- How do double-glazed patio doors work?
- What are the benefits of double-glazed patio doors?
- How much do double-glazed patio doors cost?
- What affects the price of double-glazed patio doors?
- How are double-glazed patio doors installed?
- Can I install a double-glazed patio door myself?
- Next steps
- Summary
- Double-glazed patio doors offer superior insulation, security, and aesthetics compared to traditional doors.
- They come in various styles, including sliding and bifold, each with unique functionality and benefits.
- Installation requires precision, and while DIY is possible, hiring a professional ensures long-term performance.
Double-glazed patio doors are a stylish and energy-efficient upgrade that enhances your home’s functionality and aesthetics. Designed with two panes of glass and an insulating gas layer, they offer excellent thermal efficiency, security, and noise reduction compared to traditional single-glazed doors.
Available in various styles, including sliding and bifold, they provide flexibility in design while maximizing natural light and outdoor access. While installation requires careful planning and precision, understanding the process can help you decide whether to tackle it yourself or hire a professional.
They also cost a pretty penny to install, but doing so has plenty of benefits. But don’t let that put you off; this guide will help you navigate the process and make it as simple as possible.
If you’re already confident you have all the knowledge you need, fill in this form to get the best quote.
How do double-glazed patio doors work?
In essence, double-glazed patio doors work the same way as double-glazed windows, except they are much larger and can be used as doors. To this end, the doors are made from two pieces of glass with an insulating air or inert gas layer sandwiched in between.
The gap and panes of glass are held together with a specially designed frame and spacer between the glass to reduce the heat loss of the product further. As they are designed to replace traditional patio doors, they can be slightly different in design to windows, especially units designed to slide or fold along precision-engineering tracks.
For sliding-type double-glazed patio doors, this setup usually consists of one fixed door with one (or more) moveable ones. Other types, like bifold systems, enable the doors to concertina (or fold up) for cleaner and easier storage when open.
These kinds of doors have robust hinges to connect each door, allowing you to push all the doors to one side and split the entire setup from the middle. Both sliding and bifold patio doors run along tracks fixed to the floor and lintel of the wall opening to your house.
What are the benefits of double-glazed patio doors?
Compared to traditional patio doors, especially single-glazed wooden ones, double-glazed doors offer similar benefits to double-glazed windows.
- Improved energy efficiency
The best kind of door for energy efficiency is no door at all. But since you need to be able to get in and out of your house, that’s not an option. So, the next best thing is to have a double-glazed door.
Like double-glazed windows, the composite of two panes of glass with an insulating gas layer (and specially designed frame) makes them exceptional for keeping heat inside and the cold out. They also come, as standard, with special seals around the openings to prevent draughts.
Many higher-end units also have special glass (or glass coatings) that help reduce unwanted heat gain from the Sun during the summer.
- Greater security
Like energy efficiency, improved security is another great benefit of double-glazed patio doors. These doors are much heavier and much stronger than traditional ones.
This has the added benefit of making them much more challenging to break through or open, dramatically improving security. The glass is also far more robust than single glazing, making it considerably more difficult to break to gain entry.
The gas or air gap also acts as a kind of shock absorber, further enhancing the strength of these kinds of doors.
- Soundproofing
Due to their design nature, double-glazed patio doors’ ability to reduce outside noise is another benefit. If you live near a main road or other loud areas like a high street, airport, train track, etc, this can be a very real benefit to you.
Double-glazing has been shown to reduce noise by as much as 80% over more traditional doors and windows.
- Kiss goodbye to condensation and mould
Another great benefit is their ability to prevent condensation buildup that can lead to mold and mildew growth. Not only is this unsightly, but it can harm health and damage interiors.
To this end, double-glazed windows significantly reduce condensation by maintaining a more stable surface temperature, preventing excessive moisture accumulation.
- Easy maintenance
Yet another fantastic benefit of double-glazing is its relatively minimal maintenance.
Due to its sealed design, moisture and dust cannot easily accumulate in hard-to-reach places. The uPVC frames resist humidity, corrosion, and warping, ensuring longevity without repainting.
- They look great and add value
Lastly, another added benefit of double-glazed patio doors is that they look great and even add value to your home. More than ever, potential buyers are looking for more efficient and secure homes, so installing them really is a good investment.
Since they also provide other benefits like filtering out UV radiation, they can also act as a wear-and-tear saver, preventing premature fading of fixtures and fittings like carpets, paint, etc.
How much do double-glazed patio doors cost?
As you can appreciate, the cost of double-glazed patio doors can vary widely depending on the design’s size, quality, type, and complexity. Bifold doors, for example, would be much more expensive than a classic hinged uPVC door.
Costs will also depend on the labour needed to make and install them and your location. That said, you can expect to pay the following for different door types.
| Door Type | Size (if applicable) | Glazing Style | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Door | 1.2M x 2.1M | Fully Glazed | £950 – £1,050 |
| French Door | 1.5M x 2.1M | Fully Glazed | £1,000 – £1,100 |
| French Door | 1.8M x 2.1M | Fully Glazed | £1,075 – £1,175 |
| Front Door | Standard Roller Lock | Arched Top Light | £600 – £700 |
| Front Door | High-Security Lock | Arched Top Light | £675 – £775 |
| Front Door | Standard Roller Lock | Diamond Leads | £600 – £700 |
| Front Door | High-Security Lock | Diamond Leads | £650 – £750 |
| Bifold Door | Varies | Fully Glazed | £5,000+ (Size-dependent) |
| Patio Door | Varies | Fully Glazed | £450 – £1,800 (Size-dependent) |
What affects the price of double-glazed patio doors?
As you can appreciate, the cost of double-glazed patio doors is due to various factors. These include things like:
- Door size
One of the main drivers of price is the actual physical dimensions of the patio doors. Larger doors tend to require more material and time to make and install, which will increase the price accordingly.
- Frame material
The next factor that impacts price is the materials used to make the frame of the patio doors. uPVC is generally the cheapest, with metal or timber frames significantly increasing the price.
- Glazing type
The kind of glass used in the double-glazing aspect of the patio doors is another major pricing factor. Standard uncoated glass is the cheapest, but if you want low-emissivity (low-e) coatings, special acoustic glass, or toughened glass, this will increase the cost accordingly.
- Design
As we’ve already seen, the more complex the design of the patio doors, the higher the cost. Sliding doors are generally more budget-friendly, with bi-fold or French-door styles at the higher price range.
- Brand and quality
As you’d expect, more established, reputable brands will tend to attract higher price tags due to their perceived reputation, quality, and offered warranties.
- Custom features (if any)
If you want all-singing-all-dancing double-glazed patio doors with things like decorative features, colours, high-security features, etc., you will need to pay a premium for them.
- Installation cost
Finally, the actual product installation cost can also inflate the price. This will depend widely on your installer’s location, the job’s complexity (existing opening or conversion needed), and the installer’s workload.
How are double-glazed patio doors installed?
Installing double-glazed patio doors requires precision, proper alignment, and secure fastening to ensure durability and energy efficiency. The process follows these key steps:
- Preparation:
- Remove the old door and frame (if applicable).
- Take precise measurements of the opening for an accurate fit.
- Assess the area for any structural concerns that need fixing.
- Frame Installation:
- Position and fasten the new frame, ensuring it is straight and level.
- Secure it firmly to the surrounding structure with the appropriate hardware.
- Apply weatherproof seals to enhance insulation and prevent drafts.
- Placing the Door Unit:
- Carefully lift and insert the double-glazed door into the frame.
- Adjust and align it properly, using shims if adjustments are needed.
- Securing Components:
- Attach the door firmly to the frame with screws in designated spots.
- Fit essential hardware, including locks, rollers, and handles.
- Final Touches:
- Test the door’s movement and fine-tune the alignment if necessary.
- Adjust the closing system to ensure a snug and secure fit.
- Seal all edges to block out moisture and drafts effectively.
Can I install a double-glazed patio door myself?
As it is with many large works in your home, while it may be possible, it is not advisable.
More often than not (unless you are a professional installer or tradesman), handling a task like this is often a false economy. You can, and likely will, make mistakes, which could prove more costly to put right in the long run.
Poorly fitted doors often suffer from draughts, misalignment and sticking, and damage to the doors and frames. In the worst cases, they can compromise the structural integrity of walls and provide weak security points.
Hiring a professional to do the work on your behalf is always recommended. It is best to get several quotes to compare prices, check their qualifications, and ensure they have insurance and anything else you think is relevant.
Next steps
You should now have all the essential information needed to install double-glazed patio doors, whether you’re considering a DIY approach or hiring a professional.
From understanding the different types of doors and their benefits to cost considerations and installation steps, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision. Before you move forward, here are some key steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free installation:
- Set a Budget:
- Consider the cost of the doors, frame materials, glazing type, and additional features like security upgrades.
- Factor in installation costs if hiring a professional and any unexpected expenses.
- Balance cost with long-term benefits like energy efficiency, security, and home value.
- Check Planning Permissions:
- Some local regulations may require permission, especially if you’re altering an external wall or live in a listed building.
- Contact your local authority to confirm whether permits are needed before starting work.
- If unsure, a professional installer can often guide compliance.
- Find a Trusted Installer:
- Hiring a qualified professional ensures the doors are fitted correctly and perform efficiently.
- Get multiple quotes, check qualifications, and read customer reviews before choosing an installer.
Fill in our form to find a reputable installer in your area and get the best deal.
Summary
- Investing in double-glazed patio doors improves energy efficiency, enhances security, and reduces noise.
- Costs vary based on door size, materials, glazing type, and installation complexity.
- Proper installation is crucial to avoid issues like drafts, misalignment, or security weaknesses.
- Checking planning permissions and choosing the right installer are essential steps before starting.
- Whether upgrading for comfort or adding value to your home, double-glazed patio doors are a wise long-term investment.
