A Really Beautiful Home

Selecting Interior French Doors Guide

When you are selecting the style of doors for your home you have many different options from which to choose. One of the most versatile types of doors is interior French doors, which will provide both light and privacy at the same time. While these doors were originally exterior doors to patios or verandas, they are now commonly used on the interior of buildings as well.

French doors originated in the French Colonies to maximize air flow throughout the house during hot and humid weather. Originally French doors extended from floor to ceiling to allow maximum light and airflow and traditional the door set incorporated double doors that swung open from both sides. These doors have many divided lights, which are the distinguishing feature of French doors.

Nowadays these doors come in numerous styles. Traditionally these doors were made form made from wood but in recent years they are also available in aluminum or plastic (PVC). However for the inside wood is the most popular for matching in with other decoration internally.

Sizes available can be standard of the shelf at 6′ 8″ in height and come in various widths of 4′, 5′, or 6′. However, many manufacturers will make custom door units to any size that fits your architectural style and scale.

The number of panes of glass in the French doors can vary. A typical French door would have 12 or 15 glass lights. You can order any number of lights to fit your decor. Some doors can be ordered with just one large pane top to bottom in a surround frame for maximum light transfer.

In addition to the traditional center swing open type French doors are now available that slide open to the side, bi fold, and multi-panel folding doors. One very interesting style of doors are disappearing doors that slide into a recess in the wall (essentially just pocket doors) that can be opened to expand rooms or closed again to create separate rooms. You are only limited by your imagination as to the configuration of these doors.

Modern French doors can also be ordered with built-in blinds, opaque glass, colored glass, and a variety of other custom features. Not to mention the different types and features found in exterior French doors, which have their own unique set of features.