Door installation cost can be a big expense, but there are ways to keep the costs down. For example, use an existing frame if possible to save money.
Also, consider using solid-core doors instead of hollow-core doors. Solid core doors are filled with wood particles and foam, while hollow-core doors have slats inside.
Cost of the Door
When it comes to door installation, the costs can quickly add up. For example, if you’re installing an insulated door with wrought iron sidelights or smart locks, the cost can run up to $10,000. However, replacing an exterior door is a great way to increase your home’s value and energy efficiency.
If your doors are rusty, cracked, warped, or dented, it’s time for a replacement. In addition to improving your home’s curb appeal, new doors help prevent drafts, pests, and excess heat from entering your home.
If you’re replacing an interior door, the cost will depend on whether it’s a pre-hung door or a slab door. You may also need to pay for the installation of a rough frame, if necessary. Other expenses include premium hinges, knobs, and hardware. You’ll also need to budget for disposal of the old door and any other work that may be needed to install your new door. This includes closing up the existing opening and cutting a new one into a load-bearing wall.
Cost of the Hardware
The type of hardware you choose can have a significant impact on the total cost of your door installation project. Hinges and locks range from relatively plain and inexpensive to ornate and high-end, with prices reflecting the complexity of design and materials used. Interior doors often require basic knobs, while exterior doors may need keyed locks or security systems.
Another factor that impacts the overall price is whether you’re installing a slab door or a pre-hung door. A slab door has two sides and a top that are attached to the frame via hinges. A pre-hung door is already attached to the frame, and it’s typically more expensive than a slab door.
The final factor that influences the total cost of your door installation is how much the project will add to your home’s value. For example, a replacement door can be a great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency or increase security. A professional contractor can help you find the right door for your home’s needs and budget.
Cost of the Installation
The cost of installing a door is largely dependent on whether you’re swapping out a same-sized door into an existing opening or you’re replacing both the frame and the wall. The latter is typically more expensive because it involves a larger amount of construction work, especially if the wall is load-bearing.
It also depends on the type of material you choose for your door. For example, steel and fiberglass doors require less maintenance than solid wood doors, which are prone to warping and damage from Houston’s hot climate. In addition, the style and size of your new door will impact the cost.
Installation costs include labor, which is the most significant expense. On average, a local contractor charges between $40 and $90 per hour, while an experienced handyperson charges less. You’ll also need to pay for any materials, including hinges and hardware, that you haven’t already purchased. Removing and disposing of an old door is another expense that adds up quickly.
Cost of the Permit
Depending on your local laws and ordinances, you may need to obtain a permit for your door installation project. A permit will ensure that your work complies with local codes and regulations, as well as protect you from fines if an inspector happens to notice your work without a permit. Many homeowners hire a contractor to handle the permit application process for them. This service can cost $300 to $2,000, excluding the permit fees. The permit fee depends on the type of permit you need and the size of your project.
The average cost of installing a new interior or exterior door is $700 to $1,400. This includes closing up the old opening, cutting a new opening, framing, and hanging the door. You’ll also need to pay a structural engineer to draw up the plans for you if you’re moving a door into a load-bearing wall or converting a window to a door. In addition to the cost of the permit, you’ll also need to register your contractor with your local government for a $150 fee.