Doors and Windows - Choosing exterior french doors

Greetings!

I can't find a more appropriate place to post this, so here goes. I am trying to choose a replacement for sliding glass doors to our patio, but am a little confused by the choices. I haven't found any educational type articles anywhere on how to compare quality of french doors (hello manufacturers?)

One dealer recommended a vinyl Amerimax version for us (a commissioned dealer), but how do I know the difference between something sold at Home Depot/Lowes at $400 ea. and the seemingly more upscale ones at $1000 - $2000 ea.? I live in Phoenix now, so ability to withstand heat is key. The dealer mentioned that most vinyl french doors are not appropriate for this climate.

Any suggestions on a starting point? Ideas on manufacturers who make high quality doors at a good value?

Thanks in advance!!

If you want a decent french door that won't give you any trouble down the road, I'd suggest you avoid vinyl altogether. Having worked with vinyl windows and doors for quite some time, I'm aware that they have limitations, and doors are where I draw the line- ESPECIALLY in Arizona. Vinyl expands and contracts dramatically in hot and cold weather, and I would doubt the longevity of vinyl doors in your climate. (i've got relatives in Tucson!) I'm sure people are selling them and putting them in, but I sure wouldn't.

For something of high value, such as a french door, my suggestion would be to stick with a reputable company such as Pella, Anderson, Peachtree, Marvin, Stanley (Masonite), ThermaTru, Jeldwen, etc. and go with a wood/clad, or fiberglass, or prefinished steel door.

You might want to save a few $$$ by putting in some other brand, but if your unhappy with a cheap door in under 5 years, was it really worth replacing?

XSleeper,

Thank you for the information, it was exceedingly helpful. I googled 'french doors' and other terms and could not find a comprehensive list of reputable manufacturers like you provided ... so now I have a starting point.

Thanks for the tips on door construction, the vinyl idea does seem a bad one in AZ :)

Thank you again!!!

glad I was of some help! :)