The average cost to install a steel door ranges from $150 to $1,400, with a national average of $600. Labor prices and the type of steel door impact total cost.
Installing a standard steel door costs between $150 and $1,400, with an average cost of $600. Have you recently looked at your front door and thought it might be time to upgrade? Your wood door looks unappealing, and fiberglass isn’t the most budget-friendly option. If you want affordability and protection, a steel door is a great choice. Let's review how to budget for steel door installation.
In addition to being cost-effective, steel doors offer these other benefits:
Enhanced security: A layer of steel protects your home and makes it harder for intruders to enter using tools or their hands.
Extended durability: The life span of a steel front door is between 30 to 100 years.
Increased energy efficiency: Steel doors come with better insulation and a tighter frame, meaning reduced monthly energy bills.
Most residential steel doors are made from galvanized steel, which is steel that’s dipped in zinc. The zinc coating creates a barrier that protects against scratches and corrosion. And there’s no need to worry about a drab entryway: You can customize your steel door with a variety of colors to fit your house's aesthetic.
Depending on your budget and home’s size, there are various steel doors you can install. Here’s a quick breakdown of the different types and their associated costs:
| Steel Door Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic | $150 – $400 |
| Fire-rated | $250 – $700 |
| Decorative with glass | $500 – $1,000 |
| With sidelights | $700 – $3,000 |
| Double | $950 – $2,800 |
Here’s a closer look at the costs involved in installing a steel door.
Most homeowners typically buy the door installation materials for their contractors, including:
The door
Screws
Knobs
Locks & latches
Hinges
Costs for materials are usually between $150 to $600 but can vary depending on your project. To save time, you could always ask a local door installer to gather the materials for you and tack them onto your final bill.
Labor rates for door installation can be $40 to $90 an hour or more. If you opt for handyman services, it will cost you $30 to $40 per hour. Ultimately labor rates will get decided by your location and how much work the project needs.
As a reminder, installing an exterior steel door costs between $150 and $1400, not including labor and materials. But you may decide that steel doors are also the best option for your home’s interior. Interior door installation costs around $360 to $1,150, but you’ll need to factor in labor costs, materials, and your home’s location.
Location plays a part in how much your door installation will cost. Here’s a look at the average prices in 10 states:
Kentucky: $450
Maine: $480
Nebraska: $420
Colorado: $490
Georgia: $535
Louisiana: $490
New York: $730
Wyoming: $550
Minnesota: $590
Ohio: $500
If you decide to go the DIY route for steel door installation, you’ll save money on labor costs, which range between $40 to $90 an hour. The average door installation takes roughly six to seven hours, so that’s approximately $260 to $500 you’ll be saving.
You’ll still have to pay for materials, which cost between $150 and $600.
Saving money is always a priority when planning a project. But steel door installation requires advanced skill. Proper installation is necessary for the door to be able to protect your home from intruders and outdoor elements.
Plus, you’ll need a vehicle that’s large enough to transport the door as well as the right installation tools and ample time to complete the project. So if you’re not confident in your skillset, find a door installation contractor near you. It’s better to have it done by a professional than to cause a DIY error that could have you shelling out extra money for repairs.
Here are some tips to save money on the installation without cutting corners and compromising on the quality:
Get quotes from several contractors in your area.
Use the existing door frame unless the current one is worn out.
Consider which type of steel door fits your budget.
Visit various home improvement stores to compare material prices.
If the current frame is in good condition, a steel door that’s the same size as your current door should fit the existing frame. Any wear and tear to the current frame will need to be repaired before fitting a new door.
Steel door installation varies by your contractor's experience, necessary work, and door type. Most door installations take six to seven hours, but if you have a pre-hung door, the job should be no more than two hours.
Replacing your door frame is always something to factor in when planning door installations. You should also consider changing broken or worn-out locks to enhance your home’s security.
