Door installation is a practical investment in your home’s security and visual appeal. However, there are many factors that influence the cost of a new door installation.
The cost of a new door depends on whether you’re swapping a same-sized door into an existing frame or adjusting the opening to fit a larger door. The cost can also skyrocket if you go for unique add-ons like carved wood features and glass paneling.
Cost of the Door
Obviously, the cost of the door itself is one of the biggest factors in your total door installation costs. However, the type of door and any add-ons will also impact the price. For example, a solid wood door will cost more upfront than a hollow-core or metal door, but it will last longer and may be worth the extra investment.
Another major factor in the cost of a new door is whether it’s a slab or pre-hung door. Slab doors require your installer to notch out a space for the hinges and take more time to hang, so they cost more than pre-hung doors.
Removing and hauling away the old door is also an additional expense. You may be able to save on labor costs by doing this yourself, but doors and frames can be heavy and cumbersome, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals. You should also consider the cost of any additional trim that you’ll need to install around your new door.
Cost of the Hardware
The hardware that goes with your door can add a significant amount to the total cost. For example, a no-frills interior door costs $150 to install, while more complicated doors like French or sliding doors will increase that number significantly. Other types of doors like bifold doors or pocket doors also have higher installation costs, as do unique options such as a soundproof door or a fire-rated door.
When it comes to exterior doors, you’ll need to factor in the cost of a new door frame and jamb if you’re replacing a existing one. This is a more complex task than installing a door in an existing wall opening, and it can add up to $1,500.
The costs for the doors themselves vary widely, from solid wood to metal, and from frosted glass to mirrored panels. You’ll also want to consider the unique features that you may choose, such as a portico or side windows.
Cost of the Installation
Door installation is a complex process, but hiring an expert can save you time and money. It can also prevent damage to your home. The cost of installing a new door depends on the style, materials, and framing. Some styles of doors require adjusting the existing frame or opening to fit, which can add to labor charges.
Interior doors are less expensive to install than exterior ones, but the price of installing a high-end pocket door or French door with additional features and design details can be much higher. Solid-core doors are also more expensive to install than hollow-core options.
If you plan to do the work yourself, be aware that the removal of an old door can take several hours and will probably cost between $40 and $200. Some professionals include this in their price quotes, while others may not. You’ll also want to consider the cost of hauling away the old door and the debris.
Cost of the Add-Ons
There are a number of add-ons and upgrades that can increase the overall cost of door installation. For example, installing a french or sliding door will generally cost more than a single slab of wood. Other options include adding a deadbolt lock, installing an entryway transition strip to minimize noise between rooms, and choosing specialty types of jambs or hinges.
These can range in price from a few dollars for a basic interior doorway trim to hundreds of dollars for unique accents and custom design features. Similarly, solid core doors are much more expensive than hollow core doors that have an interior filled with foam and wood particles.
Replacing an existing door is more expensive than installing one during new construction. This is because it involves removing the old door and fixing the frame, which can be time-consuming and require costly materials like drywall and insulation. You can save money by using a pre-hung door that fits into the existing frame and avoids any framing work. Limiting add-ons to simple glass paneling or carved wood accents can also help cut costs.