Entry Exterior Door Can you put in glass?

Question

I have a steel entry exterior door with a fan window on top. It also has 4 solid panels that are 24 inches long by 8" wide. My question is can those be cut out and replaced with glass?

Answer 1

Somehow in my feeble mind I have to ask this.

Wouldn't it be more cost effective to just replace the door with one you like?.By the time you consider everything involved.Silly me.

Good Luck

Answer 2

Yes, it's possible but it's a little tricky. A steel exterior door is typically insulated with rigid foam, so you'll have to cut through the steel and foam together. You can purchase an insulated glass unit from a door company, but price out this option first--you may find that buying the units separately is nearly as expensive as buying a new door.

The window units I've seen are two parts that s***w together from each side of the opening, clemping the door between them.  Be sure to get the exact dimensions (rough opening size, thickness) of the window units before you cut into your door, though. Have the units on hand before you cut. You'll have to caulk where the window frame meets  the surface of the door, and I'd spray some minimal expanding foam sealant on the edges of the cutouts before placing the new window framing.

For more on insulated doors:

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/...

Answer 3

Putting glass in an entry door within a couple of feet of the lock is a code violation for security in many cities.  Replacing the deadbolt with an interior keyed lock is a violation of the fire code almost everywhere.  And yes, I know whole subdivisions are built with glass front doors that you can see all the way into the living room ("Oh we keep the key to the lock right there so we can get out in case of fire.")

Answer 4

I think it would be really hard, those doors are usually filled with some kind of foam insulation. Those doors are pretty energy efficient, and it seems like cutting into them could cause insulation/moisture problems.

Buying a new door with glass in it would be more practical