You are here probably because you want to know which type of door will give your home the most value. Entry doors or patio doors?
Well, you’re not alone. Both types of doors are famous among homeowners for several different purposes and their unique benefits.
Why do we need an entry door?
They are all about security, first impressions, and energy efficiency. They need to be sturdy and welcoming too.
On The other hand, patio doors are for creating connection between your living space and the outdoors. They bring natural light, make accessibility with outdoor areas and make your home feel airy and open.
In this article, we’ll break down how well these door types stack up against each other.
What Are Entry Doors and Patio Doors?
Entry doors and patio doors are both important features of any home. But they serve very different purposes.
Entry Doors
An entry door is the first thing people see when they come to your home. It’s not something just about aesthetics, it’s about security, durability, and style.
They come in different materials: wood, steel, or fiberglass. Any of them add strength to your home’s exterior.
They are built to withstand the elements and provide a welcoming feel.
They usually come in a variety of designs from simple, modern looks to more traditional styles.
Patio Doors
Patio doors are different. They are the bridge between your indoor living space and the outdoor world.
Often made of glass, these doors allow natural light to flood into your home while offering easy access to your backyard, patio, or garden.
Patio doors come in different types: sliding, French, or bifold.
How Entry Doors Add Value
Security and First Impressions
When someone walks up to your house, the entry door is often the first thing they see. A solid, well-made door instantly tells them that your home is secure and welcoming.
Good entry doors can make a home feel more inviting, and they offer much-needed protection.
Variety of Materials and Designs
Entry doors come in many materials. Whether it’s the traditional look of wood or the durability of steel, there’s an option for every home style.
Customization is also key—add decorative glass or choose from a wide array of colors to match your home’s aesthetic.
Energy Efficiency
Entry doors, particularly those made from materials like fiberglass or steel, are great at keeping your home insulated. This helps regulate temperature and reduce energy costs, which is always a plus when it comes to adding value.
How Patio Doors Add Value
Connecting Indoor and Outdoor Spaces
Patio doors are fantastic for opening up your home to the outdoors. Whether you’re letting in fresh air or allowing natural light to flood your living room, patio doors create a seamless connection between your indoor and outdoor spaces. This is especially important for homes with beautiful outdoor areas.
Natural Light and Ventilation
Thanks to large glass panels, patio doors let in a lot of natural light. This brightens up your space, making it feel airy and spacious. Plus, the fresh air that flows through when you open the door adds to the overall appeal.
Style and Aesthetic Appeal
Patio doors are sleek, modern, and can make your home look more open and spacious. Depending on the style, whether sliding, French, or bifold, patio doors give a sense of flow between your interior and exterior, and can make your living space feel larger.
Which One Provides Better Security?
Entry Doors
Typically, entry doors are the more secure option. They’re made from solid materials, and many have advanced locking systems like deadbolts or multi-point locks. This makes it much harder for intruders to break in.
Patio Doors
While patio doors are generally secure, they’re made of glass, which can sometimes be a vulnerability.
However, modern patio doors come with multi-point locks and impact-resistant glass, making them much safer than older models.
Which One Keeps Your Home Comfortable?
Entry Doors
Entry doors are the better choice when it comes to insulation. They’re solid and designed to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer, helping to reduce your energy bills. This makes them more energy-efficient than patio doors.
Patio Doors
Although patio doors have large glass panels, they can still be energy-efficient. Many modern sliding patio doors come with double or triple-glazed glass that helps with insulation.
However, they can’t quite match the insulating ability of solid entry doors.
If insulation and energy savings are your main concern, entry doors win out. But, if you go for a high-performance patio door, you’ll still get decent energy efficiency, especially with features like Low-E glass.
Cost
The initial cost of an entry door can be higher, especially for premium materials like steel or fiberglass.
But, these doors offer excellent ROI. Patio doors, particularly sliding models, tend to be more affordable than entry doors. They’re quicker to install and generally cost less.
| Door Type | Average Cost (CAD) | Material Options | Typical Features |
| Entry Doors | $1,000 – $5,500+ | Steel, Fiberglass, Wood, Glass | Enhanced security, insulation, aesthetic appeal, customizable designs |
| Patio Doors | $700 – $6,200 | PVC, Aluminum, Wood, Hybrid | Easy access, natural light, energy efficiency, sliding or hinged options |
Additional Costs to Consider
- Installation Fees: Labor costs in Toronto range from $100 to $300 per door, depending on complexity.
- Customization: Features like glass panels, decorative hardware, and smart locks can add $50 to $500 or more to the total cost.
- Disposal Fees: Removing and disposing of old doors typically adds $50 to $150.
- Permits: May be required for structural changes, costing between $50 and $200.
Maintenance: Which Door Lasts Longer?
Entry Doors
Entry doors, especially those made from materials like steel or fiberglass, are very durable and require little maintenance. They can last for years with just basic care, making them a low-maintenance option.
Patio Doors
Patio doors, due to their glass panels and sliding tracks, require more maintenance. You’ll need to clean the tracks regularly and check the seals to make sure everything is functioning properly.
However, modern patio doors are built to last, though they may need more upkeep than entry doors.
Entry doors win in terms of low maintenance. Patio doors need more attention to keep everything running smoothly, especially when it comes to cleaning and maintaining the tracks.
Aesthetic Appeal: Which Door Looks Better?
Entry Doors
Your entry door is the focal point of your home’s exterior. It sets the tone and can be customized to match your style. Whether you go for a sleek modern look or something more traditional, an entry door makes a bold statement.
Patio Doors
Patio doors are ideal for creating an open, airy feel. They connect the indoors to the outdoors, and the large glass panels can make your home feel more spacious. Depending on the style, they can enhance the visual appeal of your home.
Both entry doors and patio doors add value, but in different ways. Entry doors create a striking first impression, while patio doors open up your space and enhance your outdoor connection.
