How to Add a Door Lite to Existing Entrance Door

How to Add a Door Lite to Existing Entrance Door

by DoorLiteDepot Admin on Sep 16, 2024 Categories: Door Lite Depot How To Guides

Welcome to our easy guide on how to add a door lite to your entrance door! Whether you're looking to let in more light or update the look of your door, this step-by-step tutorial will walk you through the process. It's simple to follow, and we've made sure to include all the essential tools, tips, and safety precautions to make your installation as smooth as possible. If you run into any issues or have questions along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!

Safety First

    • Wear Safety Gear: Put on some safety goggles to protect your eyes from dust, debris, or glass. Don't forget to wear gloves to keep your hands safe from sharp edges and heavy stuff.
    • Secure the Door: Make sure your door is lying flat and level while you’re working on it. This helps avoid accidents.
    • Right Tools Matter: Use the right tools, and make sure they're working well. No shortcuts here, using the wrong tool might damage your door or window!
    • Get a Friend to Help: It’s always better to have someone else there, especially when you’re taking the door off its hinges. They can help make the job easier and safer.

     


    Tools You’ll Need

    Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need:

    Tools Needed: screw driver, safety glasses, maskign tape, bubble level, tape measure, saw horse, hammer, jigsaw, pencil, safety gloves, d

     


     

     

    Step 1: Remove Handle and Lock Set

     

    Remove Door Knobs and accessories

    First, take off the lock set, handle, and any other door hardware. This prevents them from getting damaged during the install. Now’s a good time to check the door for any issues, too.

     

    Step 2: Take Door Off Hinges

     

    Remove Hinges

    With the door shut, use a screwdriver and hammer to remove the hinge pins. Just tap them out and lift the door off the hinges. Put it on a saw horse so it's easier to work on.

     

    Step 3: Place Door on Saw Horse

     

    Lay door down on saw horse

    Now that the door is off, lay it down flat on the saw horse to make the install easier.

     

    Step 4: Measure and Mark the Cutting Area

     

    Measure and marking entrance door

    Measure and mark where you’ll cut for the door lite. Use painter’s tape around the area to protect the door while cutting. (You can check the cutout measurements on the product page if you’re unsure.)

     

    Step 5: Drill Pilot Holes

     

    drill pilot holes

    Drill a pilot hole at each corner of the marked area. Use a 3/8 bit for this. These holes help you start the cut with your jigsaw.

     

    Step 6: Make the Cut

     

    Making the cut on the entry door for the new door lite

    Place the jigsaw into one of the pilot holes, and cut along the lines from one hole to the next. After you’ve made the first cut, flip the door over and do the same on the other side.

     

    Step 7: Install the Door Lite

     

    install steps for a door lite

    Now, time to put everything together! Lay out the front frame, the glass, and the door with the front facing down. Then, place the back frame on top. Screw everything together nice and snug but don’t over-tighten! Add the screw caps to finish it off.

     

    Step 8: Put the Door Back

    Reinstalling door and hinges
    Reinstall door accessories and knobs

    Re-hang your door by placing it back on the hinges and reinstalling the handle and lock set. Give the new door lite a quick clean with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to make it shine!

     


     

    And that’s it! You’ve just installed your new door lite. Great job! 

     

    If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to our customer support team!

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