Saturday, August 10, 2013

How to Evaluate Patio Doors

Patio doors add beauty and light to homes. A patio door can be an object of art in and of itself, giving your home distinctive character. Patio doors are still utilitarian, as they were long ago, but today they are significantly improved in that area as well---they've become more energy efficient, an important factor in today's home. Buying a high-quality door is not cheap, but it pays to do so. A quality patio door will add value to your home.

Instructions

    1

    Know that patio doors come as hinged or sliding. Traditionally, a hinged door has been the choice when space or furniture arrangement are not an issue; sliding patio doors have been the choice when space and furniture arrangement are an issue.

    2

    Know that an excellent patio door will give aesthetics, high performance and energy efficiency. For example, a sliding patio door, when pulled, should glide quietly over its track; a hinged and sliding patio door should have, at the very least, double-paned insulating glass. The U rating should be .30 or less; the solar heat gain coefficient should be below .30.

    3

    Know that patio doors have many options. For example, all major manufacturers offer Low E gas with or without argon in between the panes for more energy efficiency. The higher the upgrade for this option, the more expensive the cost. Manufacturers offer many other features, such as blinds or grilles between the glass panes; outside removable grilles; many aesthetic grille designs such as prairie, cottage, Victorian, trellis or checkrail. Some manufacturers have several glass options: wavy, seeded, etched, tinted, tempered, bullet resistant or obscure.

    4

    Visit stores that sell patio doors. High-quality patio doors can be found at home improvement stores and specialty door stores. However, specialty door stores will have a knowledgeable sales person who can show you a wide variety of doors and options. Home improvement stores will have a more limited stock, but high-quality doors can be purchased there.

    5

    Consider other important aspects when buying a patio door: What is the warranty and is it transferable to the new owner if you sell your home? Does the door meet the criteria for the Federal Energy Tax Credit for 2009 to 2010? What is the design of the locking system? Are the screens and hardware included in the price or are they extra? Does the manufacturer offer good customer support?

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