Should French doors open in or out?
It depends on space and security. Outward-opening French doors save floor space and tend to seal better against wind-driven rain, while inward-opening doors keep the hinges inside, which makes them harder to tamper with. Both can be secure with the right hardware.
What are the pros and cons of each?
| Open outwards | Open inwards | |
|---|---|---|
| Floor space | Saved inside | Needs swing room inside |
| Hinges | On the outside, need protecting | Inside, harder to reach |
| Weather | Often seals well against driven rain | Depends on gaskets and threshold |
| Outside space | Needs clear room to open | Not an issue |
How do you secure outward-opening doors?
Use security hinges with non-removable pins, hinge bolts, a multipoint lock and a PAS 24 tested set where possible. Hinge bolts on the hinge side stop the door being lifted away if the pins are exposed.
What else should I check?
Look at what is outside: a path, a neighbour’s boundary or a low wall can rule out an outward swing. Jake decides this at the survey, so ask about uPVC French doors from JMF Windows Oxford.
Thinking about a new door? Jake surveys every job himself, and our quotes are free, in writing and without obligation. We fit across Oxford, Kidlington, Bicester, Witney, Abingdon and the villages around. Call 01865 708464 or ask for a free quote.
