Upgrading exterior doors is a practical investment that boosts curb appeal, security, and energy efficiency for Indianapolis homes. At Modern Day Exterior Doors, we offer a wide range of premium exterior door options and expert installation to fit your lifestyle and budget.
Ready to begin? Learn how to replace a sliding glass door with confidence, guided by our four-step process and customization options.
Why replace a sliding glass door: benefits and signals
Assessing signs that a replacement is needed
Recognizing when a sliding glass door is ready for an upgrade starts with routine inspection. Look for drafts around the frame, difficulty sliding the door, or uneven glass that fogs or cracks with temperature changes. Warped tracks, persistent condensation, or visible gaps can signal compromised insulation. If you notice that your door requires frequent maintenance or is no longer sealing properly, it’s a strong indicator that an energy-efficient replacement will deliver long-term savings and improved comfort.
Energy efficiency, security, and curb appeal
Modern exterior doors are engineered for tighter seals, better weather resistance, and improved glass performance. A well-chosen door reduces heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, lowering energy bills and stabilizing indoor temperatures. Beyond efficiency, upgraded doors enhance security with robust locking systems and reinforced frames. Finally, the right door elevates curb appeal, setting the tone for the home’s exterior and boosting resale value.
Common myths about exterior door upgrades
Many homeowners assume all exterior doors are similar or that replacement is disruptive and costly. In reality, contemporary doors offer modular installation, faster timelines, and durable materials that withstand Indiana weather. With professional planning, measurement precision, and style customization, a door upgrade can be completed with minimal downtime and maximum payoff.
Planning your door replacement project
Measuring for a precise fit
Accurate measurements are the cornerstone of a successful installation. Start with the rough opening: width, height, and depth. Check for plumb walls, square corners, and level thresholds. Measure multiple times, note deviations, and communicate them to your installer. This diligence prevents ordering delays and ensures a seal that performs as designed for years to come.
Budgeting: materials, labor, and permits
Budget considerations extend beyond the door price. Account for hardware upgrades, glazing options, and any necessary framing adjustments. Labor costs vary by door type and complexity, while permits may apply for remodels in certain Indianapolis neighborhoods. A transparent quote should itemize materials, installation, and any site prep so you can compare options confidently and avoid surprise fees.
Timeline and permits in Indianapolis
Plan for a decision window of 1–2 weeks to select doors, followed by a scheduled installation window. Most standard exterior door replacements can be completed within one day with a skilled crew, though larger or custom configurations may require additional time. Check local permit requirements early in the process to prevent delays; your installer can guide you through any necessary paperwork and inspections.
Door types for exterior spaces: replace a sliding glass door considerations
Exterior door styles: sliding, hinged, and French
Sliding doors remain popular for their expansive views and space-saving operation, but hinged exterior doors and French doors offer distinctive aesthetics and performance. Sliding systems maximize daylight and access to patios, while hinged options provide traditional elegance and sometimes easier egress. French doors blend form and function, delivering classic appeal with modern energy performance. Your choice should align with architectural style, maintenance preferences, and the level of traffic the door will endure daily.
Materials, energy ratings, and durability
Materials range from durable fiberglass and steel to premium wood and thermo-vena composites. Energy ratings, such as U-values and solar heat gain coefficients, should be considered alongside frame construction and weatherstripping. Durable door assemblies with reinforced jambs, multi-point locking, and insulated cores deliver long-term comfort and cost savings, especially in a climate that experiences seasonal extremes.
Customization options: hardware, finishes, glazing
Customization enables doors to reflect personal style while meeting performance goals. Hardware choices include handles, deadbolts, and auxiliary locks, often with finishes like brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze, or matte black. Finishes can range from smooth paints to authentic wood veneers. Glazing options—tinted, low-emissivity (Low-E), or patterned—balance privacy with light transmittance, and can subtly influence interior ambiance and energy efficiency.
The 4-Step Door Replacement Process
Step 1: In-home assessment and measurements
Our process begins with a comprehensive in-home visit to evaluate the existing opening, weather conditions, and structural considerations. We record precise measurements, assess insulation needs, and discuss desired styles and performance goals. This step ensures we recommend door configurations that fit your space and budget without surprises later.
Step 2: Selecting doors, hardware, and finishes
With measurements in hand, you choose the door type, material, glazing, and hardware. We provide clear options, including energy ratings and warranty terms, so you can compare configurations side by side. Our team helps translate style preferences into practical selections that balance aesthetics with durability and performance.
Step 3: Installation and quality checks
Installation is performed by trained technicians who follow best practices for weather sealing, shimming, and threshold alignment. We verify square, plumb, and level conditions, install high-performance weatherstripping, and test operation across the full range of motion. After installation, we perform a thorough quality check to confirm fit, finish, and function meet our standards.
Step 4: Post-installation inspection, warranty, and maintenance tips
We conclude with a walk-through to demonstrate care and maintenance routines that maximize longevity. You’ll receive warranty coverage details and guidance on simple checks to maintain seals and hardware. Regular maintenance—such as cleaning tracks, lubricating hardware, and inspecting weatherstripping—helps sustain efficiency and curb appeal for years to come.
Why choose Modern Day Exterior Doors for your Indianapolis project
Professional installation and warranty coverage
Our experienced team combines craftsmanship with precision, delivering clean finishes and dependable performance. Comprehensive warranties on doors, hardware, and installation provide peace of mind, backed by responsive support should questions arise post-installation.
Transparent pricing and flexible scheduling
We believe in clear, upfront pricing with no hidden costs. Our quotes outline product options, labor, and any permit-related expenses, so you can align the project with your financial plan. Flexible scheduling minimizes disruption to your daily routine while meeting project deadlines.
Next steps: how to get started with Modern Day
To begin your door upgrade, contact our Indianapolis team to schedule a no-obligation consultation. We’ll assess your space, discuss goals, and present a tailored solution that fits your home’s style and your budget. With Modern Day Exterior Doors, your upgrade is a choice you can make with confidence.