The Real Cost of an Interior Door in Residential Construction
For construction professionals, understanding the true cost of installing an interior door is crucial. Current installation rates range from $120 to over $950 per opening, depending on various factors. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of costs, helping you budget accurately and avoid overestimating.
Key Cost Drivers in Interior Door Installation
1. Door Type and Core
- Hollow core molded: $65–$105 per slab
- Solid core MDF: $120–$185 per slab
- Solid wood: $250 and up
2. Size and Thickness
- Standard sizes are more economical; oversized doors increase costs by 20–40%
3. Finish Level
- Factory-primed doors are cheaper but require on-site painting
- Pre-finished doors save labor but add $40–$90 per unit
4. Hardware Selections
- Basic sets start at $12; designer options can exceed $200
5. Labor Complexity
- Retrofit: 0.65–1.1 labor hours
- New opening: 1.5–2.2 labor hours
Regional Price Snapshot: Houston vs. National Average
In Houston, the average cost for a hollow core prehung door is $214 installed, compared to the national average of $236. Adjustments for local factors ensure precise estimates.
Sample Estimate Breakdown
- Material: 30 hollow core slabs at $93.45 = $2,803.50
- Hardware: Satin nickel levers at $18.20 each = $546.00
- Labor: 37 hours at $54.75/hr = $2,026.00
- Consumables & disposal: $185.00
- Project management & markup: 12% = $664.62
Total project cost: $6,225.12
Cost-Saving Strategies
- Opt for factory-primed doors if planning a full paint cycle
- Use split-jamb kits to reduce labor
- Bundle orders to avoid freight charges
Common Budget-Busting Mistakes
- Ordering before verifying sizes
- Omitting casing costs
- Underestimating labor for older homes
Streamlining Your Next Door Project
- Use AI for real-time estimates
- Access current material costs
- Generate multiple options with ease
Final Thoughts
Accurate cost estimation is essential for successful projects. Visit CountBricks.com for tools that enhance your quoting process.
Case Study: The Smith Family Renovation in Cypress, TX
The Smiths' renovation highlighted the importance of door selection in modernizing their home. CountBricks provided a quick, accurate estimate that guided their decisions.
Scope Captured in Under Three Minutes
- Replace 18 hollow core slabs with solid core MDF
- Widen bathroom entry for accessibility
- Install soft-close hinges and matte black levers
How CountBricks Added Value
- Live cost comparison showed a $1,740 difference
- Automated code checks prevented costly errors
- Bulk hardware savings of 14%
Final Numbers
- Total Contract: $9,820
- Duration: 2.5 days with two carpenters
- Change Orders: Zero
Lessons for Your Projects
- Capture accurate counts early
- Use real-time price toggles
- Leverage supplier networks for savings
For more information, visit CountBricks.com.
