Door Window Installation

[CptnBG]

Did a search and only found threads where some have replaced opaque windows for clear.

I'm thinking about installing a whole new clear window in the lower part of my entry door so I can see what's directly behind me. Mainly my kayak trailer. I considered a backup camera but see a lot of bad reviews on the lower priced ones.

Has anyone done this? Any structural concerns? Just cut a hole with a jigsaw?

[dakonthemountai]

I just replaced the outside and inside frames on my lower clear door window. What a PITA to do! You need 2 people to do it (at least I could have used help!)so one can hold the glass/outside frame against the door while someone inside lines up the inside frame and puts the screws in to sandwich the two together and hold the glass in. I didn't have help and really got angry trying to do something I assumed would be so simple by myself. Good luck and be careful!

Dak

[AnEv942]

Simular frames? should be that simple. The only issue might be resealing, ours had a thin ribbon of adhesive mastic tape. When I had the clear cut to replace our opaqe the glass shop gave me some.
But that could be worked around. That and ensure outside doenst fall out...

[Super_Dave]

Looking for help in swapping the panes of glass from top to bottom. Is it as easy as unscrewing the interior window trim?

[AnEv942]

Myself if didnt have a lower window I would add one. Actually on the round to it, if I came across frame is to change our little lower window to similar one as upper.
Unless there was a structural cross piece (doubtful) exactly where you want window, especial if small sight glass, do not see how it could make door less secure or sound. Not much to most doors and many have lower window. You might need to insert a frame or blocking for the window to sandwich outer panles. Some doors (ours) are screwed together so could be disassembled, but if/when jig saw would be my 1st reach. With either a very long or very short fine tooth and lots of tape to protect surface.

Lastly though is price. Windows arent exactly cheap either. So if you otherwise dont want/need window, that might be consideration.

[covered_wagon]

For 500 bucks you could just about build it from scratch with welded aluminum and the better foam insulation.

[husky390]

Personally, I'd buy the camera. I had to rebuild the door on my 92 Northland and it's enough to make me not want to mess with a door again. It only consists of a wood frame, piece of styrafoam sandwiched between two pieces of fiberglass. Pretty flimsy. I work for a garage door dealer and I've been half tempted to turn a sandwich door panel into a door on my camper. It'd be stronger than what I have. I think Northland quote me about $500 for a new door. That's a lot of camera's you can buy in case your new window reduces the structural integrity of the door.