Bring your vision to life and create beautiful entrances to your home with new construction doors from MILGARD.
New construction doors are specifically designed and built for new homes or buildings. Unlike replacement doors, which are made to fit into pre-existing frames and openings, new construction doors are installed as part of the initial building process. Installing doors for new construction happens when the walls are still open, so that the door frame and any necessary structural support can be integrated directly into the home’s framework. At MILGARD, we focus on new construction patio doors that transform your indoor-outdoor space into an oasis.
Patio doors can really make or break your home’s look and feel. By going with high-quality new construction doors, you can ensure your patio not only fits your vision but is also energy efficient and adds value to your home.
New construction doors are part of the original building process, so there's more opportunity for customization. Homeowners and builders can specify dimensions, materials, styles, and finishes that perfectly match the architectural style and functional needs of their home. For example, they can choose frosted glass for privacy or low-emissivity (low-E) glass for improved energy efficiency. The ability to tailor every aspect ensures that the door not only fits the exact opening but also complements the home's design.
New construction doors are designed to be highly energy efficient. They typically come with better sealing technology, insulated frames, and advanced glass options, like double or triple glazing, that minimize heat transfer. These modern weatherproofing features enhance sealing and insulation, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills.
The materials available for new construction doors have also improved over the years. They’re built with robust materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions, preventing common issues like warping, shrinking, or rotting over time. They also have advanced locking mechanisms and reinforced frames that enhance security. With professional installation, they provide a stronger, more secure fit than older doors.
Both new construction windows and doors must be planned out during the building process so they can be installed as the home is built. Here’s what you’ll need to consider as you plan.
Generally, patio doors are available in in-swing, out-swing, or sliding operation. Consider the size of your space, both indoors and outdoors, and the layout of your home. Swing doors are ideal for spacious areas while sliding or pocket doors can maximize limited space. Bifold, pocket, and stacking doors are also popular options for areas where you entertain because they have a large opening that allows for a flow of people.
It’s important to consider how light enters your home. If your doors get a lot of light during the hottest parts of the day, consider tinted glass, Low-E coatings, or obscure glass to filter the UV rays. If you want to boost the sunlight, opt for a wide opening and clear glass. No matter what you choose, always go with new construction doors with proper seals and energy-rated glass to keep your home comfortable while using less energy.
Both doors and windows in building construction can be seamlessly integrated with your home’s design. Traditional homes benefit from vinyl doors in classic colors, while modern styles might be minimalist, with clean lines and sleek materials. Consider the visual impact of your doors and how they'll tie into both the exterior and interior of your home.
Whether you're looking for sliding patio doors, traditional-style French swinging doors, or luxurious moving glass walls, MILGARD has you covered. Explore available operating styles below.
New construction sliding doors are a staple for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Ideal for tight spaces, these doors offer a sleek, space-saving design without sacrificing the view or natural light. Opt for energy-efficient glass and durable frames to enhance both the comfort and the value of your property.
Swinging doors, or hinged patio doors, add a classic touch to any new construction. They swing inward or outward, providing a grand entrance to your garden or patio. With options like double doors or French styles, they're versatile enough to match any architectural design.
Moving glass walls are a growing trend for homeowners who want modern luxury. With a floor-to-ceiling glass opening that invites sweeping views of the outdoors, moving glass walls make a room feel larger and are a great option for smaller, contemporary-style homes.
Stacking doors for new construction are designed to maximize your space while offering a broad, unobstructed view of the outdoors. Similar to sliding doors, stacking doors have multiple panels that glide on a track and neatly stack behind one another when opened, a design that’s perfect for larger openings.
New construction bifold doors, also known as folding doors, fold in on themselves and stack against the wall, completely opening up an area. Bifold doors are excellent for entertaining spaces, offering a dramatic transition between living areas and the outdoors.
Need to go beyond standard exterior doors for 2x6 construction? Custom doors offer the ultimate flexibility in patio door design for new construction. Tailored to fit any opening and meet specific aesthetic and functional requirements, they allow homeowners and builders to truly realize their vision.
The right material for your new construction doors depends on your climate, budget, and expectations for energy efficiency, maintenance, and durability. MILGARD offers three popular materials: vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum.
Vinyl new construction doors are known for their cost-effectiveness, low maintenance, and excellent insulation properties. They’re made from durable PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which provides outstanding resistance to moisture and decay, making them ideal for climates prone to heavy rain and humidity. Vinyl is also an excellent insulator and requires minimal maintenance because it doesn’t need to be painted or stained.
Fiberglass new construction doors offer versatility and durability and are a great choice for nearly any climate. They’re constructed to withstand severe weather conditions without warping, denting, or rusting. Fiberglass is also excellent for thermal insulation, improving a home’s energy efficiency. Like vinyl, fiberglass doors are low-maintenance because they don’t rot, corrode, or require repainting.
Aluminum new construction doors are strong, sleek, and cost-effective, making them a popular option for homeowners. They’re lightweight yet strong, offering a sleek, contemporary look with slim frames and large glass panes that maximize natural light and views. Your builder can help you with the design and construction details of aluminum doors.
In new construction, doors are typically installed by professional door installers or general contractors. These professionals ensure that doors are properly aligned, fitted, and functional, adhering to building codes and design specifications. Their expertise helps in handling various types of doors and the specific challenges that might arise during installation in new construction settings.
New construction doors should be installed after the structural framing and roofing are completed but before finishing the interior walls and floors. Installing new construction doors at this stage minimizes potential damage during construction and allows for better access. Proper timing also makes it easier to adjust and align the windows before it’s too late in the process. Talk to your builder: They’ll know exactly when to install exterior doors in new construction.
To prep and install exterior new construction doors, start by ensuring the rough opening is square and properly sized. Install waterproof flashing and a sill pan for moisture protection. Set the door in the opening, use shims to level, check that it swings freely, and secure it with screws. Finish by sealing with caulk for weatherproofing.
Choosing the best type of door for new construction depends on several factors, including budget, design preferences, and functional requirements. Fiberglass doors are generally preferred for their durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency. However, vinyl doors offer aesthetic appeal and customization, while aluminum doors provide robust security and cost-effectiveness.
The cost of new construction doors can range broadly, typically from $200 to over $2,000 per door. Factors affecting price include the material, size, design complexity, and additional features like insulation, glass inserts, or security enhancements. Higher-end models and custom designs can significantly increase the cost.
