Hello all, my name is Charlene and I'm new here. I really need some home improvement help, and this seemed like a great place to come. Thank you all so much in advance for the advice!

I'm looking to install patio doors in the lower level of my home. The style that would work for me is a bit off the wall, and I swear that they don't exist, because I've been looking all over the internet and cannot find them. I want 2 door panels, but I want one to be fixed/non-moving/un-openable. Not sure what you call that exactly. And the other panel I want to open like a French door; I want the hinge to be on the outside frame, not the center. I can find PLENTY of center hinge patio doors with one fixed panel, but none where the hinge is on the side frame. Do they exist? I'm looking for something that's not too expensive either. I found a site where you can customize a patio door, and it's thousands of dollars. Am I really going to have to pay that much just because I want the hinge on the side and with one fixed panel? I hope not! Does anyone have any suggestions at all?

 

You can get fixed panels from many companies. I like Andersen, and their catalog has fixed panels and hinged panels. The hinged panel can hinge from either side. Their catalog does not show a combined unit hinged as you desire. But I see no reason why you can't get a fixed panel and a hinged panel and mull(join) them to give your combination. Talk to an Andersen dealer in your area, preferrably not a big box store. Local lumberyards nearly always have better trained staff to answer your questions. Marvin makes custom doors/windows, but they can be pricey.

Hope this helps.

 

Any set of french doors will have one panel held in place with slide bolts that can be opened if need be. That should work for you. This is one company of many: http://www.milgard.com/products/fiberglass-patio-doors/