French Doors- Function & Beauty Swinging French Doors

French Doors- Function & Beauty Swinging French Doors

Posted by Amanda

On 7th Mar 2023

Last date modified Nov. 2025

French Doors- Adding Function and Beauty Perfectly Sized Swinging French Doors

French doors are a classic and elegant addition to any home, providing both aesthetic appeal and functionality. They are a popular choice among homeowners looking to create a sense of openness and flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces. French doors are characterized by their glass panels and intricate frames, which can be made from a variety of materials such as wood, vinyl, or fiberglass.

Key Takeaways:

  • French doors boost light and flow; choose swinging or double-action for your traffic needs.
  • Custom-sized doors fit existing or non-standard openings and simplify install vs. stock big-box units.
  • Plan for swing direction, material, and quality hardware—pro installation helps ensure security and smooth operation.

Swinging French Doors 

Swinging French doors are the most common type of French door. They are hinged on one side and swing inward or outward, depending on the configuration of the room. Swinging French doors are ideal for larger openings and provide easy access to the outdoors. They are also a popular choice for interior doors, particularly between living spaces, as they provide an open flow between rooms.

Another type of French door is the double action French door. This type of door swings in both directions and is often used in commercial settings such as restaurants or retail stores. Double action French doors are ideal for high traffic areas as they provide easy access and do not require a lot of clearance space.

Purchasing French Doors

One of the benefits of purchasing French doors is the large selection of styles and designs. They are offered in both swinging and double action French doors in various materials such as wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. Lowes also offers customizable options such as glass type, hardware, and finish, allowing homeowners to create a custom look that fits their style and preferences.

When purchasing stock French Doors from Lowes or a big box store, there will be no customization of sizing. The French doors will need to be  installed in a rough opening, making a larger construction project. Custom sized French doors will allow you to install into a traditional or non-traditional opening. The custom size will cost more to purchase but will be an easy installation process, less construction, and less clean up necessary. 

Installation of French Doors

Modern French Doors | Double Swinging Doors

Installing French doors can be a great way to improve the look and feel of your home, as well as add value to your property. There are several factors to consider when installing French doors, such as the size of the opening, the type of material, and the type of operation. One of the most important factors to consider when installing French doors is the type of swing. Installing French doors can be a complex and time-consuming process, and it's important to have the installation done correctly to ensure proper operation and security. 

In conclusion, French doors are a timeless and elegant addition to any home. When installing French doors, it's important to consider the type of swing and material, as well as to purchase from a reputable retailer such as Lowes. With their wide selection and professional installation services, Lowes is a great choice for homeowners looking to add French doors to their home. 

Whether you're looking to create an open flow between indoor and outdoor spaces or simply add a touch of elegance to your home, French doors are a great choice that will provide years of beauty and functionality.