How to Replace Your Door Glass
Replacing doorglass is a simple weekend DIY project — no caulking, no special-order wait when it's in stock locally.
Safety first
Doorglass is heavy tempered glass. Use two people, especially for 22" by 64" tall units. Wear safety glasses and gloves, and lay a drop cloth under your work area.
Watch the installation
Pick a chapter to start the video at that point — the written step below jumps into view too.
Measure your existing opening
Measure the visible glass width and height, then check the door slab thickness. Standard installs need a door that's 1-3/4" ± 1/16" thick. Pick the frame size that gives you a little extra width and height around the glass.
| Glass size | Max frame width | Max frame height |
|---|---|---|
| 8x36 | 10" | 38" |
| 8x48 | 10" | 50" |
| 8x64 | 10" | 66" |
| 7x64 | 9" | 66" |
| 20x36 | 22" | 38" |
| 20x64 | 22" | 66" |
| 22x36 | 24" | 38" |
| 22x48 | 24" | 50" |
| 22x64 | 24" | 66" |
Remove the old glass
- Locate and remove the attachment screws around the interior frame. Pop out any screw plugs first.
- Carefully lift away the interior frame from inside the house.
- Gently pry the exterior frame loose from the door slab. A putty knife helps break any paint seal.
- Clean the opening, remove old caulk or debris, and check the door edges for rot or damage.
Install the new doorglass
- Fit the exterior frame and glass from outside the door so it sits flush in the opening.
- From inside, align the interior frame and press it into place.
- Secure screws evenly, working side to side and top to bottom, so the frame pulls in flat.
- Snap screw plugs into place for a clean look.
- If you removed the door, rehang it and check the sweep and hinges.
Finishing tip
Frames can be left as-is, painted, or stained to match your door. If you're staining, lightly scuff the frame first and use a finish rated for exterior trim.
Tools you'll need
- Safety glasses & work gloves
- Drill with Phillips bit
- Putty knife or flat pry bar
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Painter's tape
- Window cleaner
- Drop cloth
Backed by warranty & local support
Products are backed by a manufacturer warranty. Contact us if you have questions about your installation — we're local and happy to help.
Common Installation Questions
Answers before you call — though we're always happy to talk it through.
What size doorglass do I need?
Measure the width and height of your existing doorglass opening and check it against our size chart above. Standard sizes range from 8"x36" up to 22"x64". If your measurements fall between standard sizes or you're unsure, request a quote and we'll help confirm the right fit.
What door thickness does doorglass fit?
Our doorglass is designed for doors that are 1-3/4" (± 1/16") thick — the standard for residential steel and fiberglass entry doors. It is not designed for wood doors or doors without rigid steel frames.
Can I install doorglass myself?
Yes — most homeowners can replace their doorglass in an afternoon with basic tools (drill, putty knife, tape measure). We recommend two people for the job, especially for taller 48" and 64" units, since the glass is heavy. Full step-by-step instructions are on this page.
Do I need to remove the door from its hinges?
For smaller sizes, no — the glass can usually be installed with the door in place. For 48" and 64" length units, we recommend removing the door and laying it flat for a safer, easier install.
Is the glass safe if it breaks?
Yes. All doorglass units use tempered safety glass, the same standard used in vehicle side windows, which is designed to resist impact and break into small, less hazardous pieces if it ever fails.
Can I paint or stain the frame to match my door?
Yes. Frames can be left as-is, painted, or stained to match your home's finish. If painting, use an adhesion-promoting primer suited for polypropylene, then finish with an exterior-grade acrylic latex paint.
What's covered under warranty?
Doorglass is covered by a manufacturer's limited warranty (20 years). Labor is not included. The warranty doesn't cover damage from shipping, handling, improper installation, storage, or unusual conditions. Contact us if you have a warranty question — we're your local point of contact.
What if I need help during installation?
Call us first before returning to the store — we're happy to help troubleshoot your specific install. See our contact info in the footer.
Do you offer contractor / bulk pricing on doorglass?
Yes — contractors and builders can open a trade account for volume pricing, fast quotes, and priority pickup. See our Contractors page for details.
Do you deliver, or is it pickup only?
Local pickup in Calgary is available now. Local delivery is launching soon — contact us for current availability in your area.
Not sure which size you need?
Request a quote and we'll help you measure. We can also recommend the right glass style and frame finish for your door.