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How Much Does It Cost to Install French Doors in 2025?
Normal Range: $2,000 - $5,000
French door installation costs an average of $3,500
How we get this data
Highlights
On average, most homeowners spend between $2,000 and $5,000 on the cost to install French doors, with an average installation cost of $3,500.
Material selection, door configuration, and installation location significantly influence final pricing.
These elegant doors enhance living spaces with abundant natural light and sophisticated design elements.
Consider allocating funds for essential accessories and regular maintenance to maximize your investment.
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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
On average, expect to spend between $2,000 and $5,000 on the cost to install French doors, with the average project landing at $3,500. Premium installations featuring custom dimensions or high-end materials may reach $6,000 or higher. Your total depends on door configuration, materials, additional features, and labor. Understanding the various elements that influence pricing helps ensure you're prepared for this elegant home improvement that blends beauty with functionality.
French Door Installation Cost Factors
The final price tag for your French door project depends on several key elements. Door configuration, material quality, and placement all play crucial roles in determining your total investment. Let's examine these factors in detail.
Type of French Doors
The configuration you select significantly affects your overall expense. Here's how various styles compare:
| Door Type | Description | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Single in-swing | One door swinging inward | $300–$1,000 |
| Double in-swing/out-swing | Two panels swinging in or out | $400–$4,000 |
| Single sliding | Single panel sliding horizontally | $800–$2,000 |
| Center-hinged | Hinged in center, one fixed panel | $1,000–$4,000 |
| Telescoping sliding | Multiple sliding panels | $1,500–$6,000 |
| Custom | Bespoke sizes & designs | $3,000–$10,000 |
Many homeowners gravitate toward double door configurations for their classic appeal and generous opening. Custom options command premium prices due to their tailored dimensions and unique design elements.
Interior vs. Exterior Installation
The intended location of your French doors substantially impacts both cost and construction requirements:
| Installation Location | Cost Range | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Interior | $400–$2,000 | Less weather resistance needed |
| Exterior | $1,000–$4,000 | Enhanced durability and weatherproofing |
Exterior installations demand more robust construction to withstand environmental challenges and provide adequate security. Interior applications focus more on aesthetics and space division without the same durability requirements.
Size and Dimensions
Non-standard measurements require additional materials and potentially structural modifications. Wider openings often translate to higher costs, particularly when custom framing becomes necessary. Standard sizing offers the most economical option, while oversized or unique dimensions can significantly increase your investment.
Labor and Installation
Expect to pay professionals hourly rates from $70 to $120, with total labor amounting to $140 to $600, depending on project complexity. A standard installation requires several hours of skilled work, including precise measurements, frame preparation, and hardware mounting. Quality installation ensures proper operation, energy efficiency, and structural integrity.
Add-On Features
Personalization options enhance both function and appearance, but add to your total French door expenditure:
| Feature | Cost Range | Purpose/Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Custom window treatments | $50–$2,000 | Personalized light and privacy control |
| Decorative hardware | $50–$400 | Enhanced aesthetics and operation |
| Low-emissivity glass | $350–$1,000 | Better thermal performance |
| Multipoint lock system | $50–$200 | Increased security features |
| Shatterproof film | $300–$400 | Impact resistance and safety |
| Tinting | $80–$2,000 | UV protection and glare reduction |
| Paint or finishing | $150–$200 per side | Custom appearance and weather protection |
Security-focused additions like multipoint locks provide practical benefits, while decorative elements enhance visual appeal and complement your home's design aesthetic.
Material
Your choice of material affects both initial investment and long-term performance:
| Material | Cost Range | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $500–$2,000 | Budget-friendly, minimal upkeep | Fewer style options |
| Wood | $500–$4,000 | Traditional beauty, customizable | Requires periodic maintenance |
| Fiberglass | $800–$5,000 | Excellent insulation, durable | Higher initial investment |
| Aluminum | $650–$3,000 | Contemporary look, slim profile | Less insulating properties |
| Clad-wood | $2,500–$5,500 | Combines durability with beauty | Premium pricing |
| Steel | $650–$4,000 | Superior security, strength | Potential for corrosion in humid areas |
Wood requires more frequent maintenance compared to synthetic alternatives. Steel provides exceptional security but may require additional care in coastal or high-humidity regions.
Ongoing French Door Costs
Your investment continues beyond initial installation. Understanding long-term expenses helps create a comprehensive budget for your project.
Maintenance
Periodic upkeep ensures lasting performance and appearance. Depending on material and finish, maintenance expenses range from $40 to $300. Wooden components require regular sealing to prevent moisture damage, while synthetic materials need only basic cleaning. DIY maintenance can reduce costs, though professional services may provide superior results for specialized finishes.
Operating Costs
The substantial glass area in French doors can influence your home's thermal efficiency. Energy-efficient glass options and quality weather sealing help minimize temperature transfer. Homes in extreme climates particularly benefit from investing in insulating features that maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and potentially reduce utility expenses.
Repairs
Maintenance needs vary based on usage patterns and environmental factors. Addressing dents may cost up to $300, while hardware issues run up to $100 per repair. Glass replacement ranges between $100 and $200, with complete door component replacement potentially reaching $200 to $1,000. Regular inspection and maintenance often prevent more extensive repairs.
Insurance
Some insurance considerations may apply to exterior French door installations, particularly regarding security features and break-in prevention. Consult with your insurance provider about specific policy implications before installation.
Budgeting for French Door Installation
Consider vinyl materials: This option delivers affordability and minimal maintenance requirements for budget-conscious projects.
Choose simple configurations: Opt for single-panel designs rather than multi-door systems to reduce costs.
Stick with standard dimensions: Custom sizes require specialized manufacturing and installation techniques.
Explore interior applications: These cost substantially less than exterior installations.
Gather multiple estimates: Comparing proposals from several local French door installation contractors helps identify the best value.
Look for seasonal promotions: Some retailers offer periodic discounts on materials and installation.
Balance efficiency with cost: Higher-quality insulation may offset energy expenses over time.
Handle preparation work yourself: Removing existing fixtures and clearing the workspace can reduce labor costs.
DIY French Door Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
Self-installation can reduce immediate expenses but requires appropriate skills and equipment. Material costs range from $300 to $4,500, depending on door quality and style. The project demands precise measurements, specialized tools, and careful attention to detail. Improper installation may lead to operational issues, weatherproofing failures, or security vulnerabilities.
Self-installation works best for straightforward replacements using standard sizes. Complex projects benefit from professional expertise to ensure proper fit and function.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
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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