French doors are a timeless, elegant choice that can transform the look and feel of your home's entryway. Whether you're updating a patio entrance or upgrading your front facade, choosing a French door means balancing style, function, and practicality.
At doors.com, you’ll find a curated selection of high-quality French front doors available in wood, fiberglass, and iron—all designed to enhance natural light, improve curb appeal, and elevate your space.
Before you make your purchase, it’s important to understand the key factors involved in choosing a French door—from sizing and materials to security and style. Use this guide to make an informed decision that suits your home’s architecture and your personal needs.
7 Factors to Consider Before Buying a French Door
Here’s an expanded version of your French door buying guide, tailored specifically for doors.com and focused solely on products available through the site:
1. Door Size and Measurements
Getting the right size is one of the most critical steps when choosing a French door. On doors.com, French doors come in a variety of standard and customizable widths, generally ranging from 48 inches (4 ft) to 72 inches (6 ft), and most are 80 inches (6 ft 8 in) tall.
Before ordering, take precise measurements of your current door opening—height, width, and wall depth. Also, consider whether you need a pre-hung unit or a slab-only door if you’re retrofitting. If your entryway is non-standard, doors.com offers custom size options on many wood and iron French doors to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Material Selection
The material of your French door impacts its durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic. At doors.com, French doors are primarily offered in the following materials:
Wood
Ideal for traditional and rustic homes, wood French doors offer timeless beauty and natural warmth. Choose from premium species like mahogany, knotty alder, and Douglas fir. Many models on doors.com come prefinished or ready to stain/paint.
Fiberglass
A great low-maintenance alternative to wood, fiberglass mimics woodgrain textures while offering better insulation and weather resistance. It’s also less prone to warping and cracking, making it ideal for varying climates.
Iron
For maximum durability and security with a dramatic look, iron French doors are unmatched. Doors.com carries handcrafted iron models with arched tops, scrollwork, and clear or frosted glass.
3. Glazing Options
French doors are defined by their glass panels, so glazing is an essential factor to consider:
Double or Triple Glazing
Available on most models at doors.com, these multi-pane constructions offer better insulation and noise reduction. Great for both hot and cold climates.
Low-E Coated Glass
Found in energy-efficient models, this special coating reflects infrared heat while allowing natural light to pass through, helping keep interiors comfortable year-round.
Tempered or Laminated Safety Glass
Most French doors on doors.com feature safety-rated glass that resists shattering, improving security and reducing injury risks.
4. Security Features
Security is often a concern with French doors due to the amount of glass involved. Fortunately, modern models on doors.com are designed with robust protection in mind:
Multi-Point Locking Systems
Many double French doors now come equipped with multi-point locks that secure the door at the top, middle, and bottom for superior strength.
Reinforced Frames & Hinges
Reinforced hardwood or steel frames and heavy-duty hinges prevent forced entry and sagging over time.
Impact-Resistant Glass
Select models come with impact-rated glass, ideal for hurricane-prone or high-risk areas.
5. Swing Direction and Space Considerations
When choosing a French door, consider how it will open and how much space you have available:
In-Swing Doors
These open into the interior space and are common for front or patio entries. Ensure you have enough clearance inside the home.
Out-Swing Doors
Ideal for saving space indoors or enhancing security (harder to force open). Be sure your porch or patio allows for unobstructed outward movement.
Doors.com lists the swing direction on each product page, making it easy to choose the right option.
6. Aesthetic and Design Choices
French doors should complement your home’s architectural style. At doors.com, you’ll find designs ranging from traditional to ultra-modern:
Grille Styles
Choose from full-view, divided-lite, or decorative wrought iron grille inserts. These details can match Craftsman, Mediterranean, or Farmhouse exteriors.
Arched or Square Tops
Many wood and iron French doors are available with arched tops for a softer, elegant silhouette.
Finishes and Textures
Whether you want a prefinished wood grain or a sleek matte black iron frame, doors.com offers a variety of finishes and textures to personalize your selection.
7. Budget and Installation Costs
French doors range widely in price depending on size, material, and finish:
Wood Models
Higher-end species like mahogany cost more but offer unmatched elegance. Expect to invest more in custom or arched models.
Fiberglass & Iron Options
Fiberglass doors offer great value, while iron options are pricier due to their construction and weight, but deliver top-tier security and durability.
Installation Costs
Professional installation is recommended for proper sealing, frame alignment, and long-term performance, especially for larger double doors. Doors.com sells pre-hung systems to simplify the process.
Different Types of French Doors
French doors are a charming addition to any home, with a range of types to choose from. Here we’ll take a closer look at these different types.
1. Mahogany True Divided Lite (TDL) French Doors
These beautiful mahogany French doors bring an elegant, traditional feel to any space. With authentic true divided lites (TDL), the glass panes are separated by individual muntins, which allow the light to filter through in a classic, old-world style.
Mahogany is a premium material known for its rich color, durability, and resistance to the elements, making these doors an excellent choice for exterior applications.
Where they work best:
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Traditional or colonial-style homes
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Grand entrances or formal dining areas
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Homes in need of a door that adds elegance and warmth
Benefits:
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Adds a timeless and classic aesthetic to any space
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Mahogany's natural durability makes it ideal for both interior and exterior use
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Provides strong insulation properties for energy efficiency
Explore Mahogany TDL French Doors
2. Knotty Alder French Doors
For a rustic or more natural look, knotty alder French doors are an excellent choice. Known for its character-filled appearance, the wood features distinctive knots, grain patterns, and color variations.
This door style works perfectly for cabins, farmhouses, or rustic-themed homes that want to create a warm and inviting entrance.
Where they work best:
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Farmhouses, rustic cabins, and country homes
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Areas where you want to bring in a warm, earthy atmosphere
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Indoor spaces like living rooms or kitchens connecting to a garden or patio
Benefits:
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Unique natural knots and grain patterns ensure each door is one-of-a-kind.
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Knotty alder is a sturdy and long-lasting wood, perfect for high-traffic areas
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The warm tone of the wood complements a variety of home styles, adding charm and character
Explore Knotty Alder French Doors
3. Fiberglass Divided Lite French Doors
Fiberglass is a durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood doors, offering energy-efficient properties and excellent resistance to the elements.
The divided lite design in these fiberglass French doors gives you the same charming look of individual glass panes, but with the added benefits of fiberglass, such as improved insulation and a longer lifespan.
Where they work best:
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Homes in areas with extreme weather conditions
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Spaces where energy efficiency and low maintenance are key priorities
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Modern or traditional homes looking for a classic yet durable door
Benefits:
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Fiberglass offers excellent energy efficiency and insulation
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Requires very little maintenance compared to wood doors
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Available in various finishes and styles to match your home’s décor
Explore Fiberglass Divided Lite French Doors
Different Styles of French Doors
As there are different types of French doors to choose from, there’s also a variety of different styles. Let’s explore these in closer detail.
1. Traditional French Doors
Traditional French doors are the iconic, classic style of French doors. Typically featuring two symmetrical glass panels with divided lites, these doors are perfect for creating a charming, old-world aesthetic.
Their classic design makes them suitable for almost any home, from rustic to modern, adding elegance and natural light to any space.
Where they work best:
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Colonial, Victorian, or other traditional home styles
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Connecting living rooms or formal dining rooms to patios or gardens
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Main entryways, where symmetry and formality are key
Benefits:
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Versatile and timeless design that complements both traditional and modern settings
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Allows plenty of natural light into your space while maintaining privacy
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Available in a variety of materials such as wood, fiberglass, and iron
Explore Traditional French Doors
2. Arched Top French Doors
For homes looking for a bit more architectural flair, arched top French doors are a perfect option. With their elegant, curved tops, they provide a refined and sophisticated look that can enhance any entryway.
These doors work wonderfully for both traditional and modern settings, adding an extra level of charm and elegance to the design.
Where they work best:
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Mediterranean, Spanish, or Gothic-style homes
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Tall entryways or rooms with high ceilings where you want a grand entrance
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Outdoor patios or balconies needing a more elegant design
Benefits:
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Adds a soft, elegant curve that enhances the overall architecture
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Ideal for making a statement and adding visual interest to your home’s exterior
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Perfect for entryways that require a unique, standout feature
Explore Arched Top French Doors
3. Contemporary French Doors
Contemporary French doors combine sleek, modern design with the functionality of traditional French doors. These doors usually feature larger glass panels and streamlined frames with fewer or no divided lites.
They create an open and airy feel, ideal for contemporary homes where maximizing natural light is a priority.
Where they work best:
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Modern or minimalist-style homes
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Connecting modern kitchens or living areas to the outdoors
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Homes with large open spaces or views that you want to highlight
Benefits:
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Maximizes natural light by featuring expansive glass panels
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Sleek, clean lines that complement a minimalist or modern design
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High-energy efficiency and weather resistance due to modern materials
Explore Contemporary French Doors
4. French Doors with Sidelights
French doors with sidelights feature additional glass panels on either side of the door, creating an even more open and airy feel. This design increases the amount of natural light entering the room and can make the space appear larger and brighter.
Sidelights are also a great way to add visual interest and elegance to the door.
Where they work best:
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Grand entrances or formal spaces
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Hallways or rooms where you want to increase natural light
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Entryways needing extra illumination or a touch of sophistication
Benefits:
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Increases the amount of light flowing into the room, brightening up the space
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Enhances curb appeal with an elegant and refined look
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Provides additional visibility to make entryways feel more inviting
Explore French Doors with Sidelights
5. French Doors with Blinds Between Glass
For added convenience, French doors with blinds between the glass panes provide an easy way to control privacy and light. The blinds are sealed between two panes of glass, making them easy to maintain while providing adjustable light and privacy control.
This style is perfect for homes where cleanliness and simplicity are a priority.
Where they work best:
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Spaces needing privacy and light control, like bedrooms or bathrooms
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High-traffic areas where traditional window blinds may be difficult to maintain
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Homes that value streamlined, low-maintenance designs
Benefits:
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No need to clean or dust the blinds since they are contained between the glass
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Adjustable privacy and light control for greater comfort
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Low-maintenance and sleek design
Explore French Doors with Blinds Between Glass
French Door Sizes Explained: Choose the Right Size for Your French Door
Selecting the correct size for your French door is crucial to ensure proper fit and functionality. Here's how to determine the ideal dimensions:
Measure the Rough Opening
Before selecting a door, measure the rough opening—the space where the door will be installed. This measurement should include the width and height of the opening. Ensure to account for any framing or structural elements that might affect the door's fit.
Be Aware of Standard French Door Sizes
Standard French doors typically come in the following dimensions:
Height
80 inches (6 feet 8 inches) is the most common height.
Width
Common widths include 36 inches, 48 inches, 60 inches, and 72 inches.
For example, a pair of 36-inch doors would have a total width of 72 inches. It's essential to choose a size that matches your rough opening, allowing for proper clearance and installation.
Bear in Mind Ceiling Height
If your home features high ceilings, you might opt for taller doors. French doors are available in heights up to 96 inches (8 feet), providing a grand and open feel to the space. Ensure your rough opening can accommodate the taller door dimensions.
Consider Custom Sizes for Unique Openings
If your rough opening doesn't match standard sizes, many manufacturers offer custom-sized French doors. This option ensures a perfect fit and aesthetic alignment with your home's design.
French Door Size Chart
|
Door Type |
Width (inches) |
Height (inches) |
Common Use |
|
Single |
24–36 |
80–96 |
Interior spaces |
|
Double |
48–72 |
80–96 |
Exterior patios/decks |
|
Custom |
Varies |
Varies |
Unique openings |
How to Pick the Best French Door Materials
Selecting the right material for your French door affects its durability, appearance, and maintenance. Here are some common materials:
Wood
Wooden French doors offer a classic and timeless aesthetic. They can be stained or painted to match your interior decor. However, wood requires regular maintenance to prevent warping and damage from moisture.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass doors are durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance. They can mimic the appearance of wood and are resistant to warping, cracking, and rotting. Fiberglass is an excellent choice for both interior and exterior applications.
Iron
Iron French doors provide enhanced security and durability. They are resistant to dents and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Iron doors are often used for exterior applications where security is a priority.
Aluminum
Aluminum doors are lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion. They offer a modern look and are often used in contemporary home designs. Aluminum is also low-maintenance and energy-efficient.
How to Order French Doors at doors.com
Following a few simple steps, you can order the perfect French doors for your home at doors.com:
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Browse our French door collection.
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Select the door type, style, and material that suits your project.
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Enter your precise measurements (width, height, thickness, handing).
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Choose hardware and finish options.
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Review your order details and add to cart.
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Complete your secure checkout.
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Your door will be delivered directly to your home, ready for installation.
How to Buy a French Door That Meets All Your Needs: Key Takeaways
Looking for the perfect French door for your home? Here’s a breakdown of what you need to consider:
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Measure accurately before choosing your interior door.
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Pick the right type and swing for the room.
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Match the material and style to your home design.
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Factor in insulation, durability, and budget.
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Use our product filters and buying guides to simplify your search.
FAQs
How do French doors work?
French doors consist of two hinged panels that swing open from the center, creating a wide and elegant entryway. They can open inward or outward, depending on the installation, and are commonly used to connect indoor spaces to patios, gardens, or other rooms.
What does a French door look like?
A French door typically features a frame around one or more transparent or translucent panels (called "lites") that may extend for most of its length. The design allows for maximum light penetration and provides a classic, symmetrical appearance.
What is the standard size of French doors?
Standard French doors are commonly 80 inches in height and 72 inches in width, consisting of two 36-inch-wide doors. However, sizes can vary, and custom dimensions are available to fit specific openings.
Are French doors energy efficient?
Modern French doors are designed with energy efficiency in mind, featuring insulated glass, weather stripping, and energy-efficient materials that help maintain indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs.
How wide is a French door?
Each panel of a French door is typically between 30 and 36 inches wide, making the total width for a pair approximately 60 to 72 inches. Widths can vary based on design and customization.
What do French doors look like?
French doors are characterized by their elegant design, featuring multiple glass panes extending the length of the door, allowing natural light to flood the interior spaces. They often have symmetrical panels and can include decorative elements like grilles or muntins.
How much do French doors usually cost?
The cost of French doors varies based on materials, design, and customization, typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, including installation. High-end or custom options may exceed this range.
What are the best French door designs?
The best French door design depends on your home's style and personal preferences. Popular designs include traditional divided lites, contemporary full-glass panels, and doors with decorative grilles or sidelights.
How to secure your French doors?
Securing French doors involves installing robust locking mechanisms, such as multi-point locks, using impact-resistant glass, and reinforcing the door frame and hinges. Additional security measures include security bars and door alarms.
Are French doors safe?
When properly installed with quality materials and security features, French doors are safe and secure. Modern designs include reinforced glass, sturdy frames, and advanced locking systems to deter unauthorized entry.
Can French doors be locked?
Yes, French doors can be securely locked using various mechanisms, including deadbolts, multi-point locking systems, and security bars. These locks provide enhanced protection against forced entry.
Why are they called French doors?
French doors originated in 17th-century France during the Renaissance period, characterized by their symmetrical design and multiple glass panes, allowing more light into rooms. The term "French door" reflects their country of origin and distinctive style.
Are French doors the same as hinged patio doors?
While both French doors and hinged patio doors can serve similar functions, French doors specifically refer to a pair of doors with glass panes that open from the center. Hinged patio doors may include single or double doors and can vary in design.
How to measure for new French doors?
To measure for new French doors, determine the width and height of the existing door opening, accounting for the frame and any trim. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom, and the height on both sides, using the smallest measurements for accuracy.
How long does it take to complete a French door installation?
Installing French doors typically takes between 2 and 5 hours, depending on the complexity of the project and whether it's a replacement or new installation. Factors such as customization and structural modifications can extend this timeframe.
How to ensure your new French doors match the style of your home?
To match French doors with your home's style, consider factors like architectural design, interior decor, and exterior finishes. Choose door materials, colors, and hardware that complement existing elements.
Doors.com offers a diverse selection of French doors and customization options, enabling you to select doors that harmonize with your home's aesthetic.