Labor Cost to Remove and Install Exterior Door and Frame

Replacing an old exterior door and frame boosts curb appeal, improves home security, and tightens up energy efficiency. It’s an investment that pays off in comfort and resale value. However, homeowners often wonder how much labor is required. In this guide we will learn about , labor cost to remove and install exterior door and frame. Expect ballpark labor costs in the $300–$800 range for a standard entry door, though more complex projects (double doors, oversized openings, repairs) can push the labor alone toward $1,000 or more. Below, we break down typical labor costs by task and door type, explain the factors that drive prices, and offer expert tips to minimize expenses while getting quality installation.

Typical Labor Cost Ranges

In general, installing a new exterior door involves two main steps: removing the old door/frame and installing the new one. For a straightforward replacement, professional installers often quote labor in the $300–$800 range. For example, one industry source notes that installing a standard pre-hung exterior door usually costs about $300–$800 in labour. Porch.com echoes this, reporting an average labor cost of roughly $500 for removing and installing a new exterior door (ranging from about $200 up to $1,300 for very simple to very complex jobs) pro.porch.com. Specialized situations – like double doors, tall patio sliders, or frame modifications – can add hundreds more to that price. Another analysis finds labor in high-demand regions topping out around $650–$1,200 per door for more complicated installs.

In practice, the total cost also includes materials (the door, hardware, etc.), but focusing just on labor gives homeowners a clearer idea of what professional work costs. The table below compares typical labor-only ranges for different door types in a mid-range installation:

Door Type	Typical Labor Cost Range
Single Front Entry Door	$350 – $900
Double/Pair (French) Doors	$700 – $1,400
Sliding Patio Door	$600 – $1,300
Storm Door	$200 – $450

Table: Typical labor cost to remove old unit and install new exterior door by type

Cost Breakdown by Task

Several discrete tasks make up the total labor cost of door replacement:

• Door Removal: Taking out the existing door and frame usually adds a modest fee. Expect roughly $50–$150 of labor just for removal (some sources say $80–$200 for a standard exterior door). Difficult removals (old paint or rusted hinges) may increase this slightly. 
• New Door Installation: Hanging and fitting the new door is the bulk of the work. Labor for installation typically runs around $200–$600 for a standard exterior door. If the door is heavy (e.g. solid wood) or has complex hardware, labor can be higher. One estimate puts basic exterior door labor at $300–$600 for an average job. 
• Frame or Opening Modifications: If your new door isn’t a perfect fit, the installer may need to resize the rough opening, trim jambs, or add shims. Adjustments like these can add $100–$300 in labor. More extensive structural changes (widening or narrowing the opening) are very labor-intensive and can tack on $200–$1,000 extra. 
• Disposal: Removing and hauling away the old door and frame often incurs a small fee. Typical disposal costs run about $50–$100 on top of labor. (Some contractors include basic cleanup, but others may bill it separately.) 
• Finishing Touches: Simple finishing work like painting or staining the new door, sealing gaps, and installing trim can add labor costs. Budget another $100–$300 if the installer is doing final painting or staining. Often homeowners take care of painting themselves to save money. 

All together, a straightforward replacement (remove old door, install pre-hung new door, minimal carpentry) usually fits in that $300–$800 labor range. However, adding up tasks can quickly increase it (e.g. $100 removal + $500 installation + $150 modifications + $75 disposal = $825). It’s wise to get itemized quotes so you see the breakdown.

Key Factors That Influence Labor Costs

Several variables can raise or lower the labor charge:

• Door Type: Simple single-entry doors cost the least because they fit standard frames. Installing a basic front door is usually straightforward. By contrast, double or French doors require precise alignment of two door panels and hardware on both – this extra care raises labor. Heavy sliding patio doors need special handling (level tracks and balancing panels), so they often cost more labor. Even lighter-weight storm doors can add steps (attaching to existing frame, extra weatherproofing) that bump up labor slightly. 
• Material: The material of the door affects handling time. Solid wood doors are heavy and often need touch-up staining or sanding, which slows down installation. Steel or fiberglass doors are lighter and typically easier to square off, though they require proper sealing at weatherstripping. Custom or specialty doors (custom dimensions, ornate glass, etc.) often need on-site modifications or custom fitting, adding labor. 
• Existing Frame Condition: If the old door frame is in good shape and level, the installer can work quickly. But a warped, rotten, or uneven frame demands extra work. Repairing or replacing a damaged frame or threshold can tack on $100–$400 in labor. In extreme cases (full frame rebuild), that line item alone could exceed $1,000. In short, a turnkey opening saves you money. 
• Permits and Codes: Some localities require permits for door replacement (especially if structural changes are involved). Permit fees usually run $50–$200. If you plan any wall openings or framing changes, include permit costs and inspections in your budget. 
• Additional Features: Energy-efficient upgrades (extra insulation, multi-point locks, Low-E glass inserts) add labor. For example, adding new weatherstripping and thermal caulking can add $50–$150 in labor. Custom trim or decorative hardware installation also takes more time. 
• Geography and Season: Labor rates vary by region. Urban areas and regions with higher costs of living pay more per hour than rural areas. Rates can also rise during the busy renovation season (spring–summer). Scheduling work in the off-season (fall/winter) can sometimes yield lower rates or contractor discounts. 

In summary, the type and condition of the door and opening are the biggest cost drivers. Standard replacement work in an existing opening keeps labor minimal, whereas non-standard doors, damaged frames, or extra features push labor costs higher.

Cost Comparison by Door Type

To illustrate how door style affects labor, consider these typical installations (labor only):

• Front Entry Door (single): A plain single-door entry often costs the least. Labor runs $350–$900 in our example table. 
• Double French Doors: Installing double-leaf French doors requires more alignment work and a larger frame, so labor climbs to roughly $700–$1,400. 
• Patio Sliding Door: Large patio sliders or multi-panel doors are heavy and involve track installation. Expect about $600–$1,300 in labor. 
• Storm Door: These are relatively simple (single, lightweight frames) and usually attach to an existing door frame. Labor is lower, around $200–$450. 

Other examples (not in our table) include security doors and heavy custom designs, which can vary widely. In the Texas-specific data above, for instance, entry doors range $700–$1,800 installed and sliding/French around $900–$3,400 (materials + labor)diyflooringideas.com. (Labor-only is just a portion of these totals.) The key takeaway: bigger, heavier, or more complex doors = more labor.

Tips to Reduce Labor Costs and Find a Good Contractor

While quality installation is crucial, there are ways to save on labor:

• Stick to Standard Sizes: Choosing a standard door size and pre-hung unit avoids custom framing. As one expert notes, selecting a pre-fab door in a common size “to avoid costly custom fabrication” can significantly lower labor. Pre-hung doors (already mounted in a frame) are faster to install than hanging a slab door from scratch. 
• Prepare the Site: Clear the area around the door before the crew arrives – remove furniture, decorations, and any obstacles. This saves time on setup and cleanup. A ready work area means the crew can start promptly and finish faster. 
• Bundle Projects: If you need multiple doors or windows replaced, do them together. Many installers offer discounts for larger jobs. For example, replacing two doors at once may cost far less per door than doing them separately. Even combining door and window work can make each project more cost-effective. 
• Off-Peak Scheduling: Labor demand peaks in spring and summer. Scheduling your replacement in the fall or winter might land you a lower labor rate or special off-season pricing. It never hurts to ask if contractors have seasonal discounts. 
• Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t hire the first bid. Shop around and get at least three estimates from licensed, insured installers. Comparing quotes ensures competitive pricing and helps you spot any unusually high fees. As [American Quality Remodeling] notes, certified professionals bring precision – reducing costly mistakes. A reputable crew can save you money by doing the job right the first time. 
• Watch for Licensing and Insurance: Hire a contractor who is bonded and insured. This won’t usually lower the bid, but it protects you if something goes wrong. A quality installer might charge slightly more per hour, but you’ll avoid hidden costs later (fixing mistakes, compliance issues, etc.). 
• DIY in Moderation: If you’re handy, you might handle parts of the project yourself. For example, you could remove the old door or paint the new one to save on labor time. However, hanging an exterior door well is tricky – many pros advise against a full DIY on critical entry doors because poor installation can cause drafts or security problems. 

By applying these tips, many homeowners trim a few hundred dollars off their labor bill. Always balance cost-savings with the need for a solid, secure installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: How much does it cost to install an exterior door and frame?

  A: Labor costs vary, but a typical range is about $300–$800 per door for removal and installation of a standard exterior door. The average is often near $500. More complex installations (double doors, frame modifications) can push labor toward $1,000 or higher.

   

• Q: What factors increase door labor costs?

  A: Complexity is the biggest factor. Double doors, oversized or custom-sized doors, and heavy patio sliders require more work and thus higher labor. Repairing a damaged frame or altering the wall opening also adds labor. High-end materials and accessories (decorative glass, smart locks, extra insulation) can require extra time. In short, anything beyond a simple swap will raise costs.

   

• Q: How long does it take to replace an exterior door?

  A: A skilled team usually needs several hours. Typical exterior door installations take about 6–7 hours if the frame is in good shape. Pre-hung doors (frame attached) install faster. Major modifications (new frame, widening opening) can add days.

   

• Q: Do I need a permit to replace an exterior door?

  A: It depends on local building codes. Simple replacements in the same opening often don’t require a permit. But if you are enlarging the opening or making structural changes, a permit may be needed. Permit fees (usually $50–$200) should be included in your overall project budget.

   

• Q: How can I ensure I hire a reputable installer?

  A: Check for proper licensing and insurance, look for positive customer reviews, and ask for references. Reputable installers will provide a written quote outlining labor and materials. Avoid unreasonably low bids – as one expert advises, professional certification ensures correct installation and protects warranties.