Screen Doors for French Doors: 7 Top Picks

Ever wondered how to enjoy the summer breeze without letting bugs invade your home? Screen doors for French doors might be the solution you’ve been searching for. They not only fit beautifully with your existing decor but also provide functional benefits like improved air circulation and pest control. Let’s explore the various options available and see which screen door suits your needs best.

Screen doors for French doors offer the perfect balance between enjoying fresh air and keeping insects out, with specialized designs that complement the elegant double-door aesthetic. These practical additions maintain the beauty of French doors while adding functionality, allowing homeowners to experience indoor-outdoor living without the nuisance of bugs or debris.

Introduction

Screen doors for French doors are specialized barriers designed to fit the unique double-door opening while allowing fresh air to flow through your home. They provide essential bug protection without sacrificing the elegant aesthetic that makes French doors so appealing. Installing screen doors on French doors offers multiple benefits: improved ventilation, protection from insects, enhanced energy efficiency, and the ability to enjoy nature without unwanted visitors. These screens come in several styles to match different preferences, home designs, and functional needs.

Types of Screen Doors for French Doors

When shopping for screen doors for French doors, you’ll encounter three main types, each with distinct advantages for different situations.

Retractable Screen Doors

Retractable screen doors have become increasingly popular for French door applications. These screens roll into a housing when not in use, making them practically invisible. The housing typically mounts to the side of the door frame, and you pull the screen across when needed. According to Apollo Screen, retractable models offer the cleanest aesthetic since they disappear completely when not in use.

Pros	Cons
✅Disappear completely when not needed	❌Typically more expensive than other options
✅Preserve the original look of French doors	❌May require professional installation
✅Available in custom sizes and colors	❌Moving parts can wear out over time
✅Don’t interfere with door operation

Hinged Double Screen Doors

Hinged double screen doors mirror the function of your French doors, with two panels that swing outward. These traditional screen doors attach directly to the door frame and operate independently of your French doors.

Pros	Cons
✅ Classic, matching appearance	❌ Require space to swing open
✅ Sturdy construction	❌ Always visible, affecting aesthetics
✅ Full coverage of the doorway	❌ May interfere with door operation if not properly installed
✅ Often more durable for homes with pets

Sliding Screen Doors

Sliding screen doors operate on tracks installed at the top and bottom of the door frame. For French doors, double sliding panels meet in the middle, allowing access from either side.

Pros	Cons
✅Don’t require swing space	❌Tracks can collect debris
✅Easy operation	❌Always visible when installed
✅Good for limited space situations	❌May limit the opening width slightly
✅Often less expensive than retractable options

Key Features to Consider When Choosing Screen Doors

Size Compatibility and Measurements

Before purchasing a screen door for your French doors, accurate measurements are essential. Measure the entire door opening width and height, not just the glass panels. Most standard French doors are around 72″ wide and 80″ tall, but custom sizes exist. Many screen door manufacturers offer adjustable options or custom sizing to ensure a perfect fit.

Material Durability and Frame Construction

The durability of your screen door depends largely on its frame material. Aluminum frames offer a good balance of strength and weight, while vinyl provides affordability but less durability. For high-traffic areas or homes with pets, look for reinforced corner joints and thicker frame profiles that can withstand daily use.

Mesh Quality and Visibility

Screen mesh comes in various materials and densities:

• Fiberglass: Standard, affordable, and offers good visibility
• Aluminum: More durable but slightly less transparent
• Pet-resistant mesh: Reinforced to withstand scratching and impact
• Solar/privacy mesh: Reduces UV rays and provides more privacy

The Spruce recommends choosing mesh with at least 18×16 strands per square inch for effective insect protection while maintaining good visibility.

Operation Style and Closing Mechanisms

Consider how the screen door closes and stays shut. Options include:

• Magnetic closures: Self-sealing and convenient
• Mechanical latches: More secure but require manual operation
• Slow-close mechanisms: Prevent slamming and extend door life
• Spring-loaded retraction: For retractable models

Color Options and Aesthetic Integration

To maintain your home’s appearance, choose a screen door that complements your existing doors. Many manufacturers offer multiple color options to match or contrast with your French doors. White, black, bronze, and wood-grain finishes are common choices that blend with most home styles.

Our 7 Top Picks for French Door Screen Doors

Here are seven excellent screen door options that work perfectly with French doors, each offering unique features to suit different needs:

Installation and Maintenance

DIY Installation Options and Tools Needed

Many screen doors for French doors are designed for homeowner installation. For a typical DIY installation, you’ll need:

• Measuring tape
• Drill with appropriate bits
• Screwdriver set
• Level
• Pencil for marking
• Hacksaw (for trimming if needed)

Magnetic screen doors are typically the easiest to install, often requiring just adhesive strips or basic hardware. Retractable screens may come with detailed templates to help with positioning.

When to Consider Professional Installation

Professional installation might be worth the investment for:

• Custom-sized retractable screens
• Homes with non-standard door frames
• High-end screen door systems
• Situations where precise alignment is critical

According to Mirage Screen Systems, professional installation typically costs $100-300 but can ensure proper operation and longevity, especially for complex retractable systems.

Maintenance Requirements and Cleaning Tips

To keep your screen doors functioning properly:

• Clean mesh regularly with a soft brush or vacuum attachment
• Wipe down tracks or guides monthly to remove debris
• Spray silicone lubricant on moving parts annually
• Check and tighten hardware seasonally
• Wash mesh with mild soap and water as needed

For retractable screens, avoid forcing the mechanism if it sticks—instead, check for obstructions in the track.

Common Troubleshooting Issues

If you encounter problems with your screen door:

Issue	Possible Cause	Solution
Screen won’t retract smoothly	Debris in track or tension issues	Clean track, adjust spring tension
Gaps around edges	Improper installation or sizing	Adjust position, add weatherstripping
Magnetic closure not sealing	Misalignment or weak magnets	Realign strips, replace magnets if needed
Torn or damaged mesh	Impact damage or wear	Patch small holes or replace mesh panel

Pet and Child-Friendly Options

Reinforced Mesh Considerations

If you have pets or children, standard mesh may not withstand daily use. Look for pet-resistant screen materials that offer:

• 7x stronger tear resistance than standard fiberglass
• Puncture-resistant weave patterns
• PET (polyethylene terephthalate) or vinyl-coated polyester construction
• Reinforced edges to prevent pulling away from frames

These specialized meshes cost more but can save money by avoiding frequent replacements.

Safety Features to Look For

For households with young children, prioritize screen doors with:

• Smooth edges without pinch points
• Childproof latches or higher handles
• Slow-close mechanisms to prevent slammed fingers
• Break-away features that prevent tripping hazards

Magnetic vs. Mechanical Closing Mechanisms

Both closing styles offer advantages for families:

Magnetic closures provide hands-free operation ideal for children carrying items or adults with full hands. They create a continuous seal that automatically realigns if bumped, making them perfect for busy households.

Mechanical latches offer more security but require manual operation. For homes with curious toddlers who might push through a magnetic closure, a mechanical latch positioned higher on the door might be preferable.

Sizing and Custom Solutions

Standard Sizes for French Door Screens

Most manufacturers offer screen doors in these common dimensions:

• 72″ x 80″ (6′ wide by 6’8″ tall)
• 60″ x 80″ (5′ wide by 6’8″ tall)
• 72″ x 96″ (6′ wide by 8′ tall)

These sizes accommodate standard French door openings, but always measure your specific doors before ordering.

Custom Sizing Options

For non-standard French doors, many companies offer custom solutions:

• Made-to-order screens based on exact measurements
• Adjustable frames that can be trimmed on-site
• Modular systems that can be configured for various widths

According to Best Custom Screens, custom sizing typically adds 15-30% to the cost but ensures a perfect fit for unusual door dimensions.

Measuring Your French Doors Correctly

Follow these steps for accurate measurements:

1. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening
2. Measure the height on the left, center, and right sides
3. Use the smallest measurements to ensure proper fit
4. For retractable screens, measure the depth available for housing
5. Note any hardware or trim that might interfere with installation

Adapting to Inswing vs. Outswing Doors

The swing direction of your French doors affects which screen door type works best:

• For outswing French doors: Retractable or hinged screens mounted on the interior work well
• For inswing French doors: Retractable screens mounted on the exterior or magnetic screens are ideal

Some manufacturers offer specialized solutions for challenging configurations, such as surface-mounted retractable screens that don’t interfere with door swing in either direction.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Best Overall Screen Door for French Doors

Based on versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal, the Brisa Retractable Screen Door stands out as the best overall option. Its smooth operation, nearly invisible profile when not in use, and custom sizing capabilities make it suitable for most French door applications. The retractable design preserves your door’s appearance while providing reliable bug protection.

Best Budget Option

For homeowners on a budget, the Fenestrelle Magnetic Screen Door offers excellent value. This affordable solution provides effective insect protection with a self-closing magnetic seal that’s convenient for high-traffic areas. While not as elegant as retractable options, it delivers practical functionality at a fraction of the cost.

Best for Pet Owners

Pet owners should consider the Upgraded PET Mesh Screen Door, which features reinforced materials specifically designed to withstand scratching and impact from dogs and cats. The stronger mesh construction and secure magnetic closure create a pet-resistant barrier that won’t need frequent replacement.

Final Considerations When Making Your Choice

When selecting a screen door for your French doors, balance these factors:

• Your budget and willingness to invest in long-term quality
• The architectural style of your home
• Local climate and seasonal usage patterns
• Household needs (pets, children, accessibility)
• Installation capabilities (DIY vs. professional)

The perfect screen door enhances your French doors’ functionality without compromising their elegant appearance. With today’s diverse options, you can find a solution that fits your specific requirements while adding value to your home.

FAQs