ᐅ Subsequent Modification of Glass Door

Hello everyone,

We are planning to install a used plastic glass door on the balcony of our holiday home soon. See the picture.

The only issue is the vertical bar in the middle, as we have a rather nice view from the apartment.

Our question is whether it is possible to have a glazier remove the glass and the vertical bar and replace them with a single continuous glass pane. And if yes, whether this would be economically reasonable compared to buying a new door. Maybe there is a rough estimate of what this could cost.

The second question is that since the interior of the apartment is quite small, we would prefer to install the door so that it opens outward. The safety seems better with an inward-opening door, but we could add additional security inside. Are there any other significant reasons against this? Note: 1 meter (3 feet) above the door on the outside is a covered area.

We would appreciate any feedback. Thank you in advance.

Pepe1234 schrieb:

The question now is whether it is possible to have a glazier remove the glass and the mullion and replace them with a single uninterrupted pane of glass.

Good question. I would assume that the mullion provides structural stability to the door, so removing it might not be advisable.
You could try removing one pane to check how the mullion is fixed. Then it might be possible to determine if it’s technically feasible.
New glass and modifications by a glazier/window installer: for simple glass, I’d estimate around €1,000 (approx. $1,000).

Pepe1234 schrieb:

The security seems somewhat better with the door opening inward, but we could add additional internal security measures.

What did you have in mind? For a balcony of a vacation home, at least on the upper floor, I wouldn’t worry too much about the door’s security. The glass is usually the weakest point—break-ins via a balcony are among the less common types of burglary.

Hello Nordanney,

sorry for the slightly delayed reply.
Thank you very much for your feedback.
The frame around the outside is built so solidly that I have no concerns regarding the structural requirements. There are plenty of these doors without the central bar. But your estimate of 1000 euros is definitely a considerable amount to replace it. Phew. I will probably just get a quote from a glazier / window manufacturer.

Regarding security, it’s reassuring what you wrote. Exactly on the second floor. I always thought balconies were a favorite point of entry because it’s easy to climb up there if you don’t have two left feet and if you’re a bit used to walking in the mountains. I imagine a professional burglar would have that as a basic skill. And it’s definitely easier to break windows or doors than the front door with a double lock and security cylinder. But you sound like you know the numbers.

Thanks again for your help.
If anyone else has any thoughts, feel free to share.

Best regards

Pepe1234 schrieb:

But you sound like you know the numbers.

You can check them online with the police and authorities. These are not secrets.

Pepe1234 schrieb:

Phew. I guess I’ll just get a quote from the glazier / window manufacturer.

Yep, only they can give you certainty. This was an estimate based on a glass replacement I had done about six months ago for a window. Slightly larger than your door – €650 as the lowest offer. But that’s just the glass replacement itself, without the extensive frame work.

A suitable door is likely to be more affordable. Only a quote will provide clarity here.