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Fixing a hole in a door varies in cost based on the damage. You can fill holes up to a ½ inch wide with wood putty or auto-body filler for about $5 to $15. Allow the filler to dry entirely before smoothing it out and painting. To remove 1/8-inch off the edge of a door in an existing frame, repair prices start at around $15. If you need to replace or reframe the door, costs can increase significantly, averaging $1,100 and potentially reaching $6,000 or more for certain door styles.

To refurbish an old wooden front door:

1. Remove it from the hinges and lay it flat.

2. Remove all hardware and existing finishes to prepare it for sanding.

3. Sand the door, then clear off sawdust and debris.

4. Apply stain and let it dry.

5. Apply exterior varnish.

6. Reinstall all hardware and rehang the door on its hinges.

Wood filler is easy to use and can repair cracks, holes, and dents in as little as two hours. First, put the wood filler directly into the hole you want to fill and rub it in a circular motion. Use an angled putty knife to scrape across the surface to smooth out excess filler. Once the hole is filled, use sandpaper to smooth the surface.

You can repair a doorframe without a full replacement by addressing only the damaged areas. Start by identifying the damaged sections and applying a high-quality wood filler or patching compound. This process involves cleaning the affected area, applying the filler to fill gaps, and reinforcing weak spots with replacement components when necessary. Restoring the frame in this manner preserves the door’s function and structural integrity.

A full doorframe replacement is necessary when damage extends across the entire frame or when severe rot compromises its structural integrity. In cases of widespread deterioration or when decay is present in multiple areas, replace the whole frame to make it secure and functional and ensure proper alignment. Repaired sections won’t provide the lasting durability that a complete replacement offers.