Impact French Doors for Lanai and Pool Access
Impact French doors are hinged, glass-paneled doors built and tested to resist hurricane debris and wind pressure. Storm Pro Window and Door installs impact French doors in in-swing and out-swing configurations for lanai, patio and pool access, with grid, glass and finish options, using in-house installers and no subcontractors.
Why choose impact French doors?
French doors open wide to connect your living room to the lanai, pool deck or garden. With both panels open you get a broad walkway for carrying food out or moving furniture. The large glass panels bring in daylight and views. When they are impact-rated, those openings no longer need shutters before a storm.
- Opens wide to the lanai, pool deck or garden
- Broad walkway with both panels open
- Large glass panels bring in daylight
- No shutters needed before a storm
Planning Your French Doors
Which way the doors should swing, and what to plan for at a lanai or pool.
In-swing or out-swing: which is better?
The right choice depends on your space and the approved rating of the product.
Out-swing doors open toward the outside. They are common here because wind pushes the door harder against its frame and weatherstripping, and they save interior floor space. You need clear room outside for the swing, and hinges sit on the exterior.
In-swing doors open into the room. They keep clear of patio furniture and screens and give a traditional look. Sill and weatherstripping design matter more, since wind and water push in the direction the door opens.
Ratings are specific to each product and size, so we compare the approved design pressure and water ratings for your opening instead of assuming one swing always wins.
What should I plan for at a lanai or pool?
If swing space is tight, impact sliding glass doors may fit better.
Traffic
Heavy daily use calls for durable hinges and hardware in finishes suited to humid, salty air.
Pool safety rules
Doors that open straight to a pool area may need alarms or self-closing features. The permit reviewer confirms what applies.
Swing path
Measure so doors clear furniture, ceiling fans and screen frames.
French Door Options
Grids, energy efficiency and finishes for impact French doors.
Can I add grids to impact French doors?
Yes. Grids give French doors their classic divided-lite look. Options include classic applied grids, grids between the glass and double applied grids on both sides. Grids between the glass are easiest to clean, while applied grids look more dimensional. Match the grid style to nearby impact windows for a consistent exterior.
What finishes are available?
Finish choices depend on the door line and may include painted colors, wood-look stains and coordinating hardware. Browse door colors and finishes or compare manufacturers on our impact window and door brands page.
Energy
How energy efficient are they?
Laminated impact glass with low-E coatings can cut solar heat gain and fading on furniture and floors, and tight weatherstripping limits air leaks. Compare labeled performance numbers using the NFRC rating guide. Actual savings depend on the home, the direction the doors face and the product chosen.
- Low-E laminated glass cuts solar heat gain
- Less fading on furniture and floors
- Tight weatherstripping limits air leaks
- Savings depend on the home and the direction the doors face
Shawn responded quickly, assisted us in purchasing the best windows for our needs and was there to oversee the install.
Steve G.
How are they installed?
Most French door installations take one day. Storm Pro handles the permit, protects your floors, removes the old door, installs with our in-house crew and cleans up. We never install into rotted or structurally unsound framing. See the impact door installation process or return to all impact doors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are impact French doors as strong as sliding glass doors?
When both are impact-rated and correctly installed, each is tested to its approved design pressure and impact standards. Strength depends on the specific product, size and rating, not the style. We match the rating to what your opening requires.
Why are out-swing doors common in Florida?
Out-swing doors press against their frame when wind pushes from outside, which helps with sealing and water resistance, and they save interior space. Ratings still vary by product, so we review the approved data for your specific door.
Can I replace a sliding glass door with French doors?
Often, yes, if the opening size and swing space work. The frame may need modification, which affects permitting and timing. We assess the opening and explain what is involved during your consultation.
Can French doors have blinds or privacy glass?
Options vary by product. Some lines offer blinds between the glass or privacy glass, and grids between the glass are also available. Ask us to show you samples.