Door Options
A Window into a Door

In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about converting a window into a door, opening up new possibilities for your home.

As our needs change, many homeowners consider transforming a window into a door, whether to create backyard access or bring more light into a space. These projects are becoming increasingly popular, and with good reason. 

Much of the framework is already in place, since the top of a window opening often aligns with a door frame, and most windows aren’t part of load-bearing walls. That makes converting a window into a door a practical and appealing upgrade.

However, this is not a simple DIY project - changing a window into a door should only be done by an experienced, licensed contractor.

Why change a window into a door?

What are your typical choices

Anatomy of a wall

This illustration outlines the essential framing elements used in residential wood construction to accommodate window and door openings. It highlights load-bearing members such as king studs, jack studs, and headers (lintels), as well as non-load-bearing components like cripple studs and sills. The double top plate and bottom plate provide horizontal continuity, while the rough openings are reinforced to distribute structural loads and maintain integrity across the wall system.

Hurdles and considerations

Permit Requirements

Building Codes

Check area building codes for minimum door width requirements. If the door is positioned higher than ground level, a landing and steps may be required to ensure the pathway out from your new door is safe.

Cleaning

Converting a window into a door is a messy job. Although good installers will try to ensure the cleanest working site possible, be prepared for above-average amounts of dust inside and outside your home when all the cutting is done.

Electrical

Sometimes, electrical wiring may run below a window. Professional contractors have the equipment to trace wires through the wall and can establish whether there is wiring. If there is electrical wiring, the breaker for the electrical wiring circuit will need to be switched off, and once the door opening has been cut, the electrical wiring will need to be rerouted by a professional electrician. There are specific building codes that have to be adhered to when splitting wires and creating junction boxes.

Plumbing

Generally speaking, in the Ottawa area, plumbing is not run through the outside wall because of potential freezing in winter. However, if the doorway is located where an external faucet is located, a plumber may be required, and the water may need to be shut off temporarily.

Structural

Assessability

Before you decide on a location for your new door, ensure that its positioning allows for an unobstructed opening. Typically, exterior swing and garden doors open into a home, but it is possible to have them open out - ask your specialist for advice if you are not sure what you should do.

Energy Efficiency

Although the insulating properties of doors have become increasingly more efficient over the years, they are still not as energy efficient as a wall. A solid door will be more energy-efficient than a window, but if you are widening the opening to accommodate a patio door or garden door, there could be a slight decrease in overall efficiency.

Finishing

Advanced carpentry requirements for altering a load-bearing wall are pretty much done for you in the door installation. But once your window-to-door conversion has been completed, there may still be several finishing items required. Some installers will do everything, but many won't, and if you are not a handy fixer, you may need to hire a handyman. Be sure to ask your installer what they will and will not finish - so there will be no surprises.

Tip: Want stained glass or a decorative sidelight? A brick exterior or upgraded trim? These add charm, and impact pricing. We’ll provide a clear breakdown so you can choose what’s most important to you.

Steps involved in a window-to-door conversion

Tip: Be ready for mess (and we’ll clean up): Converting a window into a door creates a surprising amount of dust. We take precautions, clean up thoroughly, and let you enjoy the end result with minimal hassle.

Costs Involved

Think energy and financing: Upgrading your entrance can improve insulation and reduce heating costs. And with programs like the Canada Greener Homes Loan still available (at time of publishing), it may be more affordable than you think.

Building Code Considerations – Leave it to Bayview Windows Experts

When converting a window into a door, Ontario Building Code requirements must be carefully followed. For example:

At Bayview Windows, our installation experts know these requirements inside and out. We take care of code compliance, ensuring your new door is not only beautiful and functional, but also safe, legal, and built to last.

Tip: Winter-friendly installation: Whether it's -20 °C outside or a mild spring day, our skilled team installs doors year-round—allowing you to start or finish your project whenever it fits your schedule.

What about adding a door where there is no window?

The process of putting a door into a wall is very similar to a window-to-door conversion, with the exception that there may be more complexity in ensuring the stability of load-bearing walls, and the door frame/header will have to be created from scratch.