Understanding Solid Core Door Installation Cost for Residential Projects
For construction professionals, understanding the cost of installing solid core doors is crucial. These doors offer superior soundproofing and durability, making them a popular choice for high-end projects. However, the costs can vary significantly. Typically, the installation cost ranges from $420 to $670 per door, depending on factors such as material, labor, and finishing. Here, we break down the key components to help you budget accurately and avoid unexpected expenses.
What Makes a Door 'Solid Core'?
Solid core doors are constructed with a high-density wood fiber or composite core, providing enhanced sound dampening and impact resistance. This construction requires careful consideration of weight, which affects labor and hardware requirements.
Key Cost Components You Need to Track
- Door slab price
- Frame and jamb upgrades
- Specialty hinges and heavy-duty hardware
- Finish carpentry labor
- Paint or stain finishing
- Removal and disposal of existing doors
- Site conditions and access challenges
Average Price Ranges in Today’s Market
In Los Angeles, a standard 32" x 80" solid core interior door installation costs between $420 and $670. This includes:
- Material only: $140 – $260 per door
- Labor: $220 – $340 per door
- Finishing and paint: $60 – $70 per door
Why Solid Core Costs More than Hollow Core
- Weight: Requires two installers for safe handling.
- Hardware: Upgraded hinge kits needed for heavier doors.
- Finishing: Denser core may require additional primer coats.
- Transport: May incur additional delivery fees.
See Cost Changes in Real Time with CountBricks
CountBricks integrates live supplier feeds to provide real-time pricing updates, ensuring your estimates reflect current market conditions.
Hidden Expenses Contractors Often Miss
- Door trimming: Plan for extra time to adjust for non-square openings.
- Repainting nearby casing: Account for touch-ups.
- Disposal costs: Vary by region and weight.
- Punch-list visits: Include follow-up trips for adjustments.
Five Pro Tips to Reduce Solid Core Door Installation Cost
- Order pre-hung units to save on framing labor.
- Use three-hinge templates for efficient hinge pocket routing.
- Opt for factory-primed doors to reduce on-site finishing time.
- Group installations to minimize travel costs.
- Leverage bulk-purchase data for better supplier pricing.
How CountBricks Streamlines Your Project Workflow
- Input your project scope into the CountBricks app.
- Our AI engine processes materials and tasks.
- Receive a detailed, real-time cost estimate.
- Review and adjust mark-ups as needed.
- Generate a professional proposal with ease.
Case Study: The Moreno Valley Remodel
A contractor used CountBricks to estimate a $9,480 project for replacing 14 doors, achieving a final cost within 2% of the original quote.
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Access current material prices and regional labor averages with CountBricks. Create your free account at CountBricks.com and enhance your project efficiency.
Breaking Down the Numbers with CountBricks Analytics
CountBricks provides detailed cost analysis by comparing local supplier invoices and labor logs, offering insights into the true cost drivers of solid core door installations.
Cost Variation by Door Style
- Flush slab: $420 – $510 installed
- Two-panel shaker: $470 – $580 installed
- Five-panel Craftsman: $510 – $670 installed
Regional Labor Rate Insights
Los Angeles County averages 1.8 labor hours per door at $120 per hour for a two-person crew, while Riverside County averages 1.6 hours at $100 per hour.
ROI Perspective for Homeowners
Solid core doors offer a 3–5× return in perceived value, especially in open-concept homes, reducing long-term maintenance expenses.
Next Steps
- Visit CountBricks.com to view completed projects.
- Schedule a demo to see live cost data in action.
- Use our AI takeoff tool for automatic quantity generation.
CountBricks equips you with the tools needed for efficient and accurate project management. Start building smarter today.
