A Guide To Patio Door Replacement

South Florida residents love their patios and there’s something relaxing about opening your patio door and stepping out into your backyard oasis. But if your patio door creaks, is hard to open, or looks worn, it might be time for a patio door replacement. Before you make any decisions, explore this ultimate guide for replacing your patio doors. We’ll share signs your doors need to be replaced, various styles to consider, along with benefits. There’s more to choosing a replacement patio door than you might think!

Recognizing Signs Your Patio Doors Need Replacement

You might be thinking about replacing your patio doors with impact ones, or simply as a matter of aesthetics because you want a different door look or style. However, patio doors do lose their efficiency over time with natural wear and tear. If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s likely time to replace your patio doors out of necessity.

Drafts and air leaks

Over time, your patio doors’ seals can deteriorate, leaving small gaps throughout the frame. The result is air leaks, causing drafts of outside air coming in, along with indoor air flowing outward. Drafty patio doors can significantly compromise energy efficiency and should be replaced.

Hard to open or close

If your patio doors are hard to open and close, it’s time to consider replacement. Jamming doors might be signs of hardware or track alignment issues that will only worsen over time and with further use. And if your door is hard to open now, there is a possibility it will become stuck altogether soon.

Condensation between the glass

It’s not uncommon for homeowners to notice condensation collecting between the glass panes of patio doors. It’s an indication that the door’s seals are failing, allowing moisture to penetrate.

Failing locks and hardware

Over time, the locking mechanisms and hardware on patio doors often fail. This presents potential safety vulnerabilities. Replacing a lock or handle might help temporarily, however, if these components are failing, it’s a fair assumption that other materials are also compromised.

Noise penetration

If the neighbor’s lawn mower is disturbing your Sunday morning sleep, your patio doors are not doing a good job of insulating noise. Today’s modern patio door designs feature better soundproofing performance. Consider replacing your patio doors for improved tranquility and noise reduction.

Patio Door Styles to Consider

In South Florida, residents contend with harsh oceanfront weather conditions. When replacing your patio doors, consider styles that are impact-resistant and designed to withstand intense wind gusts and hurricane-related weather.

Impact French Doors

Imagine grabbing your morning coffee and swinging open two beautiful French doors to reveal your stunning patio area. French doors are wildly popular because of their upscale touches and luxury-like vibes. But before you decide, consider the improved durability of impact French doors, which are available in a variety of styles to fit standard doorways or custom frames.

• Double or single French doors
• Full or narrow frame sidelites
• Concealed two-point locking systems
• Available colonial grids
• Screen-free designs
• Available privacy glass

Impact Sliding Doors

Another patio door replacement option to consider is the impact sliding door. Based on the design of your home and doorway, the sliding door design might be the most appealing. Homeowners appreciate sliding doors because they don’t occupy space in the room to open, freeing up space. They’re also popular for their sleek appearance, with hidden assembly mechanisms. Consider the various sliding door styles available and choose what makes the most sense for your space.

• Available with or without screens
• By-pass or pocket styles
• Colonial grids available
• Panels come in 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8
• Operable or fixed panels
• Available key locks and secondary locks

Benefits of Replacing Your Patio Doors

There are many benefits to consider that support replacing your patio doors:

• Improved energy efficiency: With new patio doors, you can enjoy modern seals and energy-efficient properties to save money on utility bills.
• Enhanced security: New patio doors mean new locking mechanisms and impact glass for improved security.
• Aesthetic appeal: Trade out those outdated patio doors for new, sleek door designs for more aesthetic appeal in your home.
• Noise reduction: Bring peace to your space with new patio doors that feature better insulation and noise reduction benefits.
• Better insulation: Keep your home more comfortable with patio doors that insulate indoor air better than drafty, aging doors.
• Increase in natural light: Introduce more natural light into your living space with brilliant patio door designs featuring impact glass that allows the sun to shine through.
• Easier to operate: Stop struggling with old doors and jamming tracks with new patio doors that are easy to use.
• Improve property value: According to Remodeling Magazine, exterior home improvements, including patio doors, yield a nearly 70% return on investment.

FAQs About Patio Door Replacement

How long will my new patio doors last?

With proper maintenance, your new patio doors could realistically last between 20 and 30 years.

How long does it take to replace patio doors?

Depending on your home’s unique doorway, the patio door installation process could take three to four hours in total.

Do new patio doors offer warranty coverage?

Some patio door manufacturers offer warranty coverage, as do expert installers, like STS Impact Windows, Doors & Roofing, with a five-year installation warranty.

Trust STS Impact Windows, Doors & Roofing in South Florida

When you’re ready to explore your patio door replacement options, trust the team who knows windows and doors better than anyone! STS Impact Windows, Doors & Roofing in South Florida can guide you through all your patio replacement door options. We’ve been replacing doors and windows for more than 25 years, and we’re licensed distributors for some of the best brands on the market today.

​​​​​​Call 561-600-1018 and speak with our patio door experts and get a free quote!