Question 1

What's the widest patio door I can get without custom ordering?

Accepted Answer

Standard patio doors are typically available up to 12 feet wide (144 inches) without requiring custom manufacturing. Most manufacturers stock sliding patio doors in widths from 5 feet to 12 feet, with 8-foot and 10-foot being the most common sizes.

For sliding patio doors, you'll find readily available stock sizes including 60", 72", 96", 120", and 144" wide units. The 12-foot wide doors usually feature three panels - two stationary and one sliding panel. Beyond 12 feet, you're typically lookin

Question 2

Do sliding patio doors leak more air than hinged ones?

Accepted Answer

Sliding patio doors typically have higher air leakage than hinged French doors due to their design and sealing mechanisms. The sliding track system creates more potential air infiltration points compared to the compression seals used in hinged doors.

Why sliding doors leak more air: Sliding doors rely on brush seals, weatherstripping, and the track system to prevent air infiltration. These seals must allow the door to slide smoothly while still blocking air, which is an inherent compromise. The

Question 3

How do I keep my patio door track from freezing shut?

Accepted Answer

Frozen patio door tracks are a common Ottawa winter problem that can usually be prevented with proper maintenance and a few strategic upgrades.

The main culprit is moisture that gets into the track system and freezes when temperatures drop. This happens when snow and ice accumulate in the track, or when condensation from indoor humidity freezes in the door mechanism. Proper drainage and moisture control are your best defenses against this frustrating issue.

Start with regular track maintenance

Question 4

Can I add a screen to my new French patio doors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can definitely add screens to French patio doors. Most French patio door installations include screen options, and there are several effective screening solutions designed specifically for this door style.

Retractable screens are the most popular choice for French patio doors because they provide unobstructed views when not in use. These screens roll up into a housing mounted above or to the side of the door opening, and you simply pull them down or across when needed. They're particul

Question 5

Are multi-panel sliding doors practical for Ottawa winters?

Accepted Answer

Multi-panel sliding doors can be practical for Ottawa winters, but they require careful selection and proper installation to handle our harsh climate conditions. The key is choosing quality systems designed for Canadian winters and ensuring professional installation with proper weatherproofing.

Performance in Ottawa's Climate
Ottawa's extreme temperature swings (from -30°C to +35°C) put significant stress on multi-panel sliding systems. Quality units with thermally broken frames, triple-pane gl

Question 6

What is the difference between a garden door and a French door?

Accepted Answer

Garden doors and French doors are both hinged patio door styles, but they differ primarily in their opening configuration and aesthetic design.

A garden door typically refers to a single hinged door that opens outward from your home, often featuring a full glass panel or multiple glass panels within the door frame. Garden doors are designed to provide easy access to outdoor spaces like patios, decks, or gardens while maximizing natural light. They usually swing out to avoid taking up interior f

Patio Doors