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Homeowner guide · Doors

How to hire a door installer

To hire a door installer, ask whether they'll install a prehung door or a slab, have them check the frame before giving a final price, and get a quote that lists hardware, trim, threshold and removal of the old door. For exterior doors, ask how they'll flash and seal it against water and drafts.

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Quick answer

Start here

  • 1

    Prehung or slab

  • 2

    Frame checked first

  • 3

    Hardware and trim listed

  • 4

    Weather sealing for exterior doors

Plain-English, no jargon

What to look for

  • Experience with your door type, like entry, patio or interior
  • Liability insurance
  • A plan for frame repair if needed
  • A labor warranty
  • Reviews that mention doors that close and latch smoothly

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Prehung or slab, and why?
  • Does the frame need repair or replacement?
  • Is hardware, trim and paint included?
  • How will you seal an exterior door against water?
  • Is hauling away the old door included?

Getting and comparing quotes

Give each installer the same door and hardware. Compare whether trim, paint and frame repair are included, since those often explain price gaps.

Red flags

  • Gives a price without looking at the frame
  • Skips flashing on exterior doors
  • No labor warranty
  • Full payment before install

FAQ

Common questions

What is a prehung door?

A door already mounted in its frame. It usually installs faster and seals better.

Can a sticking door be fixed instead of replaced?

Often, by adjusting hinges, the strike plate or planing the edge.

How long does door installation take?

Interior doors can take an hour or two; front doors often take most of a day.

Doors

Common doors jobs

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How to Hire a Door Installer: Prehung, Frames and Sealing