French Doors
French doors are a pair of hinged glass doors that open from the center. They give you a wide, elegant entrance to the patio or between rooms, and lots of light even when they're closed.
What are French doors?
French doors are two doors hung in one frame that meet in the middle. Both can open, or one can stay fixed while the other works like a normal door. Opening both creates a wide entrance that's great for moving furniture or opening a room up to the yard.
They're defined by their glass, traditionally divided into smaller panes by grilles. That classic look suits colonials, Tudors and traditional interiors, while doors with full glass and slim frames work in modern homes.
French doors can swing in or out. In-swing doors are more common and keep hinges protected inside; out-swing doors save interior floor space and press against the frame when closed for a tight seal.
Why homeowners choose French doors.
Wide opening
Open both doors for an entrance twice as wide.
Light-filled
Large glass panels brighten the room year-round.
Classic style
Divided glass adds traditional character.
Secure hardware
Multi-point locks secure both doors at several points.
Is a French door right for your home?
A great fit for
Patios and decks
A wide, inviting way out to the yard.
Between rooms
Separate a den or office while keeping light flowing.
Traditional homes
Divided lites suit colonials, Tudors and Georgians.
Entertaining
Open both doors to connect inside and out.
Good to know
Swing space
Doors need clearance to open, unlike a slider.
In-swing vs out-swing
Choose based on floor space, weather exposure and hardware.
More glass to clean
Divided lites look great but take longer to wash.
French Doors: common questions
Something we didn’t cover? Call (630) 901-6361 and ask Anna directly.
Are French doors good for exterior use in Chicago?
Yes, when they're built as exterior doors with insulated glass, good weatherstripping and a proper sill, and installed carefully. Interior French doors are not made for outside openings.
Should French doors open in or out?
In-swing is most common and keeps hinges inside. Out-swing saves floor space and seals tightly in wind. We'll recommend based on your room, deck or patio and exposure.
Can I replace a sliding door with French doors?
Often, yes. They usually fit a similar opening, though you'll need room for the doors to swing. We check the opening and floor space during the estimate.
Can you add screens to French doors?
Yes. Retractable screens tuck away when you don't need them, so they don't block the view or the doorway.
Other doors we install.
Get a free estimate on French doors.
We’ll measure, walk you through options and send a written quote, usually within 48 hours. No pressure, no obligation.