Door Installation
Door installation covers hanging or replacing exterior and interior doors, including the frame, threshold, weatherstripping, and hardware. Exterior work emphasizes weather sealing and security, and pricing is per door.
How door installation is done
- Measure the opening and select a pre-hung or slab door
- Remove the old door and frame
- Prep and flash the opening for exterior doors
- Set, plumb, and shim the new door in the opening
- Install hardware, weatherstripping, and threshold
- Adjust for smooth operation and seal the exterior
What homeowners should know
- Choose pre-hung units for easier, more accurate installation
- For exterior doors, prioritize weather sealing and security hardware
- Confirm the door swing direction before ordering
- Ask about flashing and threshold detailing to prevent leaks
- Match interior door style and finish to the rest of the home
Permits, timelines & things to consider
- Exterior door replacement may need a permit; interior swaps usually do not
- Door type, from hollow-core interior to solid or steel exterior, drives cost per door
- Out-of-square openings add labor to level the install
- Weatherstripping and flashing are key for exterior energy and water performance
- Custom sizes and glass increase lead time and price
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to install a door?
A standard pre-hung door is usually installed in a few hours; multiple doors or reframing an opening takes longer.
What is a pre-hung door?
A pre-hung door comes already mounted in its frame with hinges, making installation faster and more accurate than hanging a slab in an existing frame.
Do I need a permit to replace a door?
Interior door swaps generally do not require a permit, but enlarging an opening or some exterior door work may.