There is merit in replacing a sliding patio door system with a French door. Going old school is a major aesthetic upgrade, for the broad frames rarely cease to be charming. However, switching from a gliding door to a swinging one will almost always leave some part of the opening uncovered. Adding windows is a neat solution.

Since combining French doors with windows is an art, Exterior Building Solutions, the local authority on storm damage restoration and home exterior improvement, offers you some expert tips below to pull it off.

Flank the Door With Double-Hung Windows

An excellent way to help fill the wide opening a pair of French doors can’t occupy on its own is to introduce one double-hung window at each side. This configuration works wonders for a property with a patio since the sashes of operating windows will not interfere with foot traffic when open.

Building a seat next to each double-hung window makes it easier to join the conversation or simply enjoy your outdoor space without actually going outside.

Install a Sliding Window on One Side

Using one sliding window in lieu of two double-hung ones can achieve the same goal, plus it provides top-to-bottom ventilation. Experienced window and roofing companies would recommend only when there the remaining portion of the opening is wide enough to accommodate a pair of staggered operating units.

Top the Door With a Decorative Transom

If you have tall sliding doors, your French doors do not have to match their height. Rather, crown them with one fixed window. The additional glass can make up the less transparent surface of the French door.

Form a Glass Wall With a Picture Window

If you want a no-frills door-window pairing, you can’t think of a better one than a combination of French doors and picture windows. Reliable emergency roof repair and window specialists would attest that passive fixtures require much less maintenance since they have no moving parts.

Let Exterior Building Solutions help plan your patio door replacement to perfection. Call (314) 470-8783 to get your project started and receive a FREE estimate in St. Louis, MO.