
ho installs French doors? Learn which pros to hire, how they do it, and what installation costs to expect so you can plan with confidence.
Replacing a door frame costs an average of $400
On average, the cost to replace a door frame ranges from $200 to $550 with an average cost of $400.
Wood frame options cost more to replace than non-wood frames.
Professional labor costs between $230 and $380 per project.
New doors enhance privacy, functionality, and overall home aesthetics.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
The average cost to replace a door frame falls between $200 and $550, with an average of $400 for a complete installation. Several variables influence the final price, including your door material selection, frame condition, and whether you're handling a straightforward replacement or a more complex installation.
Understanding what drives the cost of replacing a door frame helps with budget planning. Several key elements contribute to the total expense of your project.
The frame itself represents a significant portion of your costs. Wooden door frames run between $630 and $780 when including installation, while non-wood alternatives like vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass cost $360 to $510.
Different door styles have varying price points based on their unique requirements and materials. Here's what you can expect to pay for just the frames of various door types.
| Door Type | Frame Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Standard interior | $120–$230 |
| Pocket door | $200–$340 |
| Barn door track kits | $170–$300 |
| French door | $180–$240 |
| Sliding door | $350 |
Standard interior door frames represent the most economical option, suitable for bedrooms and bathrooms. Pocket doors, which slide into wall cavities, require specialized framing that costs more. Barn doors utilize exposed track systems mounted above the doorway. French doors feature two panels that may include glass elements. Sliding doors, often used for closets, come with track systems and cost an average of $350 for the frame kit.
Each type comes with unique installation considerations. Standard doors offer straightforward installation, while pocket doors may require wall modifications. Barn door installations need sturdy wall mounting for the track system. French doors must be perfectly aligned to function properly. Sliding doors require level track installation for smooth operation.
Professional installation ensures your door functions properly for years to come. Contractors charge an average of $70 per hour for door installation, though rates can range up to $125 per hour in some markets. The total labor cost falls between $230 and $380 per door frame.
A professional door installation takes an average of three hours for an experienced installer. This timeframe can vary based on several factors, including:
Door type and complexity
Condition of the existing opening
Whether wall modifications are needed
Amount of finishing work required
Removal and disposal of old materials
Professional installation includes removing the existing door (if applicable), preparing the opening, installing the new frame and door, adding hardware, and ensuring proper operation. Labor costs may run higher in metropolitan areas compared to rural locations due to regional price variations.
Additional materials such as fasteners, shims, flashing, and caulking add $10 to $20 per door. Disposing of old materials costs $50 to $100 per ton at local facilities, or a minimum of $60 for professional junk removal services.
If wall repairs become necessary, costs vary by damage type:
Minor drywall issues: $20–$100
Water damage repairs: $50–$200
Fixing large cracks: $200–$500
Before committing to a full replacement, consider whether repairs might address your door issues more economically.
| Factor | Repair | Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $50–$150 | $200–$550 |
| Time Investment | Varies by repair | 3 hours |
| Best For | Minor issues | Significant damage |
Door repairs cost between $50 and $150, depending on the issue. Simple repairs like fixing loose hinges, adjusting strike plates, or replacing hardware often make sense for doors that are otherwise in good condition. Repair is particularly appropriate when dealing with custom or high-quality doors that would be expensive to replace.
Full replacement becomes necessary when dealing with rotted wood, significant cracks, splits, or warping that affect functionality. The replacement process takes an average of three hours for a professional and provides a completely fresh start with a properly functioning door.
Get multiple quotes from different installation professionals to compare pricing.
Select less expensive frame materials like aluminum or vinyl instead of solid wood.
Consider whether your existing frame can be preserved rather than replaced entirely.
Carefully remove old trim and hardware for potential reuse if still in good condition.
Handle demolition and cleanup yourself to reduce labor hours.
Look for sales or clearance items at home improvement centers.
Install multiple doors simultaneously to potentially negotiate volume discounts.
Choose standard door sizes rather than custom dimensions whenever possible.
Many homeowners consider DIY installation to save on labor costs, but this approach has both advantages and limitations compared to professional installation.
If you choose the DIY route, expect to spend a minimum of $150 on tools and materials beyond the door itself. This approach works well for homeowners with moderate carpentry skills, especially when installing pre-hung doors that come with the frame already attached.
Professional installation offers several advantages, including expertise in proper alignment, access to specialized tools, and faster completion. Hiring a local door installation pro is particularly valuable for complex installations involving pocket doors, barn doors, or situations requiring structural modifications. They can also ensure proper fit and function, which is crucial for doors that will be used frequently.
| Consideration | DIY Approach | Professional Installation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Minimum $150 for tools/materials | $400 average total |
| Time Required | Varies by experience | 3 hours |
| Skill Level Needed | Moderate carpentry skills | Professional expertise |
| Best For | Simple pre-hung door projects | Complex installations |
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
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