Get matched with top door pros in Alpha, IL

Generally, hinged French patio doors are considered more secure than sliding glass doors. French doors typically feature a more robust, solid frame that can support multi-point locking systems and deadbolts, securing the door at several points and making them harder to break into. In contrast, sliding doors often rely on a single lock and operate on tracks, which can be a security vulnerability. While you can add security bars and other features to enhance a sliding door's security, a well-made French door is often more secure on its own. Ultimately, the overall security of any patio door depends on the quality of its materials, the locking hardware, and proper installation.

While not strictly required, it is highly recommended to shim both sides of a door. Shimming both sides allows you to make minor adjustments for wall framing that isn't perfectly plumb, ensuring the door is level and hangs evenly. This practice helps the door swing open and close smoothly, reduces the chances of the frame warping, and can be used to center the door within the wall opening. If you are working alone, you may find it easier to remove the door slab to lighten the weight while supporting the frame and inserting the shims. With two people, the process is generally faster and easier, whether the slab is left in place or not.

Most modern door knobs will all fit in standard, modern doors, so if you know your door was made in the last 50 years or so, you should be fine buying a standard replacement door knob. The only exception would be a thumb latch handleset for an exterior door, as this type of door knob may not fit your door without drilling a mounting hole for the bottom of the handle. Antique or custom doors might also have different sizes and knob mounting holes, so call in a professional if you don’t believe your door is a standard one.

The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.

There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.