You typically have two door replacement options for an outside patio or pool deck, a hinged door option, or a door that slides on a track. Sliding patio doors are the best option when space is a premium, but hinged doors, also known as French doors, have a spectacular look that is hard to match.
The harsh environment and time take a toll in South Florida, making it necessary to replace your patio or sliding glass doors every 15 to 20 years. However, with proper upkeep, you can extend the life of your doors. This includes cleaning and lubricating the doors on a regular schedule.
When it comes time to replace your patio or sliding glass door, the Florida building code requires all structures’ openings to be fitted with an impact-rated product or coverings like storm shutters.
Hinged Patio Doors, also known as French Patio Doors
French doors are a classic patio door option, and here is what you should look for when selecting and installing an impact-rated French patio door.
All exterior doors must open outward and have a multi-point lock in the case of the French doors. Aside from the typical centrally located deadbolt lock, two perimeter bolts are located at the top and bottom of the door. A multi-point lock adds additional stability and security. Some multi-point locks are engaged operated by lifting the door handle and are locked in place by turning the key or interior thumb turn. For others, you manually flip a latch at the top and bottom of the door to engage the pins that lock the door.
The glass on French doors should be multi-layered, impact-rated glass. There are two panes of glass that sandwich an inner layer of polyvinyl butyral film. While the glass might shatter on impact, the interior film will keep the door from failing, preventing the outside elements from breaching the home’s interior.
As far as style is concerned, a French door with a single pane of impact glass gives the home a more modern contemporary look, but you can also choose between multiple grill patterns to match your home’s architectural style.
Sliding Glass Doors
Many homes have sliding glass doors because of ease of use and affordability. Since the door does not swing open, a sliding glass door creates more usable space. They are also great for letting in tons of natural light and providing a great view of the outside.
If you have a large deck or patio, choosing a multi-slide patio door is an option. The panels stack as you slide the door open, giving the homeowner a large open space to the outdoors.
In South Florida, you should select a sliding glass door with impact glass that has been manufactured to meet your local municipality’s building code. Broward, Miami- Dade, and the coast of Palm Beach are located in a High-Velocity Wind Zone. This means doors and windows must all be impact tested to meet Miami-Dade Building Codes, the most stringent in the nation.
Patio Door Security
Patio doors are one of the main access points for thieves to enter your home. Usually, these doors are located away from onlookers’ view, making them prime targets for thieves. Multi-point locks and impact glass make it virtually impossible for thieves to breach an impact-rated French door. Sliding glass doors with impact glass and blocking bars will also keep your home safe from intruders. Thieves will often move on to easier targets when encountering an impact-rated door.
Tinted Glass
Many people choose to have their French Door or Patio Door glass tinted. Tinting will help reduce the heat and block damaging UV rays. UV rays will, over time, fade carpet, furniture, and artwork. Manufacturers often offer various tint options to complement your home’s style and color scheme.
Do I need a permit to replace an exterior door?
And the answer is Yes, to the question, “Do I need a permit to replace an exterior patio or sliding glass door?” The inspector will verify the door is properly rated and is appropriately installed following the manufacturer’s specifications.
Replacing your doors and windows will give your home a tremendous facelift. Count on the experts of GM – Door, Window & Screen to do the job right. We are family-owned and operated, and the company has been in business since 1968. We have our own in-house installation teams. Call us for a free estimate at (954) 797-0797.