Like all windows from Wallside Window’s Michigan factory, each new sliding glass door, or doorwall, is custom-made and backed by Wallside's fully transferable 35-year guarantee.
It happens when you least expect it. Your sliding glass door gets harder to open. Fog appears between the panes of glass. You can feel a draft near your patio door. These are some of the most common signs that a sliding glass patio door may need repair or replacement.
How long does a sliding glass door last?
There is no typical lifespan for a sliding patio door or, as we say in Michigan, a doorwall. How long one lasts depends on its quality, how frequently it is used, its exposure to the elements and how well it is maintained.
A high-quality sliding glass door can last for decades, according to David Schmier, director of sales at Wallside Windows.
“It’s not unusual for us to get a first service call on a door that was installed in the 1980’s – more than 40 years ago,” he said.
Like all windows from Wallside Window’s Michigan factory, each new doorwall, is custom-made for the home and backed by Wallside's fully transferable 35-year guarantee.
There is no typical lifespan for a sliding patio door or, as we say in Michigan, a doorwall.
What is a doorwall?
If you're from Michigan, there's a good chance you've always called a sliding glass patio door a doorwall. But where did it come from?
Michiganders have used the term for decades, and Wallside Windows has long been credited with creating it. Both Urban Dictionary and Reddit attribute “doorwall” to Wallside Windows in Taylor, Michigan. Of course, there’s no definitive proof.
“No one here really knows the answer to that,” said Wallside Windows President Adam Blanck.
Regardless of its origin, the word has certainly stuck. It’s as common in Michigan as saying “pop” instead of soda.
What are signs a doorwall or sliding glass door needs repair or replacement?
Blanck and Schmier recommend watching for these trouble spots:
Sticking or difficulty sliding: Dirt and debris can collect in the track and rollers. Cleaning and silicone lubricant may help; persistent problems can indicate damaged rollers or tracks.
Fog between glass panes: Condensation inside dual-pane glass typically indicates seal failure. Extensive fogging in an older patio door may signal it's time for replacement.
A lock that doesn't secure properly: This can often be corrected with an adjustment or inexpensive replacement part.
A damaged screen: Torn mesh and problems with screen rollers or tracks can typically be repaired.
Drafts: Worn weather stripping or a door that's out of adjustment can allow outside air in.
Water infiltration: Clogged weep holes can cause water to back up into the home and should be addressed promptly.
Should I repair or replace my patio door?
One problem doesn't necessarily mean you need a new doorwall. Rollers, locks and weather stripping can often be repaired, and Wallside's 35-year guarantee covers many repairs, including parts and labor.
However, an older door with several problems — such as fogged glass, sticking, drafts or water infiltration — may be ready for replacement.
“That’s often a sign that the door might be toward the end of its life, and it’s best to replace the entire unit,” Schmier said.
Whether you call it a doorwall, sliding glass door, patio door, sliding patio door or sliding glass patio door, regular maintenance and timely repairs can keep it working properly for years.
Want an expert opinion? Contact Wallside Windows or call 313-292-4400 to schedule an experienced professional to your doorwall or windows. Estimates are always free.
