The need to reorganise a home’s space and the search for functional solutions is often the reason to convert a balcony door into an entrance door. This simple procedure is not only a way to refresh the look of your home or flat, but also a chance to increase your living space. Are you wondering how to make the necessary alterations? Are you thinking about the paperwork to be done? Our specialists have prepared a step-by-step guide that will take you through the entire process. We hope you enjoy the read!

Contents:

1. Converting a balcony door into an entrance door – is it possible?
2. Take care of the necessary formalities
3. What do you need to consider when converting a balcony door into an entrance door?
4. How about replacing the handle?

Converting a balcony door into an entrance door – is it possible?

Many people convert their balcony door to an entrance door in order to save money, increase their living space and reorganise their home interior. Such a solution is a great way to improve functionality and maximise the use of space, as well as refreshing the look of our home.

However, before considering how to convert a balcony door into an entrance door, it is worth answering the question of whether this is always possible. In the case of detached houses, there are usually no major problems in getting permission to do this and getting the work done efficiently. The situation is much worse in the case of flats in blocks of flats or tenements, where it is usually not possible to obtain permission for replacement. In any case, formalities must be completed before commencing work.

Take care of the necessary formalities

All major alterations to a house or flat usually require the appropriate approval and completing the necessary formalities. In the case of changing a balcony door into an entrance door, it is necessary to obtain a permit from the relevant building authorities. Such a change affects not only the functionality of the building, but also its safety, so it must be in compliance with building regulations or the zoning plan. The application that we have to submit to the office has to be accompanied by a very precise description of the works, taking into account the impact of the door replacement on the structure of the entire building. The technical design drawn up by the architect should take into account all the technical and legal aspects that will allow the space to be used safely.

It is not uncommon for renovation work to require the assistance of specialists in sanitary or electrical installations. It is a good idea to consult with experts on an ongoing basis to avoid any problematic construction mishaps. Only after receiving approvals and documentation can we start modifying the balcony door. Once the renovation work has been completed, it is necessary to notify the relevant authorities and allow an inspection to be carried out. Whether it will be necessary to deal with formalities depends on the size of the planned renovation. The greater the interference with the building structure, the stricter the regulations.

What do you need to consider when converting a balcony door into an entrance door?

When converting a balcony door into an entrance door, it’s important to ensure an adequate level of protection. As a rule, the models available on the market do not have special security mechanisms to ensure the safety of our home. If the whole process of converting the door will only involve replacing the handle with a double-sided model, it is worth considering additional security features in the form of bolts, reinforcements or external shutters. If we decide to replace the balcony door with a different model, it’s worth choosing one with burglar-proof locks with special bolts that prevent forced entry. It’s often necessary to adapt the door frame or replace it with a more durable one to serve as the main entrance.

Converting the door is also an excellent opportunity to increase thermal and acoustic insulation. Door leaves with additional gaskets or falling thresholds will definitely increase the comfort of use and reduce the costs of heating the house or flat. What else should we keep in mind when deciding on this type of work? Adapting the door opening to the new door model can be a challenge. In this case, masonry work will be necessary to adapt it to the selected entrance door. Such solution should be taken into consideration already at the planning stage.

When choosing a particular model of entrance door, we should also pay attention to its aesthetics, so that it fully matches the appearance of the surroundings, creating a coherent, harmonious and well-thought-out whole. Which models work best as an entrance door?

How about replacing the handle?

Sometimes the best solution is the simplest one, even when converting a balcony door into an entrance door. If improving security or thermal or acoustic insulation parameters is not our priority, we can opt for fitting a double-sided handle to our balcony door. It will allow us to use it as an entrance door. This type of handle allows the balcony door to be conveniently opened and closed from both the outside and the inside. The cylinder and key used in it will make unauthorised access difficult and increase the safety of the youngest residents, who will not be able to open closed balcony doors themselves. This solution will allow us to use the balcony door as an entrance door at little cost and effort.

Converting a balcony door into an entrance door is an excellent way to improve functionality in a house or flat, a chance to increase living space and a way to refresh your home appearance. In addition to replacing the door with a completely new burglar-resistance, acoustic or standard entrance door, we can opt for a much cheaper solution, which is to simply replace the handle with a double-sided model with a lock, which will allow safe and comfortable closing and opening.