Back door window shattered

Hi,

Can window panels on upvc back doors be replaced or is it a full new door? window got shattered by a stray stone when grass was being cut

Asked by Reece on 14th Apr 2025
Expert Trade Answers
"Depends on the door
Load a pic ?
If it’s UPVC is all good
But some aluminium doors can’t"
Answered on 14th Apr 2025 - Member since Jun 2024 - report
"Good news: you definitely don't need a full new door if only the window panel is shattered. In almost all UPVC doors, the glazed panels are designed to be replaceable. The panel is typically held in place by glazing beads (plastic strips) that can be carefully removed. Then the broken glass (or double-glazed unit) can be swapped out with a new one.

Here's generally how it's done:

A professional (or an experienced DIYer) would remove the glazing beads around the shattered panel.

The broken glass is carefully taken out (safely, because it can be dangerous).

Measurements are confirmed (thickness, width, height, and sometimes the glass type, e.g., clear, frosted, toughened).

A new glass unit is ordered and installed.

The beads are clipped back into place to secure the new panel.

My opinion:
If the door itself is still structurally sound and closing/locking properly, replacing just the glass is by far the cheaper and faster route. Full door replacements are expensive and usually unnecessary in a case like this.
Tip: make sure you ask for toughened safety glass when replacing — it’s a building regulation requirement for door glazing to prevent injury if it breaks.

Would you also like me to give you an idea of typical costs for replacing a panel like this? (It might help you compare quotes if you’re hiring someone.)"
Answered on 28th Apr 2025 - Member since Apr 2025 - report
"Hi
If you want to replace the glass, it will be more cost-effective for you, I can support you professionally in this regard."
Answered on 14th Apr 2025 - Member since Jan 2025 - report
"Hi.
Yes you can just replace the glass panel 👍
If you can have a little measure I will be able to give you a cost.
Many thanks
Dave"
Answered on 14th Apr 2025 - Member since Aug 2024 - report
"Yes, in most cases, the window panels on uPVC back doors can be replaced without needing a full new door.

These panels are usually either:
1. Double glazed sealed units or
2. Single glazed glass panes set into a removable beading frame."
Answered on 14th Apr 2025 - Member since Mar 2025 - report
"Hi, Yes these can be replaced. you would need to measure external bead sizes and deduct 10mm also need to find the thickness and make sure its toughened"
Answered on 26th Apr 2025 - Member since Jan 2024 - report
"It should be able to be replaced, as long as the frame of the door isn't damaged"
Answered on 14th Apr 2025 - Member since Jan 2025 - report
Find Tradespeople, compare up to 3 quotes!
It's FREE and there are no obligations
Ask a Trade
Got a question that only a tradesperson can answer? We have thousands of trades ready to answer any question you may have.
Ask your question
Ask a Trade

Are you looking for advice on a DIY project or have a question for our tradespeople?

We'll email your question to tradespeople who are skilled in your chosen category.

Your question will be made public - please do not include any personal details.

{{ first(ask.errors)[0] }}

By continuing you agree to the Community Guidelines.

Report Content

{{ first(reportForm.errors) }}

Thank you

Your report has been created and will be investigated shortly.

Ready to get a price for your home improvement project?
Get started

Over 1 million homeowners and over 50,000 tradespeople
use MyJobQuote nationwide each year