If you are adding a patio to your home, you will want to give yourself a way to get out to your new patio. There are many different patio doors you can install; the key is to determine what type of view and access you need to your patio. 

Sliding  

One of the most classic types of patio doors is sliding doors. With a sliding door, you don't have to worry about having space to open the door inward or outward—you just need to have the wall space to install a sliding door where you don't have to move any electrical or plumbing lines.  

Sliding doors are usually about the width of two doorways, as you have a stationary pane of glass and another pane of glass that slides. You can get a custom sliding glass door if you need a larger or smaller one for your space. You can also get a dual sliding door, where you can slide both sides open, although not simultaneously.  

With a sliding glass door, you have to keep the sliding mechanism oiled and keep the base of the door clean to allow for a smooth slide. They can be a little tricky to secure and keep locked. You do get to enjoy a great view, and you can leave the door open for ventilation purposes.  

Hinged French Doors 

Another option is a hinged French door. With this style of door, you get to enjoy a great view like with the sliding configuration; however, you have great control over the security of the door, as you can use a more traditional lock to secure the door, and you can install sliding locks on the top of the door as well. 

There are lots of ways to configure a hinged French door. You can have two doors next to each other, or you can have two doors next to each other with matching windows on both sides, depending on how much space you have and how much of a view you want. 

You will have to account for space for swinging the door open and shut, so you need a little more space to work with when you choose this option.  

Bifold 

Another option is bifold doors. With these doors, they have track systems that they slide on. They also have hinges so that they fold outward partially when you operate them. They are generally made fully of glass, once again providing a great view of the outside. 

They do have many folding and moving parts and require a fair bit of maintenance to keep them operating smoothly. 

When it comes to choosing a patio door for your home, you will want to consider how you want the door to open, how you can secure it, and how much maintenance you are willing to put in. French doors are the easiest to secure and take care of, sliding glass doors don't take up that much space, and bi-fold doors require extra work but can look great in your home.