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Founded in 1982 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Trimlite has grown from a small manufacturer of decorative glass inserts for steel doors into a leading manufacturer and distributor of residential doors and door products across North America. Headquartered in Renton, Washington, Trimlite operates 10 locations in four countries, serving a diverse network of wholesale distributors, dealers, local door retailers, and OEM customers. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Trimlite continues to expand its offerings and geographical reach, ensuring that customers have access to modern, stylish, and durable door solutions. As a proudly Canadian retailer, Windsor Plywood is pleased to offer Trimlite's range of products, providing customers with high-quality door solutions backed by expert advice and personalized service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What French door products does Windsor Plywood carry?
Windsor Plywood carries French doors for both interior and exterior applications from Trimlite, Jeld-Wen, Masonite, and other manufacturers. French door configurations include hinged interior passage pairs, pre-hung exterior patio door systems, bifold French doors, and doors with matching sidelites and transoms. Both clear glass and decorative glass insert options are available.
What defines a French door?
A French door is characterized by glass panels that run the full or substantial height of the door leaf, allowing light to pass through and maintaining visual connection between spaces. Traditional French doors feature multiple divided light glass panes held in a wood muntin grid. Contemporary versions use a single large glass panel or simulated divided lights with a grille attached to the glass surface.
What is the difference between true divided lights and simulated divided lights?
True divided lights use individual small glass panes held between solid wood muntins. Simulated divided lights use a single large glass pane with a decorative grille applied to the interior and exterior surfaces to mimic the appearance of divided lights. True divided lights are more expensive and the traditional standard for fine interior French doors. Simulated divided lights are more common in production doors and provide the traditional appearance at lower cost.
What glass options are available for Windsor Plywood French doors?
French door glass options include clear glass, privacy glass in obscure and frosted patterns, decorative glass with textured or coloured patterns, tempered safety glass for exterior patio door applications, and decorative beveled glass from specialty manufacturers like Trimlite. Confirm the specific glass options available for the door model you are considering with your local Windsor Plywood location.
Are French doors suitable for exterior applications in Canada?
Yes. Exterior patio French door systems from manufacturers including Jeld-Wen and Masonite are designed for Canadian exterior conditions with ENERGY STAR qualification, thermally broken frames, insulated glass units, and weatherstripping systems. Exterior French doors require more careful weatherstripping maintenance than single-leaf doors due to the meeting point of the two door panels being a potential air and moisture infiltration point.