Why Are Front Doors So Expensive? (Find Out Now!)
Your front door will be the staple point of your home’s curb appeal, It’s also going to be one of its many defenses against the weather and unwanted visitors. This is why it is so important to get the best fit for your property in terms of style and performance.
It should come as no surprise that there are so many unique options from which you can choose when it comes to getting a door for your home’s entryway. Regardless of any decisions you make, you should expect to pay a decent amount, including the cost of the materials, installation, and any other services you may need.
There are so many factors that go into the overall cost of an entry door, including the door size, style, material, and any additional features. You’ll also have to take into consideration the labor costs involved with preparing and installing the new door and the overall cost of the door based on the brand you choose.
In this article, we are going to dive into everything you need to know about front entry doors, so you can make the best decision for your home.
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Front Door Materials
As you may have guessed, the type of door you choose for your home will affect how much it costs. Arguably, it will have the biggest impact on the overall price tag. Some materials will require more preparation—like sanding and refinishing wood doors—while others will be ready to install right away. Here are some of the most common materials for entry doors ranging from least to most expensive on average:
- Vinyl
- Steel
- Aluminum
- Fiberglass
- Composite
- Wood
- Wrought Iron
Door Styles
A door isn’t just a practical addition to a property; it’s also a huge part of your home’s aesthetic. That said, there are many different types of door styles, which is important when it comes to the overall cost. There are plenty of options from which you can choose based on your personal preferences and the style of your entire home. These door styles include:
- Arched doors are incredibly versatile and can fit well with any style of home. They are known by their soft edges and eye-catching designs. While their beauty is unmatched, they tend to cost more since they are completely custom and made to order.
- Craftsman doors incorporate stylish glass panes at the top and ornate trim or molding along the rest of the door. These types of doors are completely customizable, so the cost will depend mostly on your personal decisions.
- Modern doors are very minimalistic in terms of lines and overall design. That said, they tend to be very large and can have additional features like frosted glass or raised panels. These details will truly make your entry door stand out, but it will also make it cost more.
- Rustic doors are used on more traditional homes that are usually made from brick, stone, or wood. The doors themselves are usually made from wood, as well, making them one of the more expensive options on the market.
- Traditional doors are classified by their classic and timeless design. They feature softer lines and charming accents that are ornate yet refined, which makes them ideal for any type of home. Since they are so customizable, their price will depend on your preferences.
Door Hardware
In addition to the door itself, there’s a good chance you’re going to want some extra features, too. These include things like glass panels, intricate designs, security features, sidelights, hinges, dog doors, locks, knobs, and so much more. These additions can cost as little as $10 or go all the way up to $12,000 depending on how many customizations you want done.
Door Brand
As with any other home remodeling product, different brands will charge different amounts for their products. When shopping around for your new door, it’s important to have an idea of your budget, so you can find a brand that fits both your needs and your price range. Some of the most common front entry door brands include:
- Liberty
- Masonite
- Simpson
- Stanley Doors
- Therma-Tru
- Weiland
…and many more!
Labor Costs
Finally, you need to consider how much it will cost to install and take care of your door. This includes painting or staining, removing the old door, waterproofing, sealing, modifying the doorway, and more. We’ll go a bit further into the costs of these services below.
Average Cost to Install an Entry Door
Between the door itself and installation costs, you’re going to have to set aside a good amount of money for this project. Prices will vary drastically based on many different factors, but we can give you some average rates, so you can have an idea of what to expect when you go through the process yourself:
- Installation Costs: You will most likely be paying between $400 and $800 to install a single-entry door and between $500 and $1,000 for a double-entry door.
- Additional Modifications: On top of installing the door, you’ll most likely need more work done. Between painting/staining, removing the old door, waterproofing/sealing, and modifying your doorway, you can expect to pay between $80 and $500+.
- Material Costs: The overall cost of the door itself will depend heavily on the material of the door itself. Depending on what type you choose, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $6,000.
How to Shop Smart for Your Front Door
There’s no getting around the expense of buying a new front door, but there are some things you can do to offset a bit of the cost. For starters, you can save money by doing your research and doing what you can to save your old door before completely replacing it. Let’s take a closer look at your options, so you have everything you need to know
Don’t Settle for Your First Pick
The best way to find the best price for your door is to shop around and look for the best price. This involves looking at multiple places before making a final decision, even though you may be tempted to go with the first one you find. On top of overall affordability, many companies will offer discounts and specials, so you can get an even better deal on your new entry door.
Use Local Suppliers
By using local suppliers, you can reduce the cost of your project. Imported wood will cost more, as well as delivery costs, which is why local is always better.
Find a Cheaper Material
Like we said, some door materials are more expensive to install and maintain, which can add up over time. Instead of putting your wallet through that, consider switching to a more cost-effective option. Even though materials like fiberglass, vinyl, and steel are cheaper, they are still durable and can look great with the right finish and accessories.
Stick to Your Budget
When shopping around for a new door, it can be easy to get carried away. Before you begin looking for options, set a budget for yourself and do what you can to stay within the parameters of that budget. This is especially important once you start looking at extras like hardware and any custom options.
Make it a DIY Project
You can severely cut the price of your front door by cutting the labor costs completely. Instead of hiring a contractor, consider painting and sealing your door yourself. You can even hang the door yourself if you have some basic knowledge on the matter. This will be even easier if you’re only replacing the door, not the frame.
Upgrade Your Existing Door
If you’re simply replacing your entry door for style purposes, you may not even have to do it. Instead of replacing your door, consider refurbishing the existing one. You can do this by giving it a fresh coat of paint, installing glass panels, or adding decorative finishes. All these will be much more affordable than replacing the door.
Related Questions
What are the most common types of back doors?
Some of the most common types of back doors include French doors, sliding glass doors, and Dutch doors. Some people also use regular front doors for their back entryways, too.
What is the difference between interior and exterior doors?
Interior and exterior doors will differ in appearance and functionality. Interior doors—like pocket doors, barn doors, and other options—are typically lighter, thinner, and cost less than exterior doors.Exterior doors, on the other hand, require special treatment to stop weathering and elemental damage. Plus, they have to be well-insulated to keep your home safe and comfortable.
Do You Need Exterior Door Installers?
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Final Thoughts on Your Front Door
It’s true that a front door is going to be a big investment, but it’s a worthwhile one that will enhance your home’s curb appeal, protect it from the elements, and secure it against intruders, too.
There are countless unique options from which you can choose for your home that all have varying prices, too. And this is why it’s so important to do your research before you jump into the process. Now that you know a bit more about what affects that price, it’s time to start shopping!
I am a copywriter and editor based in the Las Vegas area with nearly a decade of experience under my belt writing landing pages, cost guides, blog posts, newsletters, case studies, and social media content. I have a degree in Strategic Communication and experience working in both the account and creative spheres. My goal is to always be discovering new interests and bettering myself as a writer and editor along the way.
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