Replacing a Sliding Glass Door

So, you got excited about your new pool and ran right through the glass door? No problem! It happens to the best of us. But, now you are wondering how to replace a sliding glass door. If you follow the steps below, you should have a new door in no time.

Choosing a New Sliding Glass Door

When considering what types of doors to purchase, know your options. Most frames are made of either aluminum or wood, and you can often customize the finish. There are pros and cons to each material, though wood is gaining in popularity for aesthetic reasons. The price for a door that is 6-feet wide is typically around $1000 - $2000, and you can add features such as insect screens, custom sizing, or glazing, which increase the cost.

You can also lower your energy bills and give the environment a hand by choosing doors made of certain, low-emission materials.

How to Replace a Sliding Glass Door

Assuming the frame from your previous door is in place, let's work on how to replace a sliding glass door. First, mark the frame to indicate where the new screws will go. Typically, an electric drill is the best tool for inserting screws into your wall. Your new doors should come with an instructional manual that will indicate the hardware you need, so keep that handy. As long as the door fits into the existing frame, you should be able to lift the sliding door into the space created, and screw it into the frame using the instructed hardware. If you need a little extra help with this, or any of the installation, look locally for someone who knows just how to replace a sliding glass door.

Safety Tip: If you need to drill into your wall, cut your electricity to that area.

Functionality Tip: Adding a dollop of caulk inside the screw holes will help waterproof them.

Design Tip: Use a level when installing the door to make sure everything is aligned.