The Step-by-Step Patio Door Replacement Process

While the process of replacing a patio door may seem daunting at first, taking it step-by-step makes the project realistic and attainable. From start to finish, follow this guide to the replacement patio door process.

The right patio door can help complete your space. Whether you’re thinking about replacing a sliding glass door or making a bigger statement with a multi-slide or bifold patio door, investing in a new patio door can help boost the value of your home and make your home more comfortable. It can also help improve energy efficiency and cut utility costs.

As you start the process, it’s important that you take time to gather inspiration. Explore Pinterest and Instagram for design ideas that match your style. You can also view photos from real-life Pella customers when you browse patio door inspiration by color, style or room. Patio door before and after pictures are another easy way to get inspired before beginning your own project. Regardless of where you choose to look, collecting design ideas is best practice for anyone about to replace a patio door.

In addition to getting a feel for your design tastes, setting a budget is an essential first step. Patio door replacement is an investment in which you’ll have to make many decisions. From the material, size and type of patio door to the features and options available, determining a budget will help you realize what is most valuable to you.

To narrow down the right patio door option for you, think about both the aesthetic you wish to achieve and the needs of your lifestyle. Pella offers patio doors in three different material types. Wood patio doors create a natural look and offer the most customizability. Our fiberglass is the strongest patio door material.⁹ Vinyl patio doors are low maintenance and budget friendly.

Selecting the type of patio door that functions best for your home is a crucial part of the process. There are various types to choose from including sliding, French, bifold and multi-slide. If you’re not sure which type will fit best in your home, a local Pella expert can help you.

You’ll also want to consider the various features and options available to customize your patio door. You can choose different stains and finishes, upgrade your hardware or give your patio door some character with between-the-glass grilles.

There are several places to buy a Pella patio door. You can schedule a free consultation to work directly with a Pella expert, you can do it yourself by shopping online or you can purchase through a Lowe’s store near you. Regardless of where you choose to buy, you’ll get a patio door built to fit your needs.

After you have received your replacement patio door, installation is the next step in the process. There are several different patio door installation options to choose from. The type of patio door you choose will determine the method that works best for you. If you’re replacing a current patio door with a similar model, pocket installation is most likely the best option. Choosing a completely new type or size of patio door can make installation a little more complex, so a full-frame installation will be necessary.

Your options for installers include a Pella installer, a private contractor, working with your local home improvement store — such as Lowe’s — or tackling the project on your own. If you need some guidance, a Pella expert can work with you to determine which installation method and option are best for your patio door replacement project.

Be sure you understand all the warranty and service information regarding your replacement patio door. If your local Pella showroom takes care of installation for you, you’re able to take advantage of the Pella Care Guarantee. However, if your patio door is installed by someone else, you will need to understand how that may impact your warranty. Lastly, make sure you understand how to operate and care for your new patio door — including cleaning. Taking care of your new investment will help it last and continue to add value to your home.

Purchasing a patio door isn’t something homeowners do every day, and we understand that this is a big decision for you and your home. Understanding the full step-by-step process will help you make a decision you feel confident about.