[RWebb]

I have a sliding patio door that is old, nasty aluminum and always feels cold when I put my hand against it in winter, etc. It sweats, and I figure it probably leaks air too.

I don't think there is room to put an inswing French door there, and an outswing would require me to replace the concrete step next to it and put in a full deck above the surface of the small patio.

OTOH, I hear that sliding doors always leak more than French doors (due to the sliding door not pushing up against the seals).

Are there any strong arguments in favor of replacing the unit with French doors?

And, if I do go ahead with a sliding glass door... thoughts on the best brands? I'd like the interior to be wood and hopefully match the Doug. fir trim I am putting in all over the house.

One final tidbit: whatever it is has to be carried down a hill about 20 ft. vertically and maybe 200 ft. horizontally... (but I figure 2 young kids can do that ok).