What’s the size of your doorway? Which colors and materials look aesthetically pleasing with the existing structure of the house? Can you find something that’s already on the market, or will you need something that’s custom-made? Experts say to start with these answers to identify the right patio door for your home.
Should I repair or replace my existing patio door?
The decision to repair or entirely replace a patio door is driven by many factors. The cost of replacing a two-panel, 60x80-inch sliding glass patio door ranges from $700 to $2,400, Homeguide estimates. Similarly, according to Housewyse, replacing a patio door costs between $882 to $1,372. Sometimes, replacing a patio door can cost less than installing a new one. With the opening and frame already in place, it can be much easier for a professional to simply replace a stock standard door with one right off the shelf. If you want a new or custom patio door, however, the costs quickly rise.
What are the different styles of patio doors available and how much do they cost?
Benjamin Stenson, London-based interior designer and CEO of Norsemen Home Remodelling, says that the first thing you should consider is how much you’re willing to spend on a patio door because there is no fixed price. “A rough estimate for a sliding glass patio door can range from $300 to $2,000. These costs are based on the design and installation. In comparison, hinged doors have prices ranging from $400 to $6,000 based on various factors.” French, sliding, swinging, and multi-slide doors are all popular choices. Generally, the more moving components and panels a door has, the more costly it is. The price of patio doors depends on the brand, material, size, type of glass (single, double, triple-pane), and color. In modern houses, many people prefer double or triple-pane doors, which are pricier but can save you money long-term since they’re more energy-efficient. They can also be good for soundproofing homes that are typically used for entertaining; these more expensive varieties can keep heating or cooling bills low. As a general rule of thumb, vinyl patio doors tend to be less expensive than aluminum, aluminum tends to be cheaper than fiberglass, and fiberglass less than wood. But there are always exceptions. Larger and custom sizes cost more than smaller and standard varieties, and they can take a lot of time to order and install. Volodymyr Barabakh Jr., the CEO of Structural Beam, a steel construction company and general contractor in Chicago, says “to come to a cost within your budget, you must consider the type and material of the door. Bi-fold patio doors are the most expensive, followed by French doors, then sliding patio doors. If you’re on a tight budget, then you could opt for uPVC as the material of choice. However, if you have the cash, then aluminum is an all-around popular choice for aesthetic and durability.” Barabakh says that with proper maintenance and predictable weather conditions, patio doors should last up to 30 years. Although, aluminum or wood doors will need minor general maintenance. Many people try to cut corners with cheap installation, but Stenson warns that “it is not recommended to do the DIY installation of patio doors unless you’ve had some experience installing windows.”
What are common mistakes to avoid?
Stenson says that the most common patio doors available in the market are hinged and sliding. “If you prefer a hinged patio door, make sure you have enough space to install one. Sliding patio doors are more suitable for small spaces.” These sizing issues can be the root of costly blunders. After all, if your doorway is standard, then your price tag could be just a few hundred dollars if you order a door off the shelf at a big-box store like Menards or The Home Depot. Another thing to keep in mind is how long you plan to make this house a home. If this is your forever home, then it might be worthwhile to do one big renovation that will make your space more enjoyable. French doors are a lifetime investment, so if this is just your starter home, it’s best to think twice about shelling out so much for a temporary stay. Lastly, an exterior door is exposed to the elements. It’s important to know the weather hazards in your area and make sure the door you choose works for all seasons. Folks in the Northeast and Midwest might need a storm door, while others on the West Coast and in the South can manage with just a screen door. If you’re new to the area and aren’t sure what will be most durable, consult local vendors and hardware stores that can provide the best local advice.
