Pro remodelers take us inside their patio door replacement project

Morgan has lots of experience counseling clients through the decisions involved in a remodel. To make good decisions, she advises starting with a large-scale plan that’s made to match both your aesthetic and your lifestyle. "Doors and windows are features you’re going to have for a very long time,” she said, which is why it’s so important to pick the ones that match your long-term vision.

Here's how the Molitors did that when picking out their new patio door:

• A gliding opening: Not wanting to give up “valuable real estate” on their deck was only part of the reason the Molitors opted for a gliding opening. Since they use the door all year round, they were also thinking about energy efficiency. The glide allows them to dash back and forth without opening the door completely, so it’s easier to keep warm air in during the winter and cooled air in during the summer.
• Contemporary panel style: The clean lines and narrow frame made this an easy decision. Its contemporary look fits in with the rest of the updates they've made throughout the home. And the wide expanse of glass lets in lots of natural light and puts the focus on the view of their newly finished outdoor space.
• Black frame color: The color choice was easy for the Molitors who “loves bold statements” and had already painted all the rest of the window and door trim black. In addition, the color matches a second set of doors that are also visible when viewing the home from the exterior, so it just made sense inside and out.
• Hardware: Black flush hardware was chosen to blend in with the door frame. Built into the door panel with a subtle depression that makes it easy to slide the door open and shut, the hardware doesn’t interrupt the door's sleek profile and perfectly complements their contemporary style.
• Auxiliary foot lock: Although the door the Molitors chose has a multi-point locking system — two hook bolts above the deadbolt adding weathertightness and enhanced security — they also opted to add an auxiliary foot lock for extra security and air flow. (The lock can be set when the door is open for secure venting.)

Preparing to take on a door replacement project? Here are a few takeaways from Molitor’s experience:

1. Consider how often you use the door: Knowing they would use their door every day of the year helped the Molitors settle on a gliding opening so they can slip in and out without necessarily opening the door fully each time. It also helped them decide on the right product line. They went with the A-Series. As our best performing and most energy-efficient product line, their new patio door can seal out Minnesota’s notoriously harsh weather and keep their home comfortable in all seasons while also saving them money on utility bills.
   
   
2. Keep the big-picture plan in mind: Knowing how they want their space to look, even if it will take years to get there, helped them make decisions about color, panel style, and hardware. The Molitors are remodeling their home room by room with the intention of making the home their own and showcasing their “eclectic” style. They know windows and doors are large investments that last many years, so they wanted to make sure they chose a door they would love when their house remodel is complete.
   
   
3. Hire a pro installer: Jamie is a general contractor, still, he and Morgan chose to hire a specialist to install their patio door replacement. The reason? “Time is money” as Morgan put it. Hiring a window and door contractor meant Jamie could focus on client work while knowing their door would be installed by an experienced and efficient team. Equally important, Andersen Certified Contractors warranty their work for up to two years, so the Molitors have peace of mind too. "If we have a problem, we know we can call them,” Morgan said.