Signs it's time
- The door drags or jumps the track
- Fogging between the glass panes
- Daylight or dust around the edges
- A latch that doesn't really lock
Your options
- Vinyl sliders — the most affordable, good insulation
- Fiberglass and composite — stiffer panels for wide doors and dark colors
- Clad wood — wood inside to match trim and floors
- Multi-panel — three- and four-panel doors for wide openings
Glass and safety
Patio door glass is tempered by code. Low-E coatings cut heat from afternoon sun on west-facing patios. Ask about grids, blinds-between-glass options and better locks.
Installation
We remove the old door and frame, check the sill and subfloor for water damage, set the new frame level and plumb, flash the sill, and seal the exterior to the stucco.
Patio doors can also qualify for the New Mexico tax credit when ENERGY STAR rated. Call (505) 616-3368.
Common questions
How long does a patio door replacement take?
Most are done in a day.
Can I switch from a slider to French doors?
Often, yes, if the opening works. See French and hinged patio doors.