Sliding glass doors are a popular choice for homeowners, as they enhance natural light and create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. They also increase home value and are a desirable feature for buyers. However, it is important to understand their lifespan, security, and maintenance needs before choosing them.
Cost
The average cost of a new sliding glass door is $2,629. This upgrade can improve your home’s appearance, maximize natural light, and create a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor space. In addition, a new patio door can increase your home’s value and save energy.
The price of a sliding glass door can vary depending on its style and frame material. Specialty doors, such as automatic or hurricane-proof, may be more expensive. However, they can also add convenience and enhance your home’s security. You should also consider the costs of installation, hardware, and upkeep.
The estimate for a new exterior door includes labor for fitting a mid-grade prehung door into a standard rough opening, plus weatherstripping and basic hardware. It excludes sidelights, wood doors, oversized doors, and locksmith services. It also does not include window treatments or energy-efficient upgrades. If you are considering replacing your existing sliding glass door, consider the following tips to make sure it is worth the investment.
Lifespan
Sliding glass doors are a stylish and practical feature that upgrade the aesthetics of your home. However, like all other home fixtures, they can wear out over time. Identifying signs of wear and tear early and taking the necessary steps to repair them can help extend their lifespan. Common indicators include difficulty sliding the door and visible damage to the frame. Squeaky or grinding noises while moving the door can also indicate that the roller wheels or tracks need replacing. Sliding doors that do not shut or lock properly are also a security risk.
On average, sliding glass doors have a lifespan of 15 to 30 years. But their longevity depends on many factors, such as weather conditions and usage patterns. High-quality doors made of stronger materials can last even longer. Regular cleaning and maintenance, such as vacuuming the tracks to remove debris and applying lubricants to the rollers and track, can help keep them in good condition.
Security
Sliding glass doors add natural lighting and easy access to outdoor spaces, but they can be vulnerable to burglars. The large glass panels and sliding mechanism make them attractive targets for break-ins, but you can turn these potential weaknesses into a fortified barrier with the right security measures.
Adding a second lock to your sliding door creates an extra layer of security, making it harder for intruders to force open the door or open it from the inside. Alternatively, you can install security bars, which fit into the track and physically prevent the door from opening.
A broken glass detector can alert you to a forced entry through your sliding glass doors by sounding an alarm or sending a phone notification. These sensors can also be used with smart locks to integrate with your home security system.
Maintaining a layered defense against burglars helps to protect your home and family. Regularly check your sliding glass doors and the tracks to ensure that they’re in good condition.
Maintenance
Sliding glass doors offer a sleek and stylish gateway to your outdoor spaces. Moreover, they allow natural light to flood your living space and enhance its aesthetics. But, like any other home feature, they require routine care and maintenance to function efficiently.
Sliding door cleaning should be conducted regularly to remove dirt and grime. This can be done using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, soft cloths, and mild detergent or glass cleaner. You should also lubricate the tracks and rollers to reduce friction. Moreover, you should inspect the glass for cracks or damage. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent them from causing further damage and compromising security.
Certain repair and maintenance tasks are best left to professional technicians. For instance, a cracked glass pane poses a safety hazard and can compromise the insulation of your home. Furthermore, disassembly of the door may involve specific steps that need to be followed correctly to avoid voiding its warranty.