Door Installation Cost Factors
It’s no secret; doors provide safety, security, and style for a home. But many different elements will influence the cost of your door installation, so check out these helpful notes to help keep your budget in check.
Interior vs. Exterior Doors
A no-frills interior door costs as little as $150, but choosing a solid wood interior door with special features or design details can drive the price up to as much as $500. With installation, you’re looking at a typical cost of $375 to $1,125.
Exterior doors have a bigger role to play in your home, from providing security to withstanding whatever Mother Nature may bring. They generally cost a little more to install. All-in, you can expect exterior door installation costs to total $550 to $2,000 and up. It can even exceed $10,000 if your door is a high-end, custom creation requiring special expertise at installation.
If your renovation plans require a new location for your door, prepare to spend more on modifications. Contractors will likely be able to tackle drywall and electrical changes, but it will add an average of around $75 more per hour in labor charges.
Door Size
In addition to the range of styles on the market, doors also come in standard measurements. The closer you stick to the standard door sizes, the more predictable the cost. Custom and oversized doors are an option as well, but the unique design work will raise the price.
For example, both interior and exterior doors commonly measure 80 inches high and range between 24 and 36 inches wide. Closet doors may be as small as 24 inches wide and your front and back exterior doors range between 36 and 42 inches to accommodate wider items.
In most cases, the larger the door and door opening, the higher the cost. A standard 36-by-80-inch interior door will cost $150 to $700 and an 80-by-48-inch door will cost between $400 and $1,600.
French doors are a great example of an oversized design, averaging about 72 inches wide. French door installation costs between $2,000 and $5,000 on average depending on the door material. The added price accounts for the custom-built frame cut from the wall as well as the glass panels associated with the design.
Let's look at a few popular door sizes and what to expect from their installation costs.
| Door Height | Door Width | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 80" | 24" – 32" | $150 – $700 |
| 80" | 36" – 48" | $400 – $1,600 |
| 80" | 60" – 72" | $400 – $4,500 |
| 80" | 72"+ | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Door Material
High-end, specialty materials will always cost more than basic materials. For example, a hollow-core door made from composite wood costs as little as $40. This is commonly used on interior doors, but if you want to upgrade to a solid wood model, you’ll spend around $200 on the low end. On the opposite end of the spectrum, an intricate wrought iron exterior door can cost as much as $7,000 in materials alone.
Door Style
Doors go well beyond your standard single door. There are actually a lot of styles—but that impacts the overall price of the job. Some styles (like French doors, sliding doors, and bifold doors) are a little more costly because they come with more complicated installations and higher material costs. By upgrading your door, a small $200 job can quickly turn into a job that costs thousands.
Jamb, Hinges, Knobs, and Locks
When you buy a pre-hung door, it will include some of the hardware you need, but you’ll probably have to purchase knobs and locks. Slab doors will also need jambs and hinges. Take a look at the pricing for each:
Jambs: $150–$250; including labor and materials
Hinges: $2.50–$30; you’ll need two or three, depending on your door
Knobs and locks: $10–$300; these come in handy sets
You may also want to consider installing a doorway transition strip to minimize noise between interior rooms. Customized varieties of jambs, hinges, and locks will also add to the total door cost. For example, the cost of adding deadbolt locks to your door ranges between $50 and $100.
Framing
The cost to replace a door frame—or add a new one from scratch—ranges from $200 to $700 depending on materials, size, and placement in your home. You can also purchase a frame separate from the door for between $150 and $300, not including the cost of installation. You'll likely only run into the scenario if you are either adding an old door to a new frame or replacing a damaged door frame.
You'll also pay more for custom-made door frames that either accommodate custom doors, show off unique trim, or are made of custom materials. Sliding door frame kits, for example, cost an average of $350.
Labor Costs
Your total labor fees will depend on two things: the work required and how long the job takes. Average labor costs for a local door installation contractor will run you between $40 and $90 per hour. If you choose an experienced handyperson, the fees are typically less, about $30 to $40 per hour.
Door Frame and Jamb Costs
The cost for a front door replacement (or any other type of door replacement, for that matter) depends on if there’s an existing, correctly-sized jamb and frame. Are you swapping out a same-sized door in an existing frame, installing new parts, or something in between?
Cost to Install or Replace a New Frame and Jamb
What’s the difference between a door frame and a jamb? That’s easy. A door jamb is part of the door frame: it’s the flat surface that runs vertically up either side. If you need to replace a door frame or jamb, that’ll set you back about $250 plus possible disposal fees.
Now, if your existing door frame has rot or damage, you’ll likely need a new one. A “rough frame” (that’s what door pros call the overall frame that allows space for the door itself) has a wide range of costs. Expect to pay between $200 to $650, depending on details like whether the door will be load-bearing or if it’ll need electrical wiring rerouted.
Cost to Replace a Door in an Existing Jamb or Frame
If you’re replacing an interior door for a new one that’s the same size, the price ranges between $40 and $500 without labor costs. Exterior doors jump in price from $150 to $6,000 or more without labor, depending on the door’s materials and its extra features or accessories.
Cost to Fit a New Door System Into an Old Opening
Nothing says “instant upgrade” like a new exterior door, but this is one case where you may need to change the whole door system. That can mean adjusting your existing space or opening to fit your new door and make your entryway shine. For this type of installation, you can expect to pay an average of $900, but it’s worth it if you’re hoping to maximize your return on investment.
For any door project, you’ll need to change an existing opening if it needs expansion or reshaping to accommodate the new door. Many older homes, for example, don’t meet today's doorway standards, so they may need some finessing to be able to welcome a modern door system.
And remember, exterior doors often have extra features. You’ll pay more if you decide to add a portico, side windows, or transoms.
Price of Doors by Style
The style of door is perhaps one of the largest factors that will determine your overall door installation costs. Standard single doors and interior doors are budget-friendly, but you’ll have to splurge on specialty exterior doors. Here’s what you can expect to pay, including labor and materials.
| Door Style | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Single Door | $200 – $1,800 |
| Double Doors | $750 – $5,000 |
| French Doors | $600 – $5,800 |
| Sliding Doors | $500 – $4,500 |
| Bifold Doors | $150 – $13,800+ |
| Fire-Rated Doors | $400 – $1,300 |
| Bulkhead Cellar Doors | $1,000 – $6,000 |
Standard Single Door
Installing a door costs $200 to $1,800 if it’s a standard door with a basic installation. Though a standard single door is nothing snazzy, it gets the job done.
Double Doors
Double doors cost between $750 and $5,000 to install, though they can cost more depending on the design. In particular, costs can soar if you want to install exterior double doors in a load-bearing wall. That project is notably labor-intensive.
French Doors
French doors have several smaller glass panes that act as a full-view window. Expect to spend anywhere between $600 and $5,800 to install this type of door into an existing frame. You’ll often find French doors installed as double doors, especially in historic homes, but you can install a single French door, which would cost less.
Sliding Doors
Installing a sliding door costs anywhere from $500 to $4,500. On average, most homeowners spend $2,150, but it depends on the type of sliding door. A basic model can cost as little as $300 before installation, but you’ll spend more on specialty models including soundproof doors, double pane glass doors, hurricane impact doors, and automatic sliding doors.
Bifold Doors
Bifold doors, also known as accordion doors or folding doors, have a huge range of prices depending on the purpose. To install the kind of accordion door you’d use on an interior closet, expect to spend anywhere from $150 to $500 (or as little as $50 if you install the door yourself).
Exterior bifold doors cost significantly more to install. Expect to spend $4,000 to $12,000 or more on the type of folding glass doors you’d use on a patio entrance, and an additional $600 to $1,800 on labor.
Fire-Rated Doors
Fire-rated doors typically cost $400 to $1,300 to install. These doors generally have 45 minutes to three hours of fire resistance. The better rated, the more it’s going to cost. Keep in mind, this type of door may actually be a building code requirement, so leave some room in your budget if necessary. Always check with your local building codes and HOA when deciding whether you should install a fire door in your home.
Bulkhead Cellar Doors
Bulkhead doors are often used as storm doors to cellars and basements. The cost of a bulkhead door alone tends to cost $600 to $1,200, and most homeowners spend anywhere from $1,100 to $6,000 all-in. Even though installation can significantly raise costs, it’s typically money well spent. Bulkhead door installation requires precision to avoid leaks and other issues that could lead to a flooded basement and thousands of dollars worth of water damage. In this case, it’s best to go with the pros.
Cost of Door by Materials
Door materials play a role in their style, longevity, and security level. You'll pay the most for a solid wood or wrought-iron door and the least for composite wood doors, often used inside your home.
| Door Material | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Composite wood | $40 – $500 |
| Steel | $100 – $1,000 |
| Aluminum | $100 – $2,000 |
| Fiberglass | $150 – $5,000 |
| Wood | $200 – $5,000 |
| Wrought iron | $1,500 – $7,000 |
Composite Wood Doors
Composite and engineered doors offer the look of wood without the hefty price tag, which makes them very popular, especially for interior doors. They cost between $40 and $500 on average and are the humble, reliable workhorses in the world of doors.
Steel Doors
You might choose steel doors for their durability and affordability. Steel doors cost anywhere from $150 to $1,400. Steel resists weather well, but will need attention if rust should form. Pro tip: If you want to add sleek style to your steel door, consider glass accents (though this will likely increase the price by a few hundred dollars).
Aluminum Doors
If you live in a house that lacks natural light, such as a bungalow style home, choose an aluminum door and soak up that Vitamin D. Another asset? Aluminum-framed doors are strong. In fact, if you like, they’re strong enough to add in large windows without adding the extra bulk of a thick frame.
This type of door costs $100 to $2,000, depending on whether you’re installing an interior or exterior door.
Fiberglass Doors
If you’re interested in saving money on monthly energy bills, an efficient fiberglass door may be a fantastic fit. Fiberglass doors expand and contract with the seasons and temperature to keep your climate-controlled air on the inside, just where you want it.
But just because they’re practical doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style. You can find smooth or wood grain textured options to add a bit of flair. Most fiberglass door installations cost between $250 and $2,000.
Wooden Doors
Wooden doors remain popular year after year because, well, they’re classic. They come in a wide variety of styles and offer a timeless look. Low-cost interior wood doors start at $200, while you might pay up to $5,000 for high-end exterior doors.
Wrought Iron Doors
Wrought-iron doors, with their imposing elegance or intricate designs, are the home style stars of social media, and for a good reason. They can add a ton of character to the entrance of your abode.
Most wrought iron doors are made of a steel base and are then customized with wrought iron, glass, or wood details. Wrought iron doors start at $1,500, but can run you up to $7,000 depending on size and personalization.
Additional Costs to Consider
When you envision your ideal door design, remember to calculate the extra features into your door installation costs. You'll need to take the old door away and customize both the door and your home to fit its design.
Removal and Disposal of Existing Doors
Removing the old door from its hinges and hauling it away will add to your door professional's estimate. Overall, expect to pay between $40 and $200 extra depending on the door design. Interior doors are often easier to remove and cost between $40 and $100. On the other hand, add between $70 and $200 to the total cost of installing a new exterior door.
Lastly, add an average of $60 for the cost of junk removal—though some pros will include the cost to haul away the old door in their price.
Solid Core vs. Hollow Core Doors
Not to be confused with a solid wood door, solid core doors are altogether different. They have an interior filled with wood particles and foam. A hollow core door, on the other hand, has a slat system inside that looks kind of like a honeycomb.
If you’re looking to save money, a hollow core door (perfect for a linen or craft closet) is a good choice, even if it’s not quite as durable as a solid core door. Hollow core doors are most often used for interiors. Both solid and hollow core doors cost about $100 to $300 per installation, but the hollow core option will likely be a bit easier on your wallet.
Custom Doors
Think of a custom door like a piece of jewelry for your home, and a gateway to your style. But as with anything personalized, it comes with a higher price tag. Custom door installations range from $500 to $10,000 or more if you add sidelights, transoms, or security systems. If all you need is a basic install, doors cost between $200 to $1,800, and your pro probably needs about three hours to do the job.
Wall Materials
If you’re installing a door in a brand new location or changing the size of an existing door, you’ll have to pay additional costs for working on the wall. This could include everything from drywall work to masonry, electrical, or even plumbing. Expect it to add significant costs, since you may even have to hire additional contractors. For a professional job, here’s what to expect:
Drywall installation costs: $50–$100 per hour
Repairing a brick wall costs: $20–$40 per square foot
Electrical work costs: $50–$100 per hour
Plumbing costs: $45–$200 per hour
Pre-Hung vs. Slab Doors
When it comes to materials, you'll pay less for a slab door compared to a pre-hung door. Pre-hung indicates that the door already has attached hinges and is, therefore, ready to be hung. On the other hand, it will take longer—and thus could cost more in the long run—to install a slab door, so it all comes down to preference and customization in the end.
Slab doors cost between $200 and $1,800 on average, including installation while pre-hung doors cost between $300 and $2,400. Since doors come in standard sizes for most pre-cut holes and door frames, it's a bit easier to find a pre-hung model that fits your space.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Door Yourself?
A simple swap of an old door for a new one is the perfect job for a DIYer because you’re only changing the door, not the frame or jamb. You likely have all the tools needed already in your tool box, and you’ll only have to spend on the door and installation materials (like hinges, knobs, and jambs). This could cost less than $100 if you choose a budget-friendly door—just make sure it’s the right size for the frame to avoid sticking or letting air and moisture in or out.
Unfortunately, door installation isn’t always the most straightforward DIY. If your desired door doesn’t fit into the existing door frame, you’ll need to start cutting into the wall. At minimum, you’ll probably have to do some drywall installation, but it gets even more complicated when you’re installing an exterior door—especially if it’s in a load-bearing wall. In most cases, you’ll need a permit, so it’s best to hire a local door installer.
DIY vs. Hiring a Door Contractor
When you hire a door contractor, expect to spend $40 to $90 per hour on labor. Depending on the type of door, labor can account for more than half the cost of the job. Either way, a job well done is often a job that saves you money in the long run. If you go with a qualified pro, you won’t have to invest in fixing costly mistakes.
Tips to Save Money on Door Installation Costs
If you’re working on a budget, there are some ways you can reduce the cost of your door installation. While you want a quality door and quality work, there are some places you can skimp.
Do Multiple Projects at Once
Some contractors will cut you a deal if you’re installing multiple doors. Unless you have to replace a door immediately for safety reasons or because it’s completely deteriorated, wait to tackle this project until you can upgrade a few doors at once or lump it in with another home project.
Choose a Budget-Friendly Door
It’s important to choose a door that can withstand continuous use over the years, but there are budget-friendly options that don’t sacrifice quality. Instead of opting for an intricate door with custom details, go for a basic door made out of the same material.
Hire a Handyperson for Simpler Installations
You don’t always need to hire a professional door installer for a door installation. If you’re replacing an interior door and it’s a simple installation, you can typically hire a local handyperson. The average handyperson charges between $30 to $40 per hour, whereas a professional door contractor can cost twice as much.
Mariel Loveland contributed to this piece.
