Patio DoorFor years, it squeaked and squealed and stuck. Finally, after updating the landscaping and creating a beautiful new outdoor living space, the Adairs had had enough. They switched out their old original sliding patio door with a show-stopping new folding door system.

"It literally changed our view of the space and how it works with the rest of the house, providing much greater access and openness," says homeowner Brent Adair. "Frankly, we enjoyed our outdoor area all that much more because of it. And it was absolutely a key feature that attracted a buyer when we put our home up for sale."

While outdoor living has become a major focus for homeowners, the opportunity is still knocking to create a truly inspired outdoor space by simply selecting the right patio door.

"Patio door options are as personalized and varied as the number of outdoor spaces themselves," says Brian Hedlund, JELD-WEN Windows & Doors. "It pays to be choosy because the right door will help highlight and enhance outdoor living spaces, making them more usable and comfortable."

What makes for a good patio door is a combination of personal taste as well as practical considerations, says Hedlund. Homeowners need to factor in traffic flow and access, how best to play up natural elements such as light and fresh air, and take into account the desire for privacy and potential space restrictions. With this in mind, here are five key considerations for how to choose the perfect patio door:

1) Get into the swing of it.

Sliding and gliding doors work well for places where space is tight. Inswinging, outswinging and French doors need additional space to operate, but they can help maximize indoor-outdoor access. Consider factors such as furniture and wall placement before determining which system is right for the space. Other options include a stationary panel with one operating inswinging or outswinging door.

2) Explore the great wide open.

Wider doorways provide greater access and stronger connections to the outdoors. They can also become beautiful focal points. Particularly popular are folding door systems that can literally open up an entire wall and operate accordion style. Some companies even offer a 90-degree option, where two doors meet in the corner, with no post required.

3) Take a fresh approach.

Controlling ventilation and being able to bring in fresh air is also a benefit of indoor-outdoor living. Options include not only screens, but different entry door styles not typically thought of as a "standard" patio door, such as a Dutch door. These doors are literally cut in half, allowing the top to operate independently from the bottom. Advantages include the ability to open up the top portion to allow for fresh air and a greater connection to the outdoors, while keeping the bottom half closed to help corral children and pets.

4) Take panes to enhance privacy and protection.

Glass is the main focal point for patio doors, and selecting the right type offers a number of benefits. Low-E glass helps lower energy bills all year and protects against UV fading. Decorative tempered glass can offer privacy, yet still allow for natural light.

5) Be materialistic.

Different materials can offer certain style, performance and price advantages. Large glass lites in wood, fiberglass, steel and aluminum are options to consider. Wood, fiberglass, vinyl and aluminum patio doors can help achieve different goals when it comes to coordinating with various architectural styles.

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