How to Insulate a Sliding Patio Door

Homeowners use glass to accentuate their sliding patio door. The use of the glass patio door offers the home a good feature if it is well-insulated, especially during the winter months. However, if there is poor insulation on the glass door, this will cause ice to form, causing extreme coldness in the home.

There are things that can be done to avoid this problem with glass sliding patio doors, especially during the cold weather. Below are the materials that you need along with the instructions on how to insulate a sliding patio door.

Step 1 - Checking the Weather-stripping

Check the weather-stripping seal placed on the gaps of the sliding door. When the door is opened, this can be seen over to the right end side. If damage is seen on the weather-stripping, simply pull it out and replace. The weather-stripping material may be purchased at local hardware stores.

Step 2 - Setting the Window Film

In a home improvement store, purchase an insulating window film kit that contains the tools and materials needed for the installation of the window film as well as the instruction. The material used is clear plastic.

The window surface area must be cleaned all around, cleared of any dust that will come in the way of the application of a double-sided tape. With a double-sided tape, apply enough of this to surround the window area.

Adjust the size of the clear plastic if needed by cutting the right size to use before attaching it to the double-sided tape. For the plastic to fit snugly, use a blow dryer to shrink the clear plastic and smooth out the wrinkles.

Step 3 - Choosing the Right Window Insulator

The next step is to apply the insulation for the window, which may be done by purchasing any type of window treatments, like insulating curtains, window quilt or window blinds. The type to consider should possess an insulating factor.

The product selected for use should have an indication of the insulating factor, which should be carefully considered to obtain the desired insulating effect on the home.

Step 4 - Window Insulating Panel

Part of the insulating process is to make a window insulating panel. Find a lightweight form of insulating material. Measure the sliding window and determine the size of the insulating panel which should cover the top of the door frame down to the floor area.

It should go over the window side, and the size should be enough to cover the whole window. The insulating panel should be cut to the appropriate measurement taken. Make 4 pieces of paneling from 1 x 3 inch wood to cover the four sides.

The frame should be made as well, and this should be attached to the panel using duct tape or wood glue. The outside portion of the panel should be painted and positioned securely opposite the window.