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Highlights
- Replacing a patio door typically costs between $1,550 and $6,250, with a national average cost of $2,500.
- There are several key factors that impact the overall cost of patio door replacement, including the type and size of the door, the type of glass and number of panels, the door frame material and brand, and the cost of labor.
- Some of the main signs that a patio door needs to be replaced include operational difficulties, unusual noises, drafts, condensation between panes, or structural damage.
- Homeowners can save money by attempting a DIY patio door replacement, but unless they have experience with window and door replacement, they run the risk of making costly mistakes. For this reason, it’s best to hire a pro in most cases.
The best patio doors give homeowners easy access to outdoor living space and allow more light and air to circulate inside the home. When a patio door shows signs of wear and tear or inefficiency, or it needs an aesthetic upgrade, it might be time for homeowners to consider replacement.
How much does patio door replacement cost? According to Angi, the cost ranges from $1,550 to $6,250, with the national average at $2,500. The overall patio door installation cost depends on several key factors, as well as some potentially unexpected factors. This guide will explore additional costs and considerations that can affect the project along with tips on how homeowners can hire the right professional to replace their patio door.
Key Cost Factors
The main factors that affect the total cost of replacing a patio door include the door size and type, the type of glass, the number of panels, the door frame materials, the door brand, and labor.
Misrraim Cardenas, CEO of Austin, Texas-based Portella, a custom steel door and window manufacturing company, points out that replacing a patio door with something completely new will be more expensive than replacing the door with a newer option. “This is because a contractor will need to change the existing frame and install new hardware and fittings required for a new patio door to operate,” Cardenas explains.
Door Size and Type
A new patio door accounts for most of the overall replacement cost, between $400 and $10,000. The amount homeowners pay largely depends on the size and type of door, the complexity of the installation, and the cost of building and shipping the door to the home. Standard exterior doors are 80 inches high and 36 inches wide, but a sliding glass door and most patio doors are between 80 and 96 inches high and between 60 and 144 inches wide. Custom door sizes outside of the standard range generally cost more to build and install. If the existing space is too small for the replacement door, then it will cost more to open up the door frame to fit the new patio door.
Glass Type
The average patio door glass replacement cost ranges from $150 to $1,000, including labor. The price homeowners pay depends on the type of glass, surface area, and additional features. Each type of glass has its own advantages and considerations. A single pane of glass costs the least, ranging from $150 to $300, while hurricane-rated glass costs as much as $1,500. There’s also low-emissivity glass, or low-e glass, which has a transparent coating that improves the thermal efficiency of the window. There are other energy-efficient options available, including gas fill, spacers, and multiple-pane glass. The window glass replacement costs will depend on the type of glass chosen.
| Patio Door Glass Type | Average Price Range Per Pane |
| Energy-efficient | $350 to $600 |
| Hurricane-rated | $700 to $1,500 |
| Low-efficiency (low-e) | $250 to $450 |
| Single-pane | $150 to $300 |
| Tempered | $400 to $600 |
Number of Panels
The more panels used in the door, the higher the overall door replacement cost. On average, patio doors have two to four panels, which allow more sunlight into the home. Two panels cost anywhere from $400 to $2,400, three panels cost $1,000 to $3,500, four panels cost $2,000 to $7,000, and five or more panels on telescoping doors cost $1,500 to $5,000. Although telescoping doors (patio doors with at least five panels that slide and stack on top of one another to open) include multiple panels, they are often smaller and set on a single track.
Door Frame Material
In some situations, homeowners won’t have to replace the door frame. However, if the old frame is rotted or damaged, needs updating, or requires a larger opening for the door, homeowners will have to pay for a new one. Replacing the old door frame starts at $300 for vinyl and goes up to $2,500 for a wood frame. The cost to install larger frames is higher. Average prices start at $800 and go up to $5,000.
| Door Frame Material | Average Price Range |
| Aluminum | $600 to $2,000 |
| Fiberglass | $800 to $3,500 |
| Vinyl | $300 to $1,200 |
| Wood | $1,500 to $5,000 |
Door Brand
There are window and door companies as well as manufacturers that specialize in patio door solutions. There are many brands to choose from, and prices vary depending on the manufacturer and door features. Many of the best window and door brands offer patio doors, and some may also offer installation services.
Labor
Unless homeowners have experience with this type of home improvement project, they’ll want to hire a local contractor for patio door installation. Professionals typically charge between $70 and $120 per hour, and the typical job takes 3 to 5 hours to complete. The average cost of labor is between $400 and $1,400. The fluctuation in labor costs is due to various factors that can impact the installation job. For example, the conditions of the patio or the replacement of sliding glass doors with a hinged door could increase the time it takes to install or require more than one professional.
Additional Costs and Considerations
In addition to the typical factors used in calculating the patio door replacement cost, several more could help homeowners narrow down the total cost of the project. When budgeting for patio door installation, homeowners will want to consider several factors, such as existing door removal and disposal or the addition of security features.
Existing Door Removal and Disposal
Homeowners may consider removing the door themselves to save money, but disposal still adds to the cost. An exterior door must be disposed of properly, either by recycling or by using a junk removal service, which can cost between $100 and $400. When homeowners hire a contractor, this cost is likely included in the estimate, but it’s still important for them to ask. A junk removal company can also haul away installation waste and other debris.
Rollers and Tracks Replacement
Most sliding glass doors use a roller and track system to open and close. Homeowners can expect to pay between $20 and $40 to replace rollers, $75 to $250 for tracks, and $75 to $140 for labor. On average, homeowners will pay anywhere between $170 and $430 to replace the rollers and tracks on a patio door. Rollers and tracks don’t always require replacement, but they can become damaged after years of use. However, this type of repair isn’t always possible. The contractor will need to find rollers and tracks that are compatible with the existing door. If the contractor cannot find the necessary parts, then the homeowner will need to replace the door.
Door Knob or Handle Replacement
On average, homeowners will pay a professional between $120 and $250 to replace the door knob or handle on a patio door. For a DIY project, they can expect to pay $40 to $100. There could be added costs depending on locking mechanisms. The homeowner will need to choose a door knob or handle that matches the pattern of holes in the door in order for it to fit. They’ll also need to take into account the diameter of the hole, the length of the plunger, and the thickness of the door when choosing a new knob.
Insulation and Weatherstripping Installation
Hot or cold air can leak in and out of the house through the patio door, increasing the home’s energy bill. Insulation and weatherstripping help slow down the transfer of heat and improve the interior comfort levels of the home. This means that they help keep warm air inside during the winter and cold air inside during the summer. Adding additional insulation to the patio door costs between $300 and $600. Homeowners have several insulation options, including a weather seal, foam insulation sheets, and weatherproofing strips.
Security Features
Patio doors are considered vulnerable entry points for intruders, so homeowners will want to learn how to secure a sliding glass door. Installing a lock will cost anywhere from $20 to $700. A deadbolt costs around $30, while a dual-point locking system costs up to $300. For an advanced, remote-controlled smart lock, homeowners can expect to pay closer to the upper end of the price range.
Customizations
Homeowners have the option to add customizations to their patio door. However, this will increase the overall replacement cost. Korey Gregory, construction supervisor at ASAP Restoration LLC in Tempe, Arizona, says that “Custom doors will be the most expensive, so if you’re looking to save on the budget, getting a standard model would be an easy way to keep the belt tight,” he says. The most common customization options have a variable price range.
| Customization | Cost Range (Materials Only) |
| Built-in blinds or shade installation | $150 to $400 |
| Glass grid additions | $50 to $100 |
| Insulation | $300 to $600 |
| Pet door installation | $150 to $400 |
| Screen door installation | $100 to $1,500 |
| Smart lock installation | Up to $700 |
| Window tinting | $5 to $30 per square foot (including labor) |
| Window treatment installation | $20 to $150 |
Types of Patio Doors
Patio doors vary in price, depending on the style and materials used. For example, a simple French door costs around $400, while sliding glass doors start at $1,000. Homeowners will pay a premium for bifold doors, which can cost up to $10,000.
| Type of Door | Cost Range |
| Bifold door replacement | $3,000 to $10,000 |
| French door replacement | $400 to $4,000 |
| Sliding door replacement | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| Telescoping door replacement | $1,500 to $5,000 |
Bifold
A bifold door, also known as a folding glass door or an accordion door, is a type of door with two sections of glass that fold into one side of the frame instead of swinging in or out to open or close. The door panels are connected by hinges and move along a track to open. When fully opened, the panes stack against one another. Bifold doors offer a wider opening and can even span the length of an entire wall. Replacing them typically costs between $3,000 and $10,000, or $500 to $900 per linear square foot.
French
A French door is a patio door made mostly of glass. Most French doors have a large pane of glass sectioned into smaller panels, and there are inswing, outswing, and sliding door styles. French doors are generally wider at the top and sides than standard patio doors. They are designed to bring in more natural light and provide easy access to balconies or patio areas. The cost to install French doors starts at $400 but can run as much as $4,000 for larger doors, more elegant designs, and customizations. Homeowners may want to consider a one-panel door for smaller spaces. Another consideration is French door security, as most French doors pose a security risk to homes.
Sliding
Sliding glass door replacement can offer homeowners a better scenic view with lots of light. The cost of sliding glass door replacement is between $1,000 and $3,000. A standard two-panel door costs the least, with materials costing between $300 and $1,500. Three-panel sliding doors cost $700 to $3,000, while the cost of four-panel sliding doors ranges from $2,000 to $5,000. These costs to replace a sliding patio door include materials and labor. Homeowners may also want to consider adding window treatments. The best window treatments for sliding doors help homeowners control the amount of light in the room and add a decorative touch as well.
Telescoping
A telescoping door is similar to the bifold door, but instead, it’s made of three or more sections that slide and move independently. The panels are usually hinged together and slide on tracks installed at the top and/or bottom of the door. These doors are recommended for areas that require larger openings with limited space. Telescoping doors are commonly used in commercial buildings, such as hotels, hospitals, and shopping malls. The average price for a telescoping patio door is between $1,500 and $5,000.
Do I need patio door replacement?
Patio door replacement isn’t always necessary. Beyond aesthetic reasons, there are instances where damage or other issues may require homeowners to swap out parts or do a full replacement. But there are several reasons for homeowners to consider a patio door replacement.
Operational Difficulties
A patio door should slide, open and close, and latch easily. A common culprit is dirt or grime in the tracks and rollers. Homeowners can do some simple DIY cleaning with a wire brush or vacuum with a crevice tool along the door’s track. If cleaning these inner components doesn’t solve the problem, it may be time to replace the door. Operational difficulty that requires replacement typically happens due to direct sunlight warping the door or frame, improper installation, damaged rollers, or a damaged locking mechanism.
Unusual Noises
Patio doors should open and close silently. If there’s any noise, it’s likely a mechanical problem. This may only require replacing the sliding door track system. If an object is stuck along the track, homeowners can clean and lubricate the track to see if it clears the obstruction. Dirt or grime can also cause this to happen. If the problem persists or if there’s a squeaking or grinding noise, it may indicate that it’s time to replace the door.
Drafts
Exterior doors have seals around them that keep wind, rain, and hot or cold air from entering the home. However, after several years of use, the seal can wear and allow drafts inside. Broken seals will keep the home from maintaining a desirable temperature, which can increase heating and cooling bills. A proper seal can also prevent moisture, bugs, and other pests from coming into the home and causing damage.
“If it can fit a dime, it can fit a mouse, and then you’re only one dropped table scrap of food away from inviting an infestation into your home,” warns Gregory.
Condensation Between Panes
Condensation on the outside of a window is normal, but moisture between the window panes is a problem. When this happens, it means the seal around the window has broken and the insulating gas has leaked out. Condensation between panes can lead to mold growth and damage to the surrounding area. It can also affect the efficiency of windows and increase the home’s energy bills. In some situations, a homeowner may be able to hire one of the best window replacement companies (such as Renewal by Andersen or Pella) to have that window panel replaced. But in most cases, a full patio door replacement is necessary.
Structural Damage
Normal wear and tear or underlying issues with the patio door can lead to structural damage. Scratches, dents, and chipped paint will happen over time and can leave the door exposed to the elements. Moisture can make its way into cracks or scratches in the door’s material and cause the door to deteriorate, like rotted framing. A patio door with structural damage can also leave the home vulnerable to break-ins. In this case, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire door rather than make repairs.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
Going the DIY route can save homeowners on costs, but replacing a patio door isn’t a simple project. The cost for labor is between $400 and $1,400, while a DIY job will cost between $100 and $500. Unless it’s a door knob or lock replacement, exterior door installation requires precise measurements as well as specialized tools and skills. If it’s not installed correctly, it could compromise the structural integrity of the home, leading to issues such as drafts, leaks, and potential safety concerns. Improper installation can also lead to gaps and poor seals, increasing the home’s heating and cooling costs. Many door manufacturers require professional installation, and DIYing could void the warranty and leave the homeowner financially responsible for future repairs or replacements.
Cardenas says some handy homeowners may be able to do a door replacement themselves, but some doors are more complex to install than others. “I would never recommend homeowners install sliding, bi-folding, automated, or heavy security doors on their own because they are expensive, and improper installation can cost you more than hiring a professional,” he says.
A professional installer will know the proper safety and installation procedures required to replace the patio door. Pros typically work in teams to safely move the door to its final installation spot. If damage occurs during installation, the company will cover the cost to fix or replace the door. Inexperienced homeowners will take considerably longer than a pro to completely replace a patio door. Contractors can complete the installation within 3 to 5 hours. Homeowners will want to do their due diligence and get several estimates to find the best-qualified professional for the job who fits their budget.
How to Save Money
Patio door replacement can be costly, but there are ways to save on installation costs. The following strategies can help homeowners keep their patio door installation costs on the lower end of the price range.
- Get multiple estimates. Getting multiple quotes allows homeowners to compare services and the costs involved from each company. “Be wary of contractors who try to charge you for an estimate, and avoid using anyone with bad reviews online,” Gregory warns.
- Consider doing some DIY work. Replacing a door knob or handle is a simple DIY job that most homeowners can tackle themselves.
- Choose a budget-friendly material. Some patio door materials are more expensive than others, so homeowners may want to consider a less expensive material to lower the overall cost.
- Replace only what’s necessary. Exterior doors don’t always require a complete replacement. If the door doesn’t work properly, there could be something wrong with the track rather than the door itself.
- Replace with a similar-size door. Gregory recommends replacing the patio door with something as close in size as the one already there. “Changing sizes can mean a lot more work in the form of cutting out additional structural material in the way and shoring up any walls that need it to accommodate [the new door],” Gregory explains.
- Plan ahead of time. Contractors may offer special deals and discounts when homeowners schedule door replacements during the slower seasons.
Questions to Ask a Pro
Before hiring a patio door installer, homeowners will want to ask the right questions. This will allow them to make an informed decision and likely lead to a better outcome.
- How long have you been in business?
- Can you provide examples of similar patio door replacements you’ve completed?
- Do you have references?
- What’s included in the estimate?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What are my options for the type of patio door, and what is the cost for each one?
- What size and type of sliding patio door do you recommend?
- What types of locking mechanisms can I choose from?
- What is your timeline for the project?
- Who will be my point of contact?
- Who will supervise the project?
- Do you need permits? Will you acquire them?
- How much is the deposit?
- Who is working with you? Are they licensed and insured?
- Do you offer warranties or guarantees on your work?
- Will you handle cleanup and disposal?
- What payment methods do you accept?
- Do I need to make any preparations beforehand?
FAQs
Homeowners will want to get all the information they need about the cost of installation and the entire process. Here are the most frequently asked questions about patio door replacement costs.
A homeowner can save money by replacing a patio door on their own, but hiring a patio door installer is recommended. An incorrect installation can result in an unlevel door or a door with gaps and poor seals. A professional will take the proper safety precautions and complete the job in a timely manner.
How long a patio door lasts depends on whether it was installed correctly and has received proper care. With maintenance, such as regular cleaning any necessary repairs, a sliding glass patio door can last 20 to 30 years.
A high-quality patio door and installation job can help increase the value of a home. Patio doors can improve the home’s energy efficiency while allowing in plenty of natural light, providing a seamless transition between the indoors and outdoors and boosting the home’s curb appeal. How much a patio door increases the home’s value depends on its location and the door’s style.
Angi, Architectural Digest, HomeAdvisor, Porch