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How to Budget for a New Patio Door

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How to Budget for a New Patio Door

Swap out that drafty door before the spring rush and manage the cost without paying extra in interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $2,200 before anything else
Across the 0% window $146.67/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $2,200 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A new sliding patio door changes the whole feel of your living space. You get better light, a tighter seal against the elements, and an easier way to get to the backyard. Getting this done early in the spring is smart because you beat the rush when everyone else suddenly decides to renovate.

Labor rates for contractors tend to climb as the weather warms up and their schedules fill. Aim to get your quotes while it is still cool out. You will want to give yourself a few weeks to find a crew before the busy season hits.

Remember that the 0% intro APR is a deadline, not free money. If you have a remaining balance on the card after the 15 months are up, you will start paying interest on whatever is left, which will quickly make the door more expensive.

The steps

  1. 01

    Get three quotes

    Do not just call the first person you find on a search engine. Have three different contractors come out to see the space. Compare their estimates carefully to make sure they are quoting the same quality of materials and level of service.

  2. 02

    Set your timeline

    Lock in your contractor early in the spring. Make sure they can finish the install before the prime renovation season starts. This keeps your labor costs lower and ensures you are not waiting months for a spot on their calendar.

  3. 03

    Use the Discover it® Cash Back

    You can pay for the $2200 project using the Discover it® Cash Back. It offers 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. This allows you to break the total cost into manageable chunks over the 15-month intro window instead of paying it all at once.

  4. 04

    Automate your payments

    Divide your total project cost of $2200 by the 15 months you have. That comes out to $146.67 per month. Set up an automatic payment for this amount so you stay on track and avoid carrying a balance past the deadline.

  5. 05

    Check for tax credits

    Ask your contractor if the specific door you are picking qualifies for any energy efficiency tax credits. Sometimes the government gives you money back at tax time for installing better windows or doors. It is a nice way to lower your total cost even more.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Should I buy the door myself or let the contractor buy it?

Let the contractor buy it. They usually get a trade discount and they know exactly which sizes and frame types fit your home best.

How long does the actual installation take?

Most standard sliding patio door replacements only take one day. A professional crew will remove the old unit and seal the new one in a few hours.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment?

Missing a payment can lead to late fees and might even cause the lender to cancel your 0% intro APR offer early. Always pay at least the minimum on time.

Are there hidden costs with door replacements?

Sometimes contractors find rot or water damage in the wall once they pull the old door out. Budget an extra ten percent just in case the frame needs repairs.