French doors have come a long way since their invention in the 17th century and they have evolved a lot too. It has certainly remained a popular option for renovators and the home improvement industry in general.

As you may have noticed from one of your favourite fixer-upper TV shows, the French door trend continues in 2024 and will likely stay for many years to come. While they may further evolve, we believe they will never come out of fashion because of their unique and stylish features.

French doors are not only aesthetically pleasing to the eyes, but their functionalities are amazing too – certainly, a wise investment, whether they’re single French doors, decorative glass doors, hinged doors, or more.

What are French Doors?

French doors are windows that act like doors. The features of French doors are unique because the glass was originally embedded into wooden and metal muntins to let more light through the door. 

French doors in a way helped revolutionise how people lived in their homes. They not only made the indoors much brighter but the elegance and class brought on a whole new understanding of home design.

Compared to nowadays, a door frame used to take up a lot more space within the door and door panels were much smaller than the original French doors due to security reasons – however, production capabilities were not as advanced back then. 

These days large glass panels are more commonly used for French doors and often the muntins are just there for decoration rather than holding the glass in place.

Another very typical feature of French doors is that there are almost always two identical doors side-by-side that characteristically open outwards to create a wide opening into the garden.

French Doors Origin

Our French doors provide a truly elegant look to any home. But why do we call them French doors? In the 1600s, this type of door style was popularised in France and adopted by Europeans across the continent. 

Today, French doors offer a timeless look and feel that can instantly transform any space. With so many customisation options available, it’s no wonder they are still one of the most popular door styles.

Types of French Doors

External French Doors

Image source: phototropic

The purpose of French doors has never changed since their invention – to let more light into the residence as external doors.

External French doors create a passageway from the inside of your home to the outside but they also connect the indoors and outdoors in a unique way in that you can see into your garden from the inside and you can see into the house from the outside (provided the sun is not reflecting too much on the glass). 

Another big advantage of external French doors is that they can be flung wide open to catch a breeze in the hot summer months. French exterior doors are typically used for easy access into the garden, however, you can also opt for French Front doors/Entrance doors of course.

Typical exterior French doors have two identical and symmetric doors that normally open outwards. The glass panels make up most of the door surface and the frame and muntins are reduced as much as possible.

Interior French Doors

Image source: glassfire.org

Interior French doors perfectly connect two living spaces inside your home. One of the many benefits of internal French doors is that you can see through the doors which creates an effect that makes your home appear bigger.

Interior French doors look very similar to French pocket doors. Combining the two in your home creates a consistent style and unique atmosphere that allows for more space in any area without impacting floor space, such as the dining room, living room, or more.

Sliding French Doors

Image source: Pinterest

Sliding French doors as the name suggests, slide to the side creating a wide opening like a standard sliding door. With normal French patio doors, one door side typically remains in place while the other door slides parallel to it. 

With French doors, on the other hand, the double doors slide apart creating a wider opening. Usually, each sliding French door has fixed panes on each side and when the doors are in an open state, they overlap those side panes. 

Another benefit is that French sliding doors are not going to be in your way as they don’t open inward or outward and therefore you don’t have to think about where your furniture can or can’t go to avoid the doors from banging into your treasures. 

Whether you use French doors as sliding patio doors to bring in natural light or as internal doors to open up a space, there are many applications for sliding French doors in a home or commercial property.

Get All of Your Door Needs Sorted with Perth Window and Door

Interested in sliding, natural, interior, or double French doors? Head over to our French doors page to get a better idea of the products we have available or get in touch with us and one of our friendly consultants will be happy to tell you all about our product range. We look forward to hearing from you and installing French doors you will love!

The experienced team at Perth Window and Door Replacement has been servicing Perth for over 25 years, so you can rest assured that their products will be well worth it. Contact the team today and learn how they can help fit your home or business with the best doors on the market.