Understanding door installation costs in Seattle is crucial for homeowners planning upgrades. On average, exterior doors in Seattle range from $500 to $1,900. Interior doors typically cost between $225 and $825. For patio doors, the average price spans from $800 to $4,000. Knowing these costs helps in budgeting and ensures you get the best value for your home improvement projects.
Comparing Seattle Door Prices vs. National Averages Door Prices
When planning for door installation in Seattle, it’s helpful to compare local costs with national averages. Below is a breakdown of average costs for purchasing and installing exterior doors, interior doors, and patio doors.
| Door Type | Seattle Average Cost | National Average Cost |
| Exterior Doors | $3,000 – $7,000 | $2,700 – $6,300 |
| Interior Doors | $1,000 – $3,000 | $900 – $2,700 |
| Patio Doors | $2,000 – $6,000 | $1,800 – $5,400 |
Seattle’s door installation costs are generally higher than the national averages. This difference can be attributed to higher regional labor rates and material costs, which impact overall expenses. Being aware of these variations can help homeowners budget more effectively for their door installation projects. Investing in proper installation may be more expensive, but it’s entirely worth it for benefits like warranties or the leak armor guarantee.
Door Prices by Type
Different types of doors come with varying costs in Seattle. Here is a detailed breakdown of the cost of purchasing and installing various doors:
| Door Type | Seattle Average Cost |
| French Doors | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Fire-rated Doors | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Sliding Doors | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Bifold Doors | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Double Doors | $5,000 – $10,000 |
These costs reflect the price range for each door type, considering standard materials and professional installation. French doors are typically more expensive due to their aesthetic appeal and complexity in installation. Fire-rated doors, necessary for safety between garages and living spaces, have varying costs based on material and rating. Sliding doors and bifold doors provide flexibility and accessibility but differ in installation complexity. Double doors and bulkhead doors require more labor and materials, leading to higher costs. Understanding these prices can help you choose the best options for your home.
Door Prices by Material
Selecting the appropriate material is essential when considering door replacements or new installations in Seattle. Each material offers unique benefits in terms of aesthetics, durability, and cost. Below is a detailed comparison table showcasing the typical price range for doors made from various materials. These prices are based on one door:
| Material | Cost Range |
| Wood | $2,000- $5,000 |
| Composite Wood | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Steel | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Fiberglass | $4,000 – $7,000 |
| Aluminum | $4,000 – $7,000 |
These price ranges are specific to Seattle and reflect the cost for exterior doors, which typically require enhanced features for weather resistance and security. The higher costs associated with materials like wrought iron doors and premium wooden doors reflect their superior durability and design complexity. In contrast, more economical materials such as aluminum doors and composite wood doors provide cost-effective solutions while still maintaining good quality and performance.
When planning a door replacement or installation, it’s also important to consider the door frame and existing door conditions. Installing a new door in an existing frame can significantly reduce costs. However, custom doors or those requiring a new frame or door jamb adjustments may lead to higher installation costs. Additionally, options like sliding doors, french doors, and double doors can offer enhanced functionality and aesthetic appeal but might come with different pricing structures due to the door hardware and labor costs involved.
Interior vs. Exterior Door Costs in Seattle
In Seattle, accurately estimating the average door installation cost involves understanding the differences between interior door installation and exterior door installation. Although there is a significant list of costs associated with new or replacement doors, installation is beyond important and worth investing in. The choice of materials – ranging from fiberglass doors to steel doors to solid wood doors – significantly affects the overall cost, as do specific features like glass accents or fire resistance.
Interior Door Costs
- Range: $1,000 to $3,000
- The costs for installing multiple doors such as accordion doors or standard slab doors typically include professional installation, assuming use of materials like hollow core or solid wood. These prices cover not only the door itself but also basic hardware and labor, excluding customizations such as glass doors or specialty finishes.
Exterior Door Costs
- Range: $2,000 to $7,000
- This estimate generally includes the cost to install an entry door or front door, with choices spanning steel doors, wrought iron doors, and fiberglass doors. Exterior double doors and storm doors add to the aesthetic and functional value, potentially increasing the average cost due to more complex door installation costs. The price range covers the door, door frame, standard locking mechanisms, and labor, with variations for additional security features or low e glass.
Factors that can impact costs
- Frame material can impact cost. For example, fiberglass frames will cost more than vinyl.
- Door hardware and advanced security systems, including smart locks, are crucial for exterior doors that need to provide security and cold-weather resistance for your front door.
- Choosing between pre-hung doors and traditional slab doors affects installation complexity and cost. Pre-hung doors usually offer a more straightforward installation process, reducing the labor costs associated with creating a new door opening or modifying an existing jamb.
- Custom doors, designed for specific interior or exterior door applications, require additional investment due to unique size specifications, high-quality materials, and intricate design elements.
- Labor costs in Seattle might be higher compared to other regions, reflecting local economic conditions and the premium for skilled labor.
- Installing specialty doors like pet doors, dog doors, or oversized doors in existing openings or into a load bearing wall may entail higher costs, given the additional structural modifications required.
Seattle Labor Costs
Labor costs are a significant component of any door installation project in Seattle. Understanding these expenses helps homeowners budget effectively for both interior and exterior door installations. Overall, the typical labor charge for installing a door is about $90 an hour, but costs vary depending on who you hire and how much work you do.
- Licensed Contractor:
- Typically charges around $100 per hour. Hiring a licensed contractor is advisable for complex projects, such as installing custom doors, oversized doors, or doors requiring structural modifications like those in a load bearing wall.
- Handyperson:
- Charges are approximately $70 per hour. A handyperson is a cost-effective option for simpler installations, such as setting up pre-hung doors, screen doors, or replacing an old door in an existing frame without the need for extensive modifications.
- Discounts for Multiple Installations:
- Many contractors offer discounted rates when multiple doors are installed at the same time. This can be particularly beneficial for larger renovation projects or for homeowners looking to replace several interior doors or update their front doors and storm doors simultaneously.
Door Parts and Hardware
The cost of door components varies widely, influenced by the materials and specific functionalities they provide. If you’re seeking insulation in particular, make sure you’re familiar with R-values associated with your door options. Below, we detail the typical price ranges for essential door hardware, with recommendations tailored to both economical and high-end preferences.
Jambs: $150 – $250
Cheapest Option: Basic pine or MDF jambs, suitable for interior doors where less wear and tear is expected.
Highest Quality Option: Hardwood or steel jambs for exterior doors, offering superior durability and weather resistance.
Hinges: $2.50 – $30 each
Cheapest Option: Standard steel hinges work well for lightweight interior doors.
Highest Quality Option: Stainless steel or brass hinges equipped with ball bearings, perfect for heavy exterior doors in high-usage areas.
Knobs, Strike Plates, Locks: $10 – $300
Cheapest Option: Simple door knob sets with standard strike plates for non-secure interior areas.
Highest Quality Option: High-grade locks and knobs with reinforced strike plates, designed to enhance security at entry points.
Deadbolts: $15 – $300
Cheapest Option: Single-cylinder deadbolts, adequate for basic home security.
Highest Quality Option: Advanced smart deadbolts with biometric and remote access capabilities, providing unparalleled security.
Insulation: $5 – $25
Cheapest Option: Basic foam or rubber strips, sufficient for internal door frames.
Highest Quality Option: Premium foam or fiberglass insulation kits, ideal for improving thermal efficiency and reducing noise on exterior doors.
Doorbell Systems: $30 – $350
Cheapest Option: Conventional wired doorbells for fundamental door alert needs.
Highest Quality Option: State-of-the-art smart doorbells with integrated video, audio, and connectivity features for enhanced security and convenience.
New vs. Existing Frame
Choosing the right framework for your door installation – whether for front doors, interior doors, or specialty glass doors – is pivotal in determining both the project’s aesthetic and functional outcomes.
- Existing Frames:
- Opting to use existing frames can dramatically reduce the cost to install a new door, especially when the existing opening fits standard door sizes. This is a straightforward solution for interior door installation, particularly if the goal is to minimize disruption and expense. It’s most feasible when the current frames are structurally sound and free from significant wear like that seen with an old door.
- New Frames:
- Installing new frames becomes essential when dealing with custom doors or multiple doors in a renovation or when front door replacement is involved. This option allows for customization down to the square foot, including the integration of low e glass for energy efficiency or glass accents for enhanced aesthetics. The process might include expanding an existing opening or modifying a rough frame, which can increase the project’s complexity and costs vary depending on the extent of the work needed.
Whether updating a single storm door or installing multiple doors across a property, the decision to go with new or existing frames impacts everything from the project’s timeline to its final look and feel. Homeowners should consider all aspects, including the potential need for accordion doors or the benefits of a screen door addition, to make an informed decision that aligns with both their needs and budget.
Solid vs. Hollow Core Doors
When selecting doors for your home, understanding the differences between solid and hollow core doors is crucial for making an informed decision that meets your specific needs. Both options have unique advantages, making the respectively popular as front doors and interior doors.
Solid core doors are an excellent choice for areas where soundproofing is important, such as bedrooms, home offices, or any room requiring privacy. These doors are constructed with a dense material that not only provides superior sound insulation but also adds a level of durability and heft to the door. However, this added quality comes at a higher cost, making them more expensive than their hollow counterparts. For homeowners looking for door projects that enhance the home’s functionality and aesthetics, solid core doors offer an effective solution that justifies the investment.
Hollow core doors are lighter and generally less expensive, making them a popular choice for interior areas where sound transmission is less of an issue. These doors are typically made from a thin veneer encasing a cardboard or plastic core that helps reduce material costs. While they are adequate for light use and low-budget projects, their lack of durability might not stand up to the demands of high-traffic areas or where a more substantial feel is desired.
Both types of doors have their place in residential construction, depending on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and specific needs such as soundproofing or cost considerations. Whether you’re updating a front door, adding screen doors, or considering interior door installation for privacy, the choice between solid and hollow core can significantly impact the comfort and functionality of your home.
Customization Costs
When planning door installations, homeowners must consider not only the type and style of the door but also the level of customization required to meet their specific needs.
Basic Installation
The cost range for basic installation is typically between $700 and $2,500, excluding the cost of the product. This includes the fitting of standard doors without additional modifications. Basic installation is ideal for straightforward projects where the door size and hardware requirements fit within standard specifications. It’s perfect for those looking to replace existing doors or upgrade interior doors with minimal structural changes.
Advanced Customization
For those requiring more tailored solutions, advanced customization costs can range from $3,000 to over $10,000. This higher price bracket encompasses a variety of enhancements such as custom doors, oversized doors, accordion doors, or unique designs that involve glass doors with intricate glass accents. Advanced customization may also include the integration of specialized door hardware, security systems, or smart locks that increase both the functionality and the aesthetic appeal of the doors. It could also include things like creating a new or larger opening, installing advance bifold doors, or a moving glass wall system.
These costs can also be influenced by factors such as the material of the door, whether it is a solid wood door or a fiberglass door, and the complexity of the installation, which might involve enlarging an existing opening or modifying a load-bearing wall. Whether you are considering a new door installation or front door replacement, understanding these costs is essential for budgeting and ensuring that the final product aligns with your vision and requirements. Despite the potential increase in cost, make sure you’re getting your new doors professionally installed to ensure maximum ROI on your investment with benefits like the leak armor guarantee.
Securing Your Home with the Right Doors
There are is a significant list of factors that impact door costs, from the initial choice of materials to the nuances of installation and customization, and it’s evident how significant these decisions are for the security, functionality, and aesthetic of your home. Whether it’s selecting the right type of door to match your home’s style or understanding the detailed costs associated with custom installations, every choice plays a pivotal role in enhancing your living space.
For expert guidance and top-notch service on your next door installation or replacement project, consider partnering with Lake Washington Windows and Doors. Our team is committed to providing high-quality solutions tailored to your specific needs. Reach out to us for comprehensive support that ensures your door choices not only meet but exceed your expectations.
