Hello Chipmonk. My final decision was to forgo the blind option altogether. We didn't need them for privacy, just for sun and heat protection. I thought I'd end up selecting a window treatment covering to minimize the sun and heat after the installation, but I haven't needed one. With my builders assistance, we chose Harvey Building Products door and window for our kitchen and decided upon the Tribute line...double pane sliding patio door (they don't put interior blinds in their doors), and double pane sliding window over the sink (so effortless to slide). We noticed a difference immediately with the double glazed, low E argon, easy sun clean glass. The amount of sun and heat that gets through is mimimal compared to our original glass. We have been through the heat of the summer and surprisingly we never missed having blinds. This glass has been wonderful for blocking out a considerable amount of noise, the suns rays, and heat...far exceding my expectations. Upon closing the slider the heat is sealed off and you can visibly see the reduction of the suns rays. We coundn't be more pleased with our selection. I enjoy having the wide open windows for unobstructed light and view. Wishing you well with your project and good luck with your final selections.

I have a patio door with a single sidelight the same width as one of the patio doors. It looks like a 3 panel setup but only two of the doors open. I think they are 36" wide but would have to double check. So a bit wider that your existing opening. Looks similar to the door in the picture but i have two doors that open.

jprobins: If I may be blunt, you're in denial. You are going to spend quite a bit of money for good quality doors in a hurricane zone. Make sure you don't need the darkened "turtle glass" which keeps your nighttime light pollution from confusing sea turtles to walk toward you instead of the moonlight over the sea. The codes are very strict regarding window/door installation in hurricane areas. You need a professional contractor, not your brother-in-law or a local handyman. WinDoor is the Cadillac of sliding doors. Amazing quality. I pushed a 4'x8' with one finger.

I agree with Fori, you are talking to the wrong sales people. For years early in my career, seems almost all I did was change out sliders to french doors. For your opening size and situation, you could use several combinations of door and sidelight combos. For example, a pair of 32" swinging french, with a 32" fixed sidelight. If your rough opening won't accept that, perhaps a 30" sidelight and/or 30" doors.