How much does patio door glass replacement cost?
How much does patio door glass replacement cost?
$300 – $1,200 average cost per panel installed
Average patio door glass replacement cost
Patio door glass replacement costs $300 to $1,200 per panel on average with installation. The cost of patio door replacement glass depends on the glass type, dimensions, features, and complexity of the installation. Standard-sized patio door glass inserts and panels cost less than panes or panels that require custom cutting.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Replacement glass | $200 – $750+ |
| Replacement labor | $100 – $450 |
| Average total cost | $300 – $1,200+ |
Patio door replacement glass cost factors
Several factors influence the final cost of glass replacement:
Door style: The type of patio door plays a significant role in determining replacement costs. In most cases, the cost to replace glass in sliding patio doors is much higher than replacing a smaller glass insert of a single swinging patio door.
Door age & condition: Older patio doors may require additional work or custom glass, which increases costs. If the patio door is more than 10 years old or worn out, replacing the whole door may be the best option.
Size & dimensions: The price for replacement glass increases with the size, and panels with non-standard sizing cost more than average. Larger panels are also heavier and may be more difficult to install, increasing the labor cost.
Thickness: Thicker glass costs more but is stronger and safer. Patio door glass is typically ¼" to ½" thick.
Delivery: Some glass companies include delivery in the glass price, while others charge an extra $100 or more.
Glass type
Building codes require patio doors to have tempered or laminated glass, which often costs 15% to 40% more than non-tempered glass. Other options increase the cost further but add convenience, energy efficiency, aesthetics, or extra safety, depending on the feature.
The table below shows the average prices for some popular glass types. Smaller glass panels fall at the low end of the price range, while full sliding door panels typically cost the most. However, a small panel with multiple high-end features often costs more than a no-frills single sliding panel.
| Glass type | Average price per pane or panel (materials only) |
|---|---|
| Energy-efficient / Low-E | $200 – $750+ |
| Enclosed blinds | $200 – $1,000 |
| Stained glass cost | $300 – $3,000 |
| Hurricane proof / impact | $500 – $3,000 |
The International Building Code (IRC) requires all patio door glass to be tempered or laminated safety glass.
Glass only vs. full patio door
The total cost to replace just the patio door glass ranges from $300 to $1,200+ per panel, depending on the type and dimensions. Replacing a patio door completely costs $600 to $5,500 with installation. The most cost-effective choice depends on the existing door's condition and the size and number of panels needing replacement.
| Replacement type | Average installed cost |
|---|---|
| Glass replacement only | $300 – $1,200+ per panel |
| Total door replacement | $1,200 – $4,000 (sliding doors) $600 – $5,500 (French doors) |
If your patio door gets condensation on the outside of the glass where you can touch it, air may be flowing between the home's interior and exterior and replacing the glass alone may not fix the issue. Consider replacing the entire door or add weatherstripping, which costs $1 to $5 per linear foot.
Labor
The labor cost for patio door glass replacement averages $50 to $150 per hour, with most projects taking 1 to 3 hours to complete. The total labor cost depends on local rates, the complexity of the installation, and if any additional repairs or modifications are needed.
Some glass specialists charge a service call fee of $100 to $150 for the first hour and a lower hourly rate afterward.
Labor costs tend to be higher when replacing the entire patio door, as these jobs take 3 to 6 hours on average.
Patio door glass replacement FAQs
Is it worth replacing patio door glass?
Replacing patio door glass can be worthwhile for several reasons. Replacing old, broken, or damaged glass improves energy efficiency, aesthetics, and home security. Replacing the glass alone is also more cost-effective than full door replacement if the frame is in good condition.
How long does it take to replace patio door glass?
The time required to replace patio door glass ranges from 1 to 3 hours on average for a standard installation. However, more complex projects or custom glass installations may take longer.
Can I replace patio door glass myself?
While it's possible for skilled DIYers to replace patio door glass, hiring a professional is best due to the knowledge and expertise needed to do the job right. Glass replacement can be dangerous if not done correctly, and improper installation can lead to energy inefficiency and security risks.
Getting quotes for patio door glass replacement
Here are some guidelines to follow to ensure you get the best value for your patio door glass replacement:
Get at least three written estimates from reputable local glass companies or patio door installers near you.
Confirm they have proper licensing and insurance.
Ask for a breakdown of costs, including materials, labor, taxes, and any other fees.
Inquire about warranties on both materials and labor.
Read customer reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Ask for a list of references to contact.
Don't pay in full until the job is complete.
Questions to ask a glass contractor
To help narrow your search, consider asking the following questions when consulting with potential contractors:
How long have you been in business?
Are you licensed and insured for this type of work?
What types of glass do you recommend for my patio door?
Can you provide references from similar projects?
What warranty do you offer on materials and labor?
What is the lead time on replacement glass?
How long will the project take from start to finish?
Do you foresee any potential challenges with this project?
Do you handle any necessary permits, and is that included in the quote?
How do you handle unexpected issues or additional costs?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.