When renovating a kitchen or living area, installing French doors is a traditional choice, but do they add the most value? Learn more about installing French doors vs sliding doors, how much they cost and what value they can add when selling.
Do French doors add value to your house?
In short, French doors can add value to a property. How much value they add depends on where they’re installed, the improvements they add and what style you choose. French doors installed in a dining room, kitchen, living room, or open-plan space overlooking the garden add the most value. It’s also important to choose a style that matches the rest of the property’s aesthetic to maximise value.
French doors add value for several reasons. Firstly, they’re long-lasting. When well cared for, they shouldn’t need replacing for at least 30 years. Secondly, they offer maximum home security, meeting all PAS024 testing regulations. Finally, French doors are aesthetically pleasing. They flood a room with natural light (which also adds value), offer a modern look and integrate the garden with the home.
What is the average cost of a French door?
On average, you can expect to pay between £1,700 to £3,125 to install French doors in your home. How much it costs depends on whether you’re replacing an existing door, replacing a window with French doors, or creating a new opening.
According to Checkatrade, you can expect to pay:
| Type of Installation |
Cost of Labour and Materials |
| Changing a window to French doors |
£1,700 |
| Making a new opening to install French doors |
£3,125 |
| Extending an existing window or door opening to install French doors |
£3,125 |
What is more modern, sliding or French doors?
French doors and sliding doors are both considered modern and value-adding. However, which offers the most benefit depends on the style and size of your home. Bi-folding doors have a modern look, yet they take up vital space inside the home. Therefore, they’re best for larger rooms with an overall modern aesthetic.
Sliding doors are also a modern solution, but they don’t allow as much fresh air into the home compared to French doors. They also limit access from the home to the garden, as you can only open one side of the door.
French doors offer the most universal solution. In their standard style, they cater to any interior or exterior aesthetic. They flood a house with natural light and fresh air without taking up space inside the home. Both these factors can make them more desirable to potential buyers in the future.
Where should I install French doors?
You can install French doors in any ground-floor room. To get the most value, you’re best installing them in value-adding rooms with a good view of the garden, like:
- Kitchens
- Dining rooms
- Living rooms
- Open-plan kitchen, living and dining areas
Conclusion
Upgrading areas of your home and increasing the natural light can add value to a property. Yet not all home improvements are worth it if you want to maximise resale value, especially if you’re planning on selling in the near future.
Get an instant online valuation on your property today or book a valuation with one of our local experts to see what it’s worth as it is.