Written by

Sarah Noel

September 18, 2024

Fact-checked by

Tom Grupa

Cost to replace sliding glass doors

The average cost to replace sliding glass doors is $700 to $2,400. New sliding glass doors cost $400 to $1,800 on average for materials, depending on the size, number of panels, glass type, material, brand, and features. The labor cost to install sliding doors is $300 to $600.

Large multi-panel sliding doors with triple or double-pane hurricane-proof glass cost $1,000 to $4,000.

Costs increase for:

• Top brand name doors

• Custom sizes

• Adding screens, shutters, or blinds

• Glass tinting

• Sidelights

• Automatic opening systems

Sliding door cost by size

• New sliding doors are energy-efficient and insulated, which lowers energy bills.

• Glass doors replace walls, provide natural light, and give better outdoor views.

• A variety of design options, colors, styles, sizes, and customizations are available.

• Takes 4 to 6 hours to install.

Sliding glass door prices

• A basic sliding door costs $300 to $800 for 6' plain glass in an aluminum or vinyl frame.

• New mid-range sliding glass door prices are $800 to $2,000 for energy-efficient double-pane glass.

• Andersen, Pella, and Marvin, sliding door prices are $1,500 to $5,000.

Sliding patio doors are either right-handed or left-handed models. If the door handle is on the left side, this is a right-handed door.

Multi-panel sliding glass door prices

Multi-panel sliding glass doors cost $600 to $7,000, depending on the number of panels. A 3-panel sliding glass door costs $1,000 to $5,000, while a 4-panel sliding patio door costs up to $7,000 on average. Typically, one panel stays fixed in place, but some models allow all panels to move.

Sliding door prices by material

The most common materials for sliding glass door frames are solid wood, vinyl or aluminum-clad wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl. Both aluminum and vinyl are the most affordable types, while fiberglass tends to be the most expensive and long-lasting.

Sliding doors prices by glass type

Dual-pane sliding doors cost $450 to $2,100 on average, while hurricane-proof sliding glass doors run $1,000 to $7,000. Sliding doors come with various types of glass, such as double-pane, tempered, sound and hurricane-proof, and Low-E coated glass filled with argon gas.

Soundproof sliding glass doors cost

Soundproof sliding doors cost $1,200 to $4,000 on average, which blocks 75% to 95% of noise. Soundproofing doors work by using double or triple-pane, laminated glass. Soundproofing glass doors also provide better insulation, which lowers energy bills.

A cheaper option is to hang soundproofing curtains. Thick soundproofing curtains cost $200 to $300 on average or $30 to $40 per square yard.

Hurricane-proof sliding glass doors prices

Hurricane-proof sliding glass doors cost $1,000 to $3,000 on average, with larger 3-panel models costing up to $7,000. Hurricane impact sliding glass doors are double-pane tempered glass with a special film to prevent shattering. These doors also reduce the risk of break-ins.

A cheaper but less-effective option is applying a hurricane-plastic film to existing sliding glass doors. This unique material costs $4.25 per square foot or between $7 and $18 per square foot installed. Commercial-grade, high-impact sheet glazing costs $20 to $30 per square foot installed.

Double- & triple-pane sliding glass door prices

The average double-pane sliding glass door costs $450 to $2,100, while triple-glazed patio doors cost $2,000 to $6,000 on average. Multi-paned glass doors provide insulation, are up to 80% more energy-efficient, and block outside noise better than single-pane.

Glass features:

• Grids – Grids are thin wooden strips mounted on the outside of the glass (or inside dual-panes) that come in various patterns. Grids give the doors a classic look and style and can be applied during or after building.

• Low-E - Low Emissivity coatings reflect heat energy from the inside of your house to increase energy efficiency.

• Argon-filled Glass – Argon is a non-toxic, clear gas filled between double or triple-pane glass, which creates an insulated space that prevents heat or cooled air from escaping the house.

• Tempered Glass – Tempered treated or “safety glass,” has improved strength, and shatters into many small round fragments to prevent injury when it breaks.

• Energy Star Certification – Choosing an ENERGY STAR qualified sliding glass door lowers energy bills by up to 12 percent.

Sliding doors cost by manufacturer

The best sliding patio door brands are Andersen, Pella, Marvin, and PGT, which typically provide more options and customization. However, they cost more than other manufacturers.

Andersen sliding door Prices

Andersen sliding patio doors cost $800 to $3,500, depending on the size, model, options, material, and glass type. The Andersen 400 Series Frenchwood patio door costs $1,500 to $3,500, which includes Low-E SmartSun Glass. Andersen provides a transferable 20-year warranty on glass and components.

Pella sliding doors prices

Pella sliding doors cost $750 to $2,400 on average, depending on the size, style, options, frame material, and type of glass. ThermaStar by Pella sliding doors cost between $350 to $1,400. Pella provides a transferable limited 10 to 20-year warranty on glass and 10-years on non-glass materials.

• Pella sliding doors are Energy Star rated and come in in wood, vinyl, and fiberglass in a variety of colors, grille patterns, hardware options, glass, and screens.

• The Pella Insynctive® system sends in-app notifications when doors are open or closed, as well as locked or unlocked.

Marvin sliding glass doors cost

Marvin sliding patio doors cost $2,800 to $3,900 or more, depending on the size, number of panels, configuration, and series. Marvin’s limited warranty is 20 years for glass up to 60 square feet, 10 years for larger doors or non-glass materials, and 5 years for interior-finish defects.

Marvin sliding glass doors are available in two, three, or four-panel configurations and come in 3 different series: Signature, Elevate, and Essential.

PGT sliding glass doors prices

PGT sliding glass doors cost $2,000 to $3,300 for sizes between 71"x78" and 70"x94", and up to $9,700 for doors 144"x80". PGT sliding doors are Energy Star rated with a 10 to 25-year warranty for the glass, and 3 years to a lifetime warranty for the frame and hardware.

• PGT sliding door panels are 4x8 feet, with custom configurations up to 8 panels in both aluminum and vinyl frames.

• Optional upgrades include insulating glass, privacy glass, impact-resistant glass, and Low-E or Argon glass.

Milgard sliding door prices

Milgard sliding glass doors cost $1,000 to $3,500 or more for either vinyl or aluminum doors of two, three or four panels with sizes ranging from 57"x77" to 192"x82".

• Milgard offers six different series, with choices in hardware, colors, framing materials, glass, grids, and screens.

• Milgard provides a full lifetime warranty to the original owner, and 10 years for new owners.

Masterpiece sliding door prices

Masterpiece sliding glass doors cost $750 to $1,900. Masterpiece doors are fiberglass and come in standard sizes only. Masterpiece provides a 10-year warranty on decorative glass and 20-year on clear glass. Masterpiece sliding doors are an Energy Star partner with six times more energy-efficiency than wooden doors.

Large oversized sliding glass doors cost

Large sliding glass doors cost $4,000 to $7,000 for between 8 to 12 feet wide. Custom, oversized sliding doors to cost $900 to $1,200 per linear foot and a minimum of $100 per linear foot for installation. Individual door panels are available up to 6 feet wide and 11 feet high.

Sliding glass wall cost

A sliding glass wall system costs $5,000 to $20,000 to install or between $900 and $1,500 per linear foot on average. This modern telescoping glass door is up to 50' wide by 10' tall with stacking or sliding doors. Some styles are frameless without tracks, and each panel is up to 60 inches wide.

• Stacking doors feature multiple sliding panels that stack together as they slide off to the side. Each panel has its own track.

• The pocketing system allows the panels to slide inside the wall to create the widest unobstructed door opening. They usually have a minimum of 3 sections.

Folding glass doors cost

Accordion, folding glass, or bifold doors cost $4,000 to $20,000 total or between $500 and $1,400 per linear foot to install. Folding glass wall prices depend on the size, material, level of customization, and labor. Installation labor costs alone are $600 to $2,500.

• Bifold glass doors come in sizes up to 10' high and 48' wide, which fold together like an accordion when they are opened.

• Folding glass doors can replace large walls, provide natural light, and create stunning views to the outdoors.

Cost of sliding door vs. French door

French patio doors cost $700 to $1,800 to install, while sliding glass doors cost $800 to $2,400 on average. Prices vary depending on the size, brand, features, and material.

• Sliding doors require less space since they only move sideways. These doors are more energy-efficient than French doors, but require more maintenance due to the wear and tear on their sliding track.

• French doors are large, double patio doors that open up to the outside and take up more space. Also, the design tends to prevent theft more than sliding doors.

Cost to install sliding glass doors

A sliding glass door installation costs $800 to $3,500 on average, depending on if you're replacing an existing sliding door, retrofitting an exterior door opening, or installing a new door into a solid wall.

In addition to the base replacement cost, additional charges apply for structural modifications, old door removal, and framing a new opening when not installing a pre-hung sliding door.

Cost to install sliding glass door into wall

The average cost to install a sliding glass door into a wall is $1,400 to $3,500, which includes permits, a structural engineer’s plans, cutting an opening into the wall, framing, and installing a new sliding door. Additional charges up to $1,200 apply for rerouting plumbing and electrical.

Old patio door removal cost

The average cost for removing a sliding glass patio door is $95 to $250 in labor and disposal costs, depending on the size. If the wooden frame is rotting and needs replacing, rebuilding the frame costs $100 to $240.

Repairing small sections of rotten wood with special wood fillers like epoxy and putty costs $15 to $45.

Cost to install sliding patio door upgrades

Upgrades available for sliding glass doors include automatic sliding doors, built-in blinds, shutters, pet panels, tinting, sidelights, and transom windows.

Automatic glass sliding doors prices

Automatic glass sliding door systems cost $400 to $1,300 for DIY kits to install on existing sliding doors. Commercial automatic sliding glass doors cost $5,000 to $7,000 or more for the glass doors, plus motion sensors for hands-free opening.

• Pet-friendly kits work by putting a unique tag on your pet’s collar to activate the door opening, or having a connected doormat that opens the door once stepped on.

• Universal smart sliding door openers with motion-detecting lets you control the door opening through an app with the assistance of a hidden security camera.

Sliding screen doors prices

Exterior screen doors cost $130 to $550 on average for materials and professional installation. Although both retractable and sliding screen doors keep insects out while letting fresh air in, retractable screens take up the least space and stay cleaner.

• A retractable screen door winds up automatically around a roller, and springs out of sight when you click the door handle open.

• A sliding screen door is an additional door panel that covers the sliding glass doors and remains exposed to the elements.

Installing shutters and blinds

Adding basic vertical blinds to sliding glass doors costs $20 to $150 on average. Plantation shutters cost $150 to $800 per pair of 2 shutters with installation. Prices vary depending on quality, size, and type.

Patio doors with built-in blinds cost

Sliding glass doors with built-in blinds cost $800 to $2,500 on average, not including installation. Since they contain blinds sealed in between the interior and exterior glass panes, they have the following unique benefits:

• Never need cleaning

• Reduce the accumulation of allergens

• Safer for children and pets

• Can’t be damaged accidentally

Sliding door locks & security

Changing a basic sliding door lock costs $10 for the parts, but offers low security. Upgrading to high-security locks costs $40 to $200 for a foot lock, deadbolts that install at floor-level, or telescoping security bars.

Cost to install pet panel

A pet patio door panel for sliding doors costs $130 to $400 on average, and installing doesn't require modifying the door opening. A tall glass panel with a built-in pet door at the bottom easily slides into the existing door frame to give your pets easy access in and out.

Cost to tint sliding glass doors

The average cost to tint sliding glass door windows is $6 to $15 per square foot. Tinting glass doors reduces glare, increases privacy, reduces energy costs, adds a decorative shatterproof design, and blocks harmful UV rays.

Window tinting should be performed by an experienced professional. Incompatible tinting films or improper installation can void your warranty.

Sidelights and transoms

Adding sidelights to a sliding glass door costs $400 to $2,000+ more on average. Installing a transom window adds $300 to $900. Prices depend on the window size, design, type of decorative glass and patterns, quality of the frame, and kind of glass such as low-E or argon-filled.

• Transom windows go above the door so that they’re high up enough to allow privacy without blocking out the natural outdoor light.

• Sidelights are narrow windows that go on the right and left sides of the door to increase the light that can enter your home.

Sliding glass door repair costs

Minor sliding glass doors repairs such as changing locks cost $70 to $170, while larger repairs such as door frame replacement costs $130 to $380. 

Replacement glass for sliding door costs $250 to $600 per panel, which can be more expensive than buying a new door.

Potential hidden repair costs

When replacing a sliding door, hidden damages and repairs often need to be taken care of after removing the existing door.

Sliding glass door maintenance

Ongoing maintenance is required to keep your patio door opening, closing, and locking airtight.

• Squeaky Sound – Spray a little oil or WD40 on the wheels if you hear a squeaking sound when sliding the patio door. If the wheels have cracks, they may need replacement. Tighten any loose screws with a screwdriver.

• Bent Track – If the sliding track bends inward, use pliers to bend and straighten the track back. For outward bends, place a block of wood against the outside of the bend and hammer the track back into place.

• Leaks or Air Draft – If the door system leaks or becomes drafty, check the weather stripping and replace any damaged sections.

• Slide Difficulty – Dirt trapped inside the tracks makes it difficult to slide the door. Use a vacuum with a thin crevice attachment, an old toothbrush, and a wire brush to get debris out. Afterward, clean the tracks with a wet paper towel. Otherwise, repair the door frame by removing the panels and realigning the door in the tracks.

• Stuck Doors – Sometimes the rollers in the door wear down so that the door frame starts rubbing against the track. If you turn the adjusting screw at the bottom of the door end, it will adjust the height of the rollers to stop the door from rubbing against the track.

Sliding glass doors FAQs

Who installs sliding glass doors?

Professional door installers, carpenters, and general contractors are experienced in installing sliding glass doors. Typically, a 2-person crew with one general contractor and one carpenter can get the job done in a few hours for an average cost of $300 to $800 in labor.

Do sliding doors come with a warranty?

Many sliding door companies offer a 10-year warranty for the non-glass parts and a 20-year warranty for the glass. Warranty coverage depends on the company, materials, and products selected. Most don’t cover regular wear and tear or misuse.

Tip: The same installation company often performs any repairs needed.

When should I replace my existing patio or sliding door?

Patio and sliding doors should be replaced if:

• The door is old and doesn't insulate well

• The door leaks when it rains

• The door sticks when opening

• The door glass is cracked or shattered

Newer sliding doors have more durable glass, better seals and locks, and are more energy-efficient. Plus, new doors often increase the home’s value and appeal to buyers.

How wide is a sliding glass door?

• A standard sliding glass door is 60 to 72 inches wide by 80 inches tall.

• Larger or custom doors go up to 12 feet wide, sliding glass-wall systems can be 50 feet wide by 10 feet tall. Sliding patio doors accommodate tight-fitted spaces, while hinged doors open inward or outward.

How much does it cost to replace sliding door w/ solid wall?

The cost to replace a sliding glass door with a solid wall is $500 to $2,000, depending on the door size. Work consists of reframing the hole, installing new drywall, and finishing costs.

DIY sliding door replacement cost

The cost to replace a sliding glass door yourself is $800 to $1,800, including the door, delivery charges, and tools. Delivery costs $70 to $80, and tools and supplies cost $135 to $340.

Replacing a sliding door takes half a day and requires two people since doors are heavy and difficult to position.

How to install sliding glass door

Here are the steps to install a sliding glass door by yourself:

Step 1 - Measure and pick the right sliding door.

• Remove any casing trim and measure the rough size of the opening—not the door—from inside the home to get accurate measurements.

• Measure the length between the framing wall studs. Then measure the height between the floor and wooden header at the top. For best results, take three measurements for each (center, right, and left side).

• Buying doors a little smaller than the opening works, but a larger door never works. Manufacturers tend to make doors 5 inches smaller than advertised to make sure it fits inside the frame.

Step 2 - Remove the old door.

• Remove curtains, blinds, screens, and put a tarp on the floor to collect debris.

• Unscrew the roller adjustment screws at the bottom of the door, and the head stop screws at the top of the door. Lift the door out of the frame and remove it.

• Remove the exterior trim, stationary panel, jamb, and then use a crowbar to pry the old frame out.

Step 3 - Prepare the opening.

• Make sure the new door fits.

• Clean and caulk the sides of the frame to seal them nicely.

Step 4 - Position and secure the new sliding door.

• Lift the new door in place and add shims around the sides to align it properly.

• Have someone hold the door as you secure it in place with screws.

• Hammer the shims into the framing.

• Use screws to secure the threshold to the door.

Step 5 - Add finishing touches.

• Seal the edges with expanding insulation foam to create an airtight seal.

• Reattach the casing trim.

• Insert the screen door.

• Install the locks and handles.

• Clean the debris.

Hiring a sliding glass door installer

Installing a sliding door is difficult to do yourself and requires the help of a professional door installer. Exterior doors need to be well insulated from the weather and provide proper security.

• Get at least three estimates, and be skeptical of low bids.

• Ask for recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors.

• Read reviews and check out their previous work on HomeGuide and Google.

• Verify their licensing and insurance are up to date.

• Ask for a full itemized contract in writing in case of a dispute.

• Never pay cash and figure out a reasonable payment plan upfront.

Questions to ask pros

1. Are you bonded, licensed, and insured?

2. How many years have you been installing doors?

3. Will you provide references from recent customers?

4. How long is your warranty? What damage does it cover exactly?

5. How much of a down payment is required?

6. Will you be using subcontractors?

7. When can you start and finish?