I’ve been working with doors since 2001 — and one of the most common points of confusion I hear from homeowners is this:
“Aren’t all double doors French doors?”
Not quite.
While every French door is technically a double door, not all double doors are French. It’s like calling every off-road vehicle a Land Rover — close, but not the full picture.
French doors have a distinct style, and knowing the difference can help you choose the right option for your home — not just in looks, but also in function, comfort, and cost.
Key Takeaways
- French doors are a type of double door — usually with multiple small glass panes and a traditional design.
- Not all double doors are French — many come in solid panels, large glass slabs, or modern minimalist designs.
- French doors are great for light and style, but can be less secure and more draft-prone without proper sealing.
- Standard double entry doors are often more durable, secure, and suited for insulation in tough weather.
- Think beyond looks — your lifestyle, climate, and how the doors will function day to day should drive your choice.
- Security, swing clearance, and insulation are key factors homeowners often overlook when choosing between the two..
What Are French Doors?
French doors are hinged double doors with multiple panes of glass — typically arranged in a grid pattern. They open either inward or outward and are all about light, symmetry, and a touch of classic charm.
You’ll most often see them:
- Leading to patios, decks, or gardens
- As interior double doors between living areas
- As front doors in traditional or heritage-style homes
They work beautifully when you're trying to bring the outside in, or simply want to create a sense of openness and refinement.
But there are trade-offs (which we’ll cover below).
What Are Double Doors (Non-French)?
When we say "double doors", we’re referring to any set of two doors that open from the center — not necessarily with glass, grids, or a French aesthetic.
These include:
- Solid double entry doors — strong, secure, and imposing
- Modern panelled doors — minimalist and sleek
- Double doors with single large glass inserts — for a more contemporary look
Double doors can be fibreglass, steel, timber, or even full-glass. They’re not tied to one look — they’re a format.
Think of them as a category: French is one style of double door, but others might be more practical, more secure, or more suited to modern homes.
Want to understand double doors better? Check out the what is a double door guide for a full breakdown of how they work, what styles exist, and when they make the most sense.
Double Door vs French Door: Key Differences
Here’s how French doors and other double doors compare when it comes to the things that actually matter.
|
Feature |
French Doors |
Non-French Double Doors |
|
Glass |
Multiple small panes |
Varies – often solid or large glass panels |
|
Style |
Traditional, romantic |
Broad range – from classic to modern |
|
Security |
Slightly less secure due to glass and framing |
Easier to reinforce with solid slabs |
|
Energy efficiency |
More glass = lower insulation unless upgraded |
Better potential for sealing and insulation |
|
Maintenance |
More joints, more to clean |
Simpler surfaces, less upkeep |
|
Light |
High natural light |
Depends on design — can be full privacy |
|
Cost |
Often higher due to glasswork and style |
More range in budget, especially for solid doors |
Pros & Cons: French Door vs Double Door
Here’s a quick visual overview of the upsides and downsides of each type:
|
Type |
Pros |
Cons |
|
French Doors |
Elegant, lets in natural light, connects indoors to outdoors |
Can be drafty, lower security, requires good sealing |
|
Double Entry Doors (Non-French) |
Stronger security, better insulation, wider style range |
Heavier look, may not suit heritage homes, requires swing space |
Let’s talk it through
Styles, colors, installation — I’ll help you get it right
Which One Should You Choose?
It comes down to how you live, what your home looks like, and how you want the entry to feel.
Choose French doors if:
- Your home is traditional or has a romantic style
- You want to maximize light and visual openness
- You’re creating a garden entrance or patio access
- You’re okay with upgrading seals/glass for insulation
Go with standard double doors if:
- You’re after security and weather resistance
- Your home is modern or minimal
- You want lower maintenance and simpler aesthetics
- You prefer solid doors or larger uninterrupted glass
Not sure whether to go with double or single doors instead? Compare double doors vs single doors — from space and cost to security and everyday function.
Making the Right Call: French Doors or Double Doors?
I’ve seen French doors transform dark rooms into warm, bright spaces, and I’ve seen them struggle in -20°C Canadian winters if not properly insulated.
I’ve also installed solid double doors that felt like a fortress, but overwhelmed smaller homes with their scale.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But if you want help choosing based on your actual space, I’m always happy to offer a second opinion.
