Installing a prehung door is one of the most common home improvement projects. A prehung door comes already attached to its frame, making installation quicker and often easier than hanging a traditional slab door. However, costs vary widely depending on several factors—from the door type and material to labor rates and installation complexities. This comprehensive guide breaks down every cost factor to expect, provides insights into the installation process, and compares different door types to help you budget effectively for your prehung door installation.
Prehung Door Installation Cost Calculator
What Is a Prehung Door?
A prehung door is a door slab already attached to a three-sided frame (jambs and header) with hinges installed. These doors come pre-assembled with pre-cut holes for doorknobs and mortises for the hinges, which simplifies and speeds up the installation process. In contrast, a slab door is just the door itself without the frame or hardware.
Prehung doors are popular because they reduce the effort and expertise needed to install a door, especially when replacing or upgrading doorways with damaged or outdated framing.
Average Cost to Install a Prehung Door
On average, the total cost to install a prehung door ranges from $516 to $1,225, with costs influenced heavily by the door type, material, size, labor rates, and complexity of installation. Here’s a summarized cost breakdown illustrating typical expenses for installing a standard interior prehung door:
| Cost Component | Low Range | High Range |
|---|---|---|
| Prehung Door (door + frame) | $179 | $273 |
| Labor Installation | $178 | $273 |
| Supplies (shims, nails, caulk) | $30 | $100 |
| Equipment and Miscellaneous fees | $30 | $50 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $417 | $696 |
(Data adapted from Homewyse cost calculator and general estimates as of 2025)
For exterior doors, expect these numbers to rise significantly due to security demands, weatherproofing, and heavier materials.
Factors Influencing Prehung Door Installation Costs
Understanding what influences your final cost helps you make informed decisions.
- Type of Door
- Interior doors generally cost less to buy and install, averaging between $200 and $600 total.
- Exterior doors tend to run from $400 to $2,000+, with heavy steel or solid wood doors costing more.
- Specialty doors (French, sliding, barn, fire-rated) can cost upwards of thousands depending on style and customization.
- Door Material
Common materials include hollow core (cheaper), solid wood, fiberglass, steel, and composite materials. Costs increase with durability and aesthetics. - Labor Costs
Labor typically costs $150 to $600 depending on your region, contractor experience, and job complexity such as frame adjustments or drywall repairs. - Site Preparation Requirements
Removing the old door, resizing the rough opening, repairing or finishing drywall, and insulating can increase labor and material costs. - Hardware and Accessories
Locks, handles, hinges, and trim casing might not be included with the door and can add $50 to $300 or more. - Complexity and Timing
Installing multiple doors or new door openings can yield unit cost savings. Urgent jobs or complicated installs (e.g., uneven floors) might also cost more.
Comparison: Prehung Doors vs. Slab Doors Installation Costs
| Feature | Prehung Door | Slab Door |
|---|---|---|
| Door + Frame Cost | $179 – $273 | $50 – $350 |
| Installation Labor Cost | $178 – $273 | $230 – $800 (more labor-intensive due to frame prep) |
| Installation Time | ~30 minutes to 2 hours | Up to 4 hours |
| Hardware Included | Often includes hinges, drilled holes | Hardware must be purchased separately |
| Framing Required | Included | Not included |
| Overall Cost Range | $400 – $700 | $450 – $1,150 |
Prehung doors generally cost more upfront but save labor time and complexity, often making them the better overall value, especially for exterior installations or situations with damaged frames.
Table 1: Interior Prehung Door Cost Estimate
| Item | Quantity | Unit Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prehung door (hollow core) | 1 | $180 | $180 |
| Labor (installation) | 1 person | $250 | $250 |
| Supplies (shims, nails) | Lump sum | $50 | $50 |
| Total | – | – | $480 |
Table 2: Exterior Prehung Steel Door Cost Estimate
| Item | Quantity | Unit Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel prehung door | 1 | $600 | $600 |
| Labor (installation) | 1 person | $400 | $400 |
| Weatherproofing supplies | Lump sum | $100 | $100 |
| Additional hardware | Lump sum | $150 | $150 |
| Total | – | – | $1,250 |
Table 3: Factors Increasing Labor Costs
| Factor | Impact on Labor Cost |
|---|---|
| Removing existing door/frame | Adds $100 – $200 |
| Drywall repair/modifications | Adds $100 – $300 |
| Uneven or oversized openings | Adds $200+ |
| Weatherproofing and insulation | Adds $50 – $150 |
Table 4: Average Door Styles and Cost Ranges (Installed)
| Door Style | Cost Range (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Standard Single | $200 – $1,800 |
| Double | $750 – $5,000 |
| French | $600 – $5,800 |
| Sliding | $1,200 – $4,500 |
| Barn | $1,350 – $5,000 |
(Data adapted from Angi estimates as of 2025)
Table 5: Common Additional Door Installation Supplies and Costs
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Door knobs/locks | $10 – $300 |
| Door hinges | $5 – $30 each |
| Frame casing | $20 – $100 per set |
| Deadbolt lock | $40 – $200 |
| Transition strips | $20 – $100 |
Installation Process Overview
Installing a prehung door typically follows these main steps:
- Removing the Old Door – Carefully detach the existing door and trim if present.
- Preparing the Rough Opening – Check the size and square of the opening; repair or modify framing if necessary.
- Fitting the Prehung Door Frame – Set the door and frame into the opening; use shims to level and plumb the frame precisely.
- Securing the Frame – Nail or screw the frame securely to the studs.
- Installing Hardware – Attach handles, locks, and ensure the door swings correctly without binding.
- Adding Trim and Casing – Install interior and exterior trim to cover gaps.
- Finishing Touches – Caulk, paint or stain as needed for aesthetics and weatherproofing.
Though DIY installation is possible with the right tools and skills, hiring a professional ensures precise fitting, especially for exterior doors or uneven openings.
Tips to Save on Prehung Door Installation Costs
- Buy doors during sales or bulk discounts to reduce material costs.
- Hire a reputable installer; cheap labor might lead to costly mistakes.
- Consider standard sizes to avoid custom door premiums.
- Prepare the area yourself by removing old doors and trim.
- Bundle projects by installing multiple doors at once to reduce labor fees.
- Choose hollow core or less ornate doors for interior use to save money.
Final Thoughts
The cost to install a prehung door depends on material choice, labor complexity, and additional requirements like weatherproofing and hardware. Expect interior doors to cost less, with prices generally between $400 and $700 for the complete job, while exterior doors may cost from $1,000 to $2,500 or more depending on features and materials. Prehung doors offer ease of installation and better long-term fit compared to slab doors, often making them the preferred choice despite a higher initial cost.
If you want your door installation to be durable, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing, invest in quality materials and professional installation services. This investment ensures security, energy efficiency, and smooth functionality for years to come.
If you need more specific quotes tailored to your location and door type, consulting local contractors or using online cost calculators like Homewyse or Angi is recommended.