Aesthetically speaking, sliding glass doors are tough to beat, but having them installed in place of regular doors is a big decision. Shepard's Glass of Kalispell, MT, has been operating as the premier glazing contractor in the area since 1959, assisting customers with everything from window repairs to glass door installation and beyond. You can't beat their pedigree if you're looking to install sliding glass doors, but you'll want to weigh the pros and cons first.

Advantages of sliding glass doors include:

• Bright & Open Living Space: In addition to being stylish, sliding glass doors will really brighten up your home. Even when they're open, they take up less space thanks to their unhinged nature, and they bring in an abundance of light. Adding a screen to the exterior will also allow you to enjoy the breeze.
• Environmentally Friendly: Typical sliding glass doors pretty much entirely consist of glass and metal frames, making them an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional wood doors.

The disadvantages of sliding doors are fairly straightforward:

• Pricier Alternative: While the end result is worth it, sliding glass doors tend to be more expensive overall.
• Requires More Maintenance: Depending on where you live and what kind of weather conditions you deal with, you might find sliding glass doors a less durable option. There will also be a slight increase in maintenance thanks to the glass, which will show dirt and streaks more clearly. In the case of damage, cracked glass will need to be replaced immediately to ensure safety.

Even with the cons in mind, most homes can benefit from the addition of sliding glass doors. If you decide to make the switch, visit Shepard's Glass for the best service possible. Head to their website for more information, and call them at (406) 755-4540.