PSA: Patio Door Replacement Jobs Open Up Options

If getting a call for a quote to just replace a patio door seems like a fairly limited project, it may turn out otherwise. One contractor shared a story about a customer who called asking only for that, but ended up contracting for a six-figure remodeling job. The contractor in question replaced all the windows in the home, as well as three doors, installed foam insulation and new siding, and did some painting as well. There may even be more to come, he says.

This isn’t a particularly unusual situation. About half the time, contractors end up with a more expansive project than the customer originally inquired about. That’s because quality materials and workmanship can get a homeowner thinking bigger. Once customers see the wide range of styles and pricing tiers offered by a top-tier company like Andersen Windows & Doors, they’re able to imagine what a difference a whole new design aesthetic can make.

Replace Patio Doors With Substance and Style

Patio doors aren’t a one-size-fits-all product any more. They’re available in various finishes, styles and sizes, boasting interesting features that allow customers to choose a door that best fits their space, lifestyle and the architecture of their homes. These include:

Large openings. Homeowners looking to maximize their views of the outdoors may want a larger-than-average door. Andersen’s premium A-Series, for example, includes doors up to 10 feet tall, which provide an expansive view and optimized natural lighting. Customers looking for a sleek, contemporary look will probably gravitate to this style of patio door with its minimized bottom rail and narrow frame, which provides even sightlines all around. This results in a modern, understated appearance. 

Traditional styling. For those interested in a classic look, suggest a French-style door with a higher bottom rail, and either gliding or hinged openings. Hinged doors can be configured to open inwards or outwards, depending on customer preference. Andersen’s A-series and its mid-price 400 Series are available as French doors. 

Sustainability and weather resistance. Many homeowners are environmentally conscious and seek a high degree of energy efficiency. Patio doors should offer glass options that can be matched to the homeowner’s climate and budget. For example, homes in warm climates with lots of sunlight need glass engineered to keep the heat of the sun out. Patio doors in colder climates should offer glass that leverages solar energy to help heat the home. And for customers in coastal areas, consider a hurricane-resistant option like Andersen’s Stormwatch® that provides protection against severe weather conditions.

Good construction and durability. Vinyl-clad wood is a popular option, one that’s exceptionally durable and offers homeowners easy maintenance. A wood door with a vinyl exterior resists water and seals out the elements, making it easy to wipe clean and protecting it from weathering.

Cost considerations. A patio door manufacturer should offer a range of pricing options for patio doors — without sacrificing quality or choice. For example, Andersen's 200 Series offering provides an affordable patio door with several choices of style: hinged, Narroline® gliding, and Perma-Shield® gliding. Whether the homeowner wants the door to open in or out, or slide to the left or the right, design options should not be limited for the value conscious. 

Pre-visualization. Offering a variety of finishes, widths and panel configurations makes finding the perfect patio door possible. Augmented reality views for mobile devices, like those offered on the Andersen website, enable contractors and homeowners the ability to consider the wide array of choices available, visualize these options and thus make an informed choice of product.

Unassembled doors. One option that can make a project simpler is with unassembled, knock-down doors. These are easier to install with fewer people than pre-assembled patio doors, and are more maneuverable in tight spaces or when needing to be moved up or down stairs. In addition, an unassembled door is usually available more quickly than its assembled counterpart. All of Andersen’s patio door lines are available either assembled or unassembled.

Happy Customers Are Repeat Customers

If a customer ends up happy with their new patio door — is satisfied with its performance and appearance — they’re more likely to come back for more remodeling work. The previously mentioned contractor’s business is dominated by repeat customers who appreciated the beauty, quality and construction of their new doors. Andersen’s extensive patio lines can open the door, both literally and figuratively, to more remodeling work and positive word-of-mouth recommendations within the community.

For more information, visit andersenwindows.com.