A French door is a light-colored door with glass panes running the majority of its length. French doors are sometimes called French windows, because they are typically installed as a pair rather than one.
The reason French doors got their name is because they were first made in France in the 16th and 17th century. The French discovered that the best way to add a sense of regularity, proportion, and illumination was to use a door that resembled a window and had glass panes running the majority of its length. These features were consistent with the prevailing Renaissance architectural concepts in France at the period.
What Is the Cost of Replacing Sliding Doors with French Doors

Why Homeowners Choose French Doors to Replace Sliding Glass Doors
Reasons for Replacement
- Evokes a sense of style, elegance, and history.
- Traditional, timeless look that complements many architectural styles, especially colonial, farmhouse, and craftsman homes.
- Large glass panels provide plenty of sunlight and unobstructed views of the outdoors.
- Swinging French door style provides a grand view and adds an air of elegance over sliding doors.
Functionality Benefits
- Excellent ventilation when both doors are open, bringing plenty of fresh air into the home.
- Creates a more inviting atmosphere by connecting indoor spaces to the outdoors.
- Wide entryway makes it easier to move large furniture or accommodate many people when entertaining.
Cost to Replace Sliding Glass Doors with French Doors
- Average cost ranges from $1,200 to $5,000 depending on materials and installation.
- Vinyl doors on the lower end of the price spectrum.
- Fiberglass options are more expensive due to durability and longevity.
- Installation costs vary based on project complexity.
DIY Considerations
- Not recommended to replace sliding doors with French doors yourself due to the need for precise alignment and proper sealing for energy efficiency.
- Poor installation can lead to drafts, leaks, and operational issues over time.
Affordable Alternatives
- Consider adding grids to sliding glass doors for a French door look without the full cost of renovation.
- French doors available in both sliding and swinging door operating styles to achieve the desired look.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Sliding Glass Door
First, the size of the door will determine the price. These days, smaller doors are less expensive than larger ones. That should go without saying, but the other customizations will also be very important.
A five-foot (1.5-meter) sliding glass door typically costs between $900 and $1400. However, a sliding glass door that is 10 feet (3 meters) long could cost up to $2000. A typical sliding glass door, in any case, costs between $10 and $50 per square foot. If you’re wondering what a frameless shower door is, it’s a common choice for contemporary bathrooms and, depending on the materials and design, can also affect the final cost.
Conclusion
In this piece, you learned about the cost of replacing sliding doors with French doors, why homeowners choose French doors to replace sliding glass doors, the cost to replace sliding glass doors with French doors, how much it costs to replace a sliding glass door, and other valuable concepts. For more informative guides, stay connected to Buildersviller.