The Window
& Door Store

PVC patio door with gold handle.

PVC, Aluminum, or Hybrid: Choosing the Right Patio Door

Choosing the right patio door can significantly enhance your home’s aesthetics and functionality. With many options available, how do you decide which material is best for you? Let’s explore the three main types of patio doors: PVC, aluminum, and hybrid. Each has its own set of advantages, so let’s break them down to see which one suits your needs best.

PVC Patio Doors

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a type of plastic and a popular choice for patio doors, and for good reasons. It’s cost-effective and offers excellent benefits that make it particularly suitable for regions with harsh and long winters. PVC patio doors are known for:

  • Energy Efficiency: PVC doors offer excellent insulation. They help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, which can lead to lower energy bills. This is particularly beneficial in regions where winters are harsh and long.
  • Low Maintenance: One of the best things about PVC is that it’s virtually maintenance-free. A quick wipe with soap and water is usually enough to keep it looking new.
  • Durability: PVC is resistant to rot, rust, and corrosion. This makes it a durable option that can withstand various weather conditions.
  • Cost-Effective: PVC doors are usually the most affordable option, making them a great choice for homeowners on a budget.
Large PVC sliding patio door leading to a nice backyard.
PVC, while cost-effective, is still highly durable and energy efficient.

Aluminum Patio Doors

Aluminum patio doors are celebrated for their strength and modern look. Aluminum patio doors have the following benefits:

  • Strength and Durability: Aluminum doors are incredibly strong and can withstand harsh weather.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: These doors offer a modern, sleek look that can enhance the overall design of your home.
  • Low Maintenance: Aluminum doors don’t rust or rot either, therefore, don’t require frequent painting or sealing, and cleaning them is easy.
Large black aluminum patio door.
Aluminum is also an excellent material for patio doors, but does generally cost more.

Hybrid Patio Doors

Hybrid patio doors combine the best features of PVC and aluminum. They typically have a PVC core for insulation and an aluminum exterior for added strength and aesthetic appeal. Hybrid doors are know for the following characteristics:

  • Energy Efficiency: The PVC core provides excellent insulation.
  • Durability: The aluminum exterior offers additional strength and resistance to harsh weather conditions.

Why We Recommend PVC Patio Doors

PVC patio doors emerge as an optimal choice for the following reasons:

  • Superior Insulation: The excellent thermal performance of PVC doors is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment during Regina’s long, cold winters. PVC is better at insulation as aluminum is more prone to heat transfer, helping to keep your home energy-efficient.
  • Low Maintenance and Durability: The ease of upkeep and resistance to harsh weather conditions make PVC doors a practical and long-lasting solution. Unlike aluminum, PVC does not dent easily, ensuring that your patio doors maintain their appearance and functionality over time.
  • Budget-Friendly: PVC doors are usually the most affordable option, making them accessible without compromising quality.

Conclusion

Choosing the right patio door for your home is a significant decision that can impact your home’s appearance and comfort. By considering your budget, aesthetic preferences, and the demands of your local climate, you can select the patio door that best enhances your home’s overall appeal and functionality. For our local customers in Regina, we do recommend PVC as it offers the best value and can withstand our harsh, long winters.