Update your patio door with the latest trends

When seasons change and warmer weather finally begins to envelop your home, it’s natural to want to spend more time outside. Whether you want to hang out on your deck with family and friends or play games with the kids on your lush lawn, the first thing you have to do is make your way out there—which means your patio door will be getting quite a workout. There’s no better time to update or completely change that all-important exit and entryway than now. And thanks to today’s hottest trends, it’s easy to create a patio door that’s as attractive and inviting as it is functional and efficient.

Consider customization

“Today’s homeowners want to be able to customize their patio doors,” says Stacy Einck, brand public relations manager for Andersen Windows and Doors. From materials (such as wood, vinyl and fiberglass) and colors to grille patterns and hardware finishes, there are countless options that will allow you to match the door not only to your tastes, but also to the architectural style of your home. And with the right selections, your backyard exit can become a bona fide design element in your home. “Patio doors are an impressive focal point,” explains Polly Tousey, product manager for the Pella Corporation. “They draw the eye outdoors and spotlight your yard, patio or deck.”

Explore energy-efficient options

As with windows, today’s doors allow you to “go green” in your home. According to Tousey, many patio doors are built with energy-saving, low-E insulating glass filled with argon that meets or exceeds U.S. Energy Star guidelines. These doors help reduce heating and cooling costs throughout the year, and also help reduce ultraviolet (UV) damage to furniture, carpeting and drapes. Einck also recommends examining the way the patio door locks and seals when it’s closed to ensure that it is truly energy efficient.

Know your type

“It’s important to think about how your patio door will fit into your home to choose the right product,” Einck notes. For instance, if your patio door will be opened often, you’ll need to consider the amount interior space that you can allot for its functionality. “Consider a hinged patio door if you have ample space to allow the door to swing in or out and want to make a grand entrance to your outdoor area,” Tousey says,. However, if you don’t have a lot of space for a swinging door, you can opt for a sliding patio door.

Protect your privacy

While your door may always be open, there will be times when you want your privacy. Fortunately, patio doors with features like between-the-glass blinds, fabric shades and decorative panels will allow you to close off your home’s interior to the world. And, Tousey reveals, these features won’t collect dust or get tangled up, making them ideal low-maintenance options.

not ready to replace?

If you want to update your patio door but aren’t ready to replace it, you have an alternative. According to Polly Tousey, product manager for the Pella Corporation, storm doors are a cost-effective option for allowing in more natural light and fresh air when used with an existing door. From full-view storm doors to retractable screens to designer interchangeable glass panels, there are many models that will let the sunshine and breeze in while affordably adding energy efficiency and curb appeal to your home.

function meets fashion

If you want your patio doors to really make a statement, the new Deco Waves adhesive-free films from Wallpaper for Windows could be your answer. Available in three designs, with each available in frost and 10 stained-glass colors, Deco Waves films give you the ability to turn your patio doors into cool, hip, modern and eye-catching pieces of artwork. The average door is decorated in less than 20 minutes and for a very affordable $35 to $50. Then, when it is time to redecorate or move, the Deco Waves can be removed in minutes and even re-used. For more information, visit www.wallpaperforwindows.com.

wood works

You may love the look of wood on both the interior and exterior of your home, but wood that faces the elements daily can deteriorate and cause problems. Stacy Einck, brand public relations manager for Andersen Windows and Doors, recommends low-maintenance wood-clad patio doors with vinyl exteriors—they will provide you with the beauty and elegance you want while withstanding an array of weather conditions. And on the inside, you can paint or stain the wood to match your home’s design scheme.