluminium French Doors:
- Sleek, contemporary aesthetics with slimmer frames
- Exceptionally strong and durable
- Resistant to warping, cracking, or fading
- Excellent security and thermal efficiency
- Higher initial investment but longer lifespan and superior durability
GFD Homes French Door Collections
At GFD Homes, we offer a wide selection of high-quality French doors to suit different styles and budgets. Here are some of our best-selling options:
Smart Aluminium French Doors
- Sleek and contemporary design
- Exceptionally strong and secure
- Highly energy efficient with excellent thermal performance
- Available in a variety of colours and finishes
Deceuninck uPVC French Doors
- Traditional and stylish appearance
- Great insulation and energy efficiency
- Low maintenance and durable
- Perfect for classic and modern homes
Industrial Style French Doors
- Ideal for modern, industrial-inspired interiors
- Slimline frames with a striking steel-look design
- High security and energy efficiency
Explore our full collection and find the perfect French doors to complement your home.
Installation Considerations
Before committing to a set of French doors, there are a few factors to keep in mind:
1. Space & Opening Direction
Decide whether you want your doors to open inward or outward. If space is a concern, outward-opening doors are a better option to avoid obstructing your interior.
2. Security Features
Look for multi-point locking systems, reinforced frames, and toughened glass for added security. Aluminium French doors often come with advanced security features, whereas uPVC doors offer reliable protection at a lower cost.
3. Glazing Options
Double or triple glazing will help improve insulation, while laminated or toughened glass can enhance security. If privacy is a concern, consider frosted or tinted glazing options.
4. Ventilation & Privacy
Consider French doors with blinds between the glass panes for an easy-to-maintain solution that offers both privacy and light control. Integral blinds are a great choice for families or homes in busy areas.
5. Installation Challenges
If you’re installing French doors in an older property, ensure that the wall structure can support them.
Seek professional advice if necessary, and ensure proper weatherproofing to prevent draughts and leaks.
How to Maintain Your French Doors
Proper maintenance will ensure your French doors remain functional and visually appealing for years to come.
Keeping your French doors in top condition is easy with a few simple maintenance tips:
Regular Cleaning
Wipe down the glass and frames with a soft cloth and mild soapy water to prevent dirt buildup. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.
Lubricate Hinges & Locks
Apply a suitable lubricant to hinges and locks every few months to prevent stiffness and ensure smooth operation. This also helps in preventing rust formation.
Check for Draughts
Regularly inspect the seals and weatherstripping around your French doors. If you notice any gaps or damage, replace the seals promptly to maintain energy efficiency.
Inspect for Damage
Look out for cracks, misalignments, or signs of wear on the doors and frames. Promptly addressing small issues will help prevent more significant problems down the line.
Seasonal Maintenance
During colder months, check for any air leaks that might allow heat to escape. In warmer weather, ensure the doors open smoothly and provide adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.
Ready to Upgrade Your Home? Call Our Experts Today!
Investing in French doors is one of the best ways to enhance your home’s style, functionality, and energy efficiency.
Whether you opt for uPVC French doors for their affordability and insulation benefits or aluminium French doors for their sleek modern appeal, GFD Homes has a range of options tailored to your needs.
Our expert team is here to help you find the perfect solution! Call us today on 01642 309 576 for friendly, professional advice, or get an instant quote online at GFD Homes.
FAQs for French Doors
Do French doors add value?
Yes! Installing French doors exterior options can significantly boost your home’s value by enhancing its aesthetics, energy efficiency, and indoor-outdoor connectivity.
How do you maintain French doors?
To keep your French doors in top condition, regularly clean the glass and frames with a damp cloth, lubricate hinges and locks, inspect for draughts, and check for any damage.
Seasonal maintenance ensures longevity and optimal performance.
What is the lifespan of French doors?
With proper maintenance, uPVC French doors can last up to 15 years while aluminium French doors can last over 20 years.
The lifespan depends on factors such as material quality, installation, and exposure to weather conditions.
Do French doors add value?
Yes! Installing French doors exterior options can significantly boost your home’s value by enhancing its aesthetics, energy efficiency, and indoor-outdoor connectivity. Studies show that homes with modern French doors often attract more buyers due to their stylish appearance and practical benefits.
Further Reading
- What are the Different Types of Patio Doors?
- French Door Installation in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for UK Homeowners
- French Doors vs Bifold: Which is Best for Your Home?
- How to Secure Outward Opening French Doors?
