Futon Heaven

Sliding patio doors are a necessity when planning the entry from the outdoor patio or garden into the home. The are many reasons for purchasing a sliding door versus a door that swings open, one is that it does not take up as much space.

They also allow in considerably more light than traditional double hung windows and with the right dressings, can add the appearance of more room to an area in the home. Instead of leaving the windows in sliding patio doors open, leaving the room looking like a fish bowl from the outside, vertical blinds or sliding curtains are often used. Vertical blinds seem to be the most popular choice as they can be turned to be open to let in a little bit of light or opened completely for access to the doorway.

One caution when using sliding patio doors is to make sure they are secured at night and when not at home. The locking mechinism on the door should not be the only source of security. By inserting a stick, dowel or rod in the track you can hinder any outsiders from entering your home.

Choosing Door To Match The House

Most sliding patio doors come complete with the frame, but the trim can be selected to match the trim of other doors and windows in the home. The door jamb and frame can add that finishing touch to your patio doors which will make them blend seemless into your home.

The only complaint you may have about your new sliding patio doors will be keeping it free of fingerprints or pawprints. Handprints can be a constant battle but with the right glass cleaner can make them look new all the time. If the sun hits the door, every little speck of dust will show, but smears from outside dirt and inside hands can make them very unattractive. Installing patio door blinds may help this situation.

Be sure to run a vacuum cleaner hose inside the bottom track at least weekly to keep the track free of dirt and debris and the sliding patio doors sliding easily. Porper care and cleaning of the door tracks and wheels can add years to a smooth moving sliding door.