Are French doors really French?
We call them "French doors" – but how French are they, exactly? Find out the answer to this burning question – and more – in our 5-minute guide.
Don't be fooled by things that are named after countries. Half the time, these locational labels are as fake as imitation leatherette.
English muffins? Actually American. Scotch eggs? English (sorry, Scots). French toast? English too. We could go on…
And wait until you hear about French doors.
Yeah, they're from Siber… Oh. Wait. They're actually French.
It turns out French doors were invented in France at some point between the 16th and 17th centuries. (And everyone has thanked their inventors ever since – especially us!)
As they're such a popular home improvement here in the UK, we've decided to look at French doors in a little more detail. Here are all the FAQs you need to know about France's most famous export. (In the world of fenestration, at least.)
Where are French doors used?
French doors are used to separate spaces and capture as much natural light as possible. They serve to illuminate a room and provide a quick route to the great outdoors.
Up and down the UK, French doors are commonly used as openings into gardens and patios. They can also be used in summer houses, outdoor offices and workshops.
Bi-folds, those concertina-like cousins of French doors, are now standard in many new-build homes.
Do French doors open all the way?
Most French doors are hinged so they open all the way (or at least until they hit a solid object).
They're often referred to as two-hinged doors as they meet in the middle and open outwards – usually into an outside space.
This is one reason why they're so desirable – other than the fact they flood your living space with natural light.
The beauty of the French door is that you can choose to have just one door open or click a few buttons on the centre frame and create a double-door exit.
Bi-folds vs French doors
Bi-folding doors and French doors look similar at first glance. However, there are a few differences you should be aware of.
While they're both amazing at letting light into your home and come in a variety of materials and colours, this is pretty much where their similarities end.
French doors are two separate doors that meet in the middle and can be opened individually or together. Bi-folds work on a track mechanism and are made up of multiple doors that 'stack' horizontally – a little like a concertina.
Bi-fold fans love this feature because it saves space and helps to create a sense of continuity between indoors and out. With a wide set of bi-folds, you'll feel like your garden is only ever a step away.
However, French doors can be the better option for small spaces that aren't large enough for bi-folds. Because they open outwards, they don't demand any clearance indoors.
It's another win for French doors when we talk about price, as their simplicity also means they're more cost-effective.
Don't get us wrong – bi-fold doors are hardly the preserve of lottery winners. However, French doors reward you with lots of light and a classic look for a very reasonable upfront investment.
Can French doors have screens?
The simple answer to this is, yes!
Allow us to elaborate.
The most common option for French doors is retractable screens. These help maintain a level of privacy but can be rolled back to let in lots of glorious sunshine.
The screens fully cover each window panel and meet in the middle, with the option to keep one side retracted while the other covers half the window.
An alternative to screens is blinds, whether that be a roller blind or a manual fold-up blind. All can help to keep your home feeling bright and airy while keeping you safe from prying eyes.
How safe are they?
Last but not least, how safe and secure are French doors?
French doors are just as secure as any other door – especially if you buy from Calder. All our doors and windows are supplied with high-quality locking mechanisms for total peace of mind.
Besides, the greatest risk with these types of doors is when they're not installed properly. Settle for a bodge job, and you run the risk of various issues – from the doors not working correctly to reduced security.
With that being said, if you're on the lookout for some French doors to brighten up your living space and add an extra sprinkle of style and elegance, look no further than Calder Windows.
Not only have we got the goods but our installers have a fantastic reputation with decades in the trade.
And once your new doors are fitted you will get a 10-year warranty and aftercare when it's needed. Nice!
Calder Windows is a trusted door and window supplier. For more than 30 years, we've supplied and fitted high-quality
replacement French doors in West Yorkshire. Don't hesitate to
contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.
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