Choosing Between PVC Patio Doors and PVC French Doors: A Homeowner’s Guide
Tuesday, 06 January 2026
When you’re planning to upgrade the rear of your home — whether it’s opening up to the garden, bringing in more light, or improving thermal efficiency — the choice between PVC patio doors and PVC French doors is a big one. Both options have their strengths, and making the right decision depends on how you want your space to look, feel, and function. In this guide, we’ll break down what each type offers so you can choose with confidence.

🏡 What Are PVC Patio Doors?
PVC patio doors — like the MASTERslide system from Selecta Systems — are horizontal sliding doors. They glide smoothly on tracks and are designed to give you a wide, unobstructed view of the outdoors.
✨ Why homeowners love them:
- Large, uninterrupted glass panels maximise natural light.
- Slim sightlines create a modern look and bring your garden into focus.
- They’re available in 2, 3, or 4 pane layouts — ideal for wider openings.
- Smooth sliding action makes them easy to operate even with children or heavy loads.
- A low threshold version can make transitioning outside easier and more accessible.
- Multiple configurations and colour options (including modern and traditional shades and wood-effect foils) let you compliment your home.
👷♂️ Performance highlights:
- Excellent thermal performance keeps heat in and cold out — especially with double or triple glazing.
- Enhanced security options meet rigorous PAS 24 and Secured by Design standards.
📊 Best for: Modern homes, wide openings, and anyone who loves a panoramic view and light-filled rooms.

🚪 What Are PVC French Doors?
French doors are a pair of hinged doors that meet in the middle and open outwards or inwards. The ADVANCE 70 French doors from Selecta marry classical style with modern performance.
🌿 Why they’re a favourite:
- Their timeless design suits both traditional and contemporary homes.
- They create a graceful transition between your living space and garden.
- You can open one or both doors, improving ventilation on warm days.
- Lots of style and finish options (including coloured or wood-effect foils) let you match your home’s personality.
🛡 Performance highlights:
- French doors from Selecta are multi-chambered for thermal efficiency, helping keep energy bills down.
- PAS 24 & Secured by Design options give peace of mind on security.
- Choose from double or triple glazing to suit your energy and acoustic performance goals.
📊 Best for: Homeowners who want classic elegance, flexibility in use, and a door that feels like an architectural feature.
⚖️ Patio vs French: How to Choose
Here’s how to think about the two in everyday terms:
📍 Space and Layout

- Patio doors slide, so you don’t need extra clearance — perfect if you’re tight on outdoor space.
- French doors swing open, which can feel more dramatic but may require more room.
🌞 Light and Views
- Patio doors usually provide larger uninterrupted glass areas, maximising light and views.
- French doors still let in lots of light — and because both doors can open, you get a more open feel.
🎨 Style and Aesthetics
- Choose patio doors for a sleek, modern look.
- Go for French doors if you love a classic, elegant entrance that enhances outdoor living.
🔐 Security and Performance
Both options from Selecta Systems can be manufactured with high-security locks, multi-chambered frames for thermal efficiency, and excellent weather performance. Whichever you pick, you won’t have to compromise on comfort or safety.
🧠 Final Thoughts
There’s no universal “best” — just what’s best for your home and lifestyle.
- If your priority is light, view, and modern simplicity, PVC patio doors could be the right fit.
- If you value traditional charm and flexible ventilation, PVC French doors might win your heart.
Whichever you choose, high-quality PVC options like those from Selecta Systems deliver on security, thermal performance, and aesthetics — all key for a comfortable, enjoyable home.
- Published in BLOG
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