How to Add a Garage Door Window

A garage door window can be a pleasing addition to any garage, as it offers natural light, which makes it a pleasant place to spend time, as compared to a garage with artificial light. They are rather easy to install, and with some simple tools and basic knowledge of their workings you can install a window for your garage door.

Step 1 - Take Measurements for the Garage Door Window

A garage door window has to be the correct size so that it fits in your door. It must fit inside one panel on your garage door, which is why it has to be no bigger than the panel under consideration. They are generally small so that they survive the process of the garage door opening and closing. Choose where on the garage door you’d like your new window (generally, they are mounted high on the garage door). After choosing a location for your window, take measurements of the panel in which you wish to add your window.

Step 2 - Mark the Spot for the Window

After you have the measurements for your garage door panels, you need to mark the opening of the window on the panel. If your garage door is prefabricated, the back of the window you install will go through the door, while the front of the window is attached to the door of the garage. Hence, you will need to make an opening in the panel of the garage door large enough for the back of the window. You should measure the back of the window and then mark a rectangle using a pencil. After marking the rectangle, apply masking tape to the rectangle to guide you when you are cutting the panel.

Step 3 - Use Jigsaw to Cut Openings

Using the Jigsaw, cut an opening for each window you wish to insert. Follow the inside of the masking tape to cut the hole the same size as the window. Make sure you have the measurements right since if you cut a hole larger than the window, the entire hole will go to waste.

Step 4 - Caulk and Attach Front Window

Since your new window will be exposed to the weather, you will need to add some protection which can be achieved using caulk. Without this, the elements will be able to enter the garage through the window. All you need to do is line waterproof caulk around the edges of the window before inserting it into the door. Line each side of the window with caulk, and then fit the window in place. Any residue caulk should be wiped away using a rag.

Step 5 - Attach the Back of the Window

The way the front and back sides of your window attach together will vary greatly, depending on your manufacturer, or the type of windows you have selected. In most cases (and if you purchase a prefabricated garage door window), the window will come with screws, which are used to screw the front and back sides together. If not, simply follow the instructions your manufacturer provided for securing both sides of the window together. If you follow the instructions correctly, you will have a garage window that will stay in place for years.