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    gp_guy's Avatar
    gp_guy Posts: 8, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Oct 1, 2013, 05:47 AM
    Modify exterior door
    The back door has a glass inset. I would like to remove the glass, reduce its height and replace the missing bit with a solid panel/dog door combination. Is it likely that the glass is a special composition, and can't be cut? I'll post a picture in the next post (can't seem to be sure I'll get the option on this one.)
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    gp_guy Posts: 8, Reputation: 1
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    #2

    Oct 1, 2013, 05:49 AM
    Here's the pic:
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    gp_guy Posts: 8, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Oct 1, 2013, 05:50 AM
    Oh, and I'll probably need to cut into the lower panel - Westie's aren't that tall :)
    joypulv's Avatar
    joypulv Posts: 21,591, Reputation: 2941
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    #4

    Oct 1, 2013, 05:54 AM
    Looks like insulated glass (double pane). If so, it can't be cut, and doors have to have safety glass even when the glass is higher because your door opens against a side wall (not that anyone would really know, but that's the code).

    Sometimes it's cheaper to buy a used door off craigslist or a junkyard.

    But you can take it out and replace the top with glass, and a wood panel in the bottom (like PT plywood) and yes, you can cut into the bottom rail.
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    #5

    Oct 1, 2013, 05:58 AM
    The glass sits in a metal frame - another picture:
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    #6

    Oct 1, 2013, 06:01 AM
    Quote Originally Posted by joypulv View Post
    Looks like insulated glass (double pane). If so, it can't be cut, and doors have to have safety glass even when the glass is higher because your door opens against a side wall (not that anyone would really know, but that's the code).

    Sometimes it's cheaper to buy a used door off craigslist or a junkyard.

    But you can take it out and replace the top with glass, and a wood panel in the bottom (like PT plywood) and yes, you can cut into the bottom rail.
    That sounds about right. I may just buy a smaller light (is that what it is called?) and modify the door that way. THD wanted nearly a thousand dollars for my pruchase and install of a different door.
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #7

    Oct 1, 2013, 06:04 AM
    Glass is tempered and cannot be cut. You can remove the glass, install the insert and regular glass. However, a replacement door with a 1/2 glass would be a lot easier.
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    joypulv Posts: 21,591, Reputation: 2941
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    #8

    Oct 1, 2013, 06:24 AM
    Many people have a tough time with a replacement door that isn't set up - routing for hinges, and lining up the lockset. Difficult. A set up door would be the best if you choose that.

    But I can see why modifying the door you have might be easier in some ways, and cheaper.
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