Door installation costs largely depend on the type of door and any framing work needed. Other factors include door customization and alterations to load-bearing walls.
Homeowners can save money by hiring a professional contractor for their door installation project. Find a top-rated expert in your area and request free, no-commitment project estimates.
Material
The cost to install a new entry door can vary widely, depending on the material used. Steel doors are a popular choice for their durability and security. They also offer energy efficiency, are easy to maintain and can increase your home’s curb appeal.
Wrought iron doors are more expensive but add elegance to your entryway. These high-end doors can range from $1,500 to $7,000. Fiberglass doors are a more affordable option that combine the beauty of wood with the strength of steel. They are available in many styles and colors and can help you save on energy costs.
The cost of installing interior doors can range from $375 to $1,125. This price includes materials and labor. Labor costs range between $40 and $90 per hour, and the time it takes to complete a project depends on the number of doors and their size. If a custom door is being installed, the labor cost will be higher.
Framing
The frame that surrounds your door is a critical part of how well it sits, closes, locks, and operates. It also plays a role in your home’s energy efficiency, security, and appearance.
Frames can be made from wood species such as pine, hemlock, and fir, which are soft and easy to work with. They can also be made from aluminum, vinyl, or fiberglass, which offer good insulation and resistance to scratching.
If you are installing a new interior door into an existing frame, a handyperson or general contractor is usually the best option. They typically charge a minimum of $50-100 per hour, though labor rates vary by area and the complexity of the work required.
If you are replacing an exterior door, it’s a smart idea to hire a licensed contractor that is experienced with building and repairing hurricane-resistant frames. These are built to withstand higher wind speeds than other standard doors, and they often meet FBC requirements for areas within the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ). The cost of an impact-resistant door frame is typically several hundred dollars more than a non-impact one.
Hardware
Door installation costs can quickly add up when homeowners select high-end options such as smart locks or wrought iron doorknobs. These features are not only functional, but they can also increase a home’s curb appeal. In addition, if homeowners choose to install exterior doors in a load-bearing wall, additional drywall and electrical work may be required.
Homeowners must consider whether or not to purchase a new or existing door frame when planning for door replacement. An “existing” door frame is a structural component that’s attached to the house using hinges on two sides and the top. These sides are known as jambs and can be found at a local hardware store or created on-site by a professional door contractor.
A door’s hinges, screws, hardware, threshold, and locks all need to be purchased, which can drive up the overall project cost. A hinge can run as little as $2 and up to $30, and a lock can cost as little as $10 or as much as $300.
Installation
Choosing the right door is essential for your home’s appearance, security, and comfort. An exterior door protects your property from intruders, and the right doors help reduce energy costs by preventing air and heat leaks. A steel front door is durable and affordable, and wrought iron designs add elegance to the entryway. Fiberglass doors also provide insulation, and they are resistant to moisture and rust.
Whether you’re installing a new door or replacing an existing one, it’s important to consider the cost of labor and materials before hiring a contractor for the job. It’s also important to ask the right questions when requesting quotes or estimates.
Installing a new door requires permits and structural engineering plans for the wall, which can increase the price of the project by up to $1,200. Other costs include cutting a doorway in an exterior wall and converting a window into a door. The average homeowner spends between $270 and $1,300 to replace an interior door.