Reviewed by Mario Garcia, General Manager at Windows Hawaii
Sliding vs. French Patio Doors
Both styles open your home to the lanai. The right one depends on your space, how you use it and how much wind and rain the opening takes.
| Sliding patio door | French patio door | |
|---|---|---|
| How it opens | Panels glide along a track | Doors swing in or out on hinges |
| Space needed | None, great for tight lanais and furniture near the door | Needs clearance for the door to swing |
| Opening size | Part of the width opens, unless you choose a four-panel OXXO layout | Both doors can open for a wide, open entry |
| Look | Clean and modern, lots of glass | Classic, with a strong frame around each door |
| Locking | Standard lock plus optional stainless foot bolt | 3-point locking system |
| Built-in pet door | Available | Available |
Anlin Malibu Sliding Patio Doors
- Smooth, quiet rolling. QuadraGlide rollers ride on a stainless steel track, which matters in salt air where steel tracks rust and stick.
- Six layouts. Two-panel (XO or OX), three-panel (XOO, OOX, OXO) and four-panel OXXO, with transoms available on most layouts.
- Heights from 6 to 8 feet to fit standard openings and taller modern walls.
- Heavy-duty screen. The AlumaForce screen frame is built to resist bending, with screening that keeps bugs out while letting the breeze through.
- Extra security. An optional foot bolt lock adds dual 1/4″ stainless steel bolts.
- Pet door option. An in-glass pet door in four sizes, so you don’t need a panel insert in the track.
Anlin Malibu French Doors
- In-swing or out-swing. Choose the direction that works best for your space and exposure.
- Flexible layouts. Single doors, double doors and combinations with fixed panels, including OXO and OXXO.
- 3-point locking system for a tight seal and better security.
- Operable sidelights that open inward for extra ventilation.
- Heights from 6 to 8 feet.
Glass Options
All Malibu patio doors use tempered safety glass, with several Low-E packages to choose from. According to Anlin, these are the most popular options:
| Glass package | Low-E layers | UV blocked |
|---|---|---|
| Infinit-e (standard) | 3 | 95% |
| SunShield | 3 | 98% |
| SunMatrix | 4 | 99% |
For west-facing lanais that bake in the afternoon sun, SunMatrix gives the most heat and UV protection. Learn more in our Low-E glass guide.
Colors, Grids and Hardware
Malibu doors come in white, tan and adobe inside and out, plus 12 exterior ThermaCoat colors such as Architectural Black, Espresso and Forest Green. You can add grids in colonial, perimeter or Queen Anne patterns and choose traditional or contemporary handles in finishes like satin nickel, bronze, satin black and polished brass.
Anlin’s Double Lifetime Warranty
Malibu patio doors are backed by Anlin’s Limited Double Lifetime Warranty, which covers accidental glass breakage, parts and labor, and can transfer to the next owner if you sell your home. Windows Hawaii handles warranty service locally.
Patio Door Tips for Hawaii Homes
- Think about wind and rain. Openings that face the trades or take blowing rain need a door that seals tightly when closed. We’ll look at your exposure and recommend the right style and swing.
- Keep tracks clean. Sand and salt are the enemies of sliding doors. Vacuum the track and rinse it with fresh water every month or two.
- Add a security screen. A security screen door lets you leave the patio door open for air without leaving your home open.
- Shade the lanai. Pair a new door with a patio cover to keep sun and rain off the opening.
How Much Do Patio Doors Cost?
Price depends on the size, number of panels, glass package and options like grids, colors and a pet door. Our sliding glass door replacement cost guide breaks down typical prices, and a free in-home estimate gets you an exact quote.
Patio Door FAQs
Can you replace a sliding door with French doors?
Often, yes. French doors need room to swing, and the opening may need some framing work. We’ll check during your estimate.
Can I add a pet door to my new patio door?
Yes. Malibu sliding and French doors can be ordered with an in-glass pet door in four sizes. See our pet door page.
How long does patio door installation take?
Doors are made to order, so there’s a wait for manufacturing and shipping. Once the door arrives, installation moves quickly, and we’ll give you a schedule before work starts.
Do you install patio doors and windows together?
Yes. Many homeowners replace their patio door along with their windows so everything matches.
Ready for a new patio door? Call 808-671-0808 or request a free estimate.





