Patio Door Repair and Installation

It takes an experienced service professional between four and six hours to install a new patio door, depending on factors like the type of door, the condition of the existing frame, and any additional work like adjusting the opening or replacing trim. If you’re doing it yourself, it may take longer, especially if it’s your first time or if unexpected issues arise, such as an uneven frame or damaged walls. Planning for a full day can help ensure you have enough time to handle the installation and any surprises that come up.

A patio door typically lasts around 20 to 30 years, but it really depends on the quality of the materials, how well you take care of it, and the weather in your area. Vinyl and fiberglass doors usually hold up longer, while wooden ones might need more attention to avoid things like warping or rot, which can shorten their life.

Doing some basic upkeep like cleaning, lubricating the tracks, and checking the seals can help it last longer. But if you start noticing drafts, the door is hard to open or close, or it’s just looking worn out, it might be time to think about replacing it.

Before you install patio doors, consider your options. French doors are a good alternative to sliding glass doors. They offer a more elegant and classic look and allow for a wider opening. French doors also provide better insulation compared to sliding glass doors, as they typically have a tighter seal.

Bifold doors are becoming a popular choice, especially for larger spaces, as they allow for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas, folding away neatly to maximize the opening. Both options provide more design flexibility and can be more energy-efficient than standard sliding glass doors.

A sliding door and a patio door are often talked about as if they’re the same thing, but there’s a bit of a difference. A sliding door is exactly what it sounds like: a door that slides open on a track, usually made of big glass panels that give you a nice view of the outdoors.

A patio door is more of a catch-all term for any door that leads out to a patio. It could be a sliding door, a French door, or even a bifold door. While every sliding door could be called a patio door, not all patio doors are sliding. The big difference is that “sliding door” describes how it works, while “patio door” just refers to where it’s located.