Sliding glass doors can be attractive if you enjoy having natural light in your space. These doors also allow you to enjoy the warmth without leaving the comfort of your couch. Unfortunately, sliding doors get damaged over time, and replacements are usually necessary. But can you replace only one side?
Yes, you can replace just one side sliding door as long as the patio door frame is in good condition. Sometimes, only the glass requires replacement, not the whole door. However, before you try to DIY replace your door, ensure you have the right skills and tools to complete the project.
Sliding glass door replacement cost varies from one material to the other depending on the size and the style of the door. When replacing your sliding door, homeowners must understand all the pricing variables. So now, let’s learn more about replacing one side of a sliding glass door.
Can You Replace One Side of a Sliding Glass Door?
You can replace one side of your sliding glass door as long as you buy the part that fits.
Here’s how to tell your sliding door needs attention:
- Broken Rollers: Broken rollers leave you with a jammed door. Replace your rollers (on Amazon) to make it easy to operate the door from one side to the other.
- Twisted Door: A twisted sliding door means the door has moved off the track due to a lack of support. Check this problem immediately.
- Bent Track: A bent track can break your sliding door when you close or open it.
- Broken Glass: Damaged or broken glass need to be given immediate attention. If not addressed on time, broken glass will create a significant problem.
Should You Replace Just the Glass or the Whole Door?
Depending on the condition of your sliding door, you may only need to replace the door or part of the door. Sometimes, just replacing the glass is enough.
Replacing the glass if damaged will only help you save on cost. However, when replacing just the glass, you must ensure you buy the exact cut to fit your sliding door.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: Which is Better?
Before you try to DIY replace your sliding door, ask yourself these questions:
Do You Have a Means of Transport?
Do you have a way to transport the new door? You can easily transport the door if you have a truck or access to one. However, if you don’t own a truck or have access to one, you’re likely to incur additional delivery costs on top of the buying price of your door.
Do You Have the Proper Skill Set?
You can install a sliding door inside an existing frame as long as the frame hasn’t been damaged from frequent use. If damage is present, you may need help to replace the frame. Also, if it’s an exterior door, always install it tightly to provide energy efficiency and proper security.
Before embarking on this DIY, ensure you have the right skill set to avoid improper installation that can damage your door, walls, or floors.
What Tools Do You Have?
You will at least need a screwdriver, level, pry bar, clamps, hammer, and a milter saw (on Amazon) to replace a sliding door. However, you may need several additional tools depending on the size of the sliding door.
Do you have time?
Find out how much you’re willing to dedicate to this DIY project before you start. For example, if it’s your first time replacing an exterior door, you’re likely to take much longer than a professional installer would take.
Benefits of Hiring a Pro
Once you’ve considered the above factors, you can decide whether to DIY replace your sliding door or hire a professional.
Here are the benefits of hiring a pro:
Free Consultations
Most professionals provide a free consultation to understand your requirements and offer an accurate cost estimate for proper budgeting. Also, a professional can help you find the best sliding door for your home.
Professional Affiliations
A professional remodeling company should always be insured and will be affiliated with professional bodies. With these affiliations, you’re assured of quality service.
Exclusive Warranties
A professional installation company will provide a warranty on its product. Many installers also offer coverage on their workmanship for at least a year.
They are also manufacturers who insist that a professional installation company must install their products to ensure your product warranty remains valid.
# Remember
Hiring a professional doesn’t mean you don’t utilize capabilities around your home. For example, if you can replace your sliding door on your own, that’s a good thing.
However, it’s a challenging task; that’s why it’s only recommended to do this yourself if you’re equipped with the right skills and tools.
What is the Cost of Replacing One Side of a Sliding Glass Door?
Once your sliding door starts to leak, it’s not energy efficient or becomes damaged; it’s time to replace it.
When replacing one side of your sliding door, you won’t have any structural work to handle. Depending on the door glass type, door size, brand, and the number of panels, the cost may range from $300 to $1800.
Cost of Other Material
- Aluminum: Aluminum material is easy to clean and durable. However, you may have problems like rust and scratches. An aluminum sliding glass door can cost between $250 to $1500.
- Solid Wood: It’s an attractive option with superior quality. However, it’s an expensive option that also needs regular maintenance. Solid wood sliding doors can cost between $550 to $2000.
- Clad Wood: This is a wood-like material that’s weather-resistant, expensive to buy, and requires regular maintenance. Clad wood sliding door can cost between $800 to $2500.
- Fiberglass: It’s an energy-efficient wood-like material that lasts long with minimum maintenance. Its primary disadvantage is cost. Fiberglass sliding doors can cost between $400 to $2500.
- PVC: This is an economical and long-lasting sliding door option. It’s lightweight and requires low maintenance. Its downside is it’s flammable and can easily crack, especially in regions experiencing fast temperature changes. PVC sliding doors can cost between $300 to $1500