Updated September 8, 2022
Reviewed by Robert Tschudi, Expert Home Building and Remodeling Contributor. Written by HomeAdvisor.
Homeowners pay $600 on the low end, $1,400 on average, and $4,600 at the highest. A steel model could cost $300 to $700 for the cost of security doors, locks, and installation. Security screen doors usually cost less, around $50 to $600. Professional installation averages $275 to $425. Locks usually come separately and range from $200 to $600.
When homeowners want to buy a security model, they may have options in the purchase and installation. Some installers buy the products for their customers, and others will install the items that a person buys independently. Installation by a skilled contractor can ensure that the unit will hang, open and close correctly.
Most manufacturer warranties depend on proper installation. Homeowners should evaluate their skill sets before deciding to do it themselves.
In this article
- Average Security Door Installation Costs
- Security Door Costs by Type
- Cost to Install Security Doors
- Door Prices by Top Brands
- Security Door Installation Cost Factors
- DIY Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
Average Security Door Installation Costs
| Average | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| $1,400 | $4,600 | $600 |
Security Door Costs by Type
Security door prices start around $400 for fiberglass and reach as high as $3,000 for steel-encased hardwood. Aside from a screen, security units can appear as a solid piece, bars, or gates. The material used to build them creates a wide range of prices for individual products. Homeowners pick certain items based on the material’s style, function, and durability.
Security Screen Door
The price of security screen doors typically ranges from $50 to $600. Prices can vary depending on the material and size of the door, with larger sizes and stronger mesh costing more. Innovations in screens have led to the development of security styles, which offer security, ventilation, and convenience. The cost to install a screen door often comes in lower than the cost for storm doors, at $50 to $100 per unit.
Sliding Security Door
A sliding security door costs about $1,000. While this is more expensive than sliding glass doors, some homeowners want to have added assurance for their patio. Prices go up for larger pieces of glass, or if you opt to have the system hung prior to installation.
Security Storm Door
Security storm styles cost $300 to $3,000, depending on the material. By comparison, the cost of storm doors ranges from $100 to $400. The security of the unit affects how much you will pay. Although standard storm models often provide weather protection and extra barriers to entry, they are not, by definition, built for security.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass doors cost around $400, making them one of the more affordable types of security door. A model made out of fiberglass offers the look and feel of solid hardwood without the same pricing. A fiberglass unit contains a fiberglass shell with an interior of foam and wood.
Steel Security Doors
A steel door costs about $300 to $700 on average for the item, in addition to installation. People often prefer steel for its accessibility, affordability, and durability, and steel is a standard choice for most entrances.
Hardwood
A security door made from solid hardwood costs $900 on average, or more for exotic wood species. The finished product typically stands at least two inches thick to provide adequate protection against weather and forced entry. Many people love the look of natural hardwood, making this an attractive option for a security door.
Wrought Iron
Homeowners who choose this material will pay $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the product. The installation of wrought iron trends higher than other materials, around $550. Security styles made of wrought iron offer a classic look with superior strength. The range may resemble the cost to install iron security bars elsewhere in the home.
Steel-Encased Hardwood
For about $3,000, steel-encased hardwood security doors will hold up under difficult conditions and maintain the traditional wood look. Since hardwood does not always stand up to the test of time, the discerning buyer may opt for steel-encased hardwood instead.
Security Gates for Doors
The cost of security gates could range widely, from $900 on the low end to $5,000 at the top. You might opt to install a security gate for added protection around a yard or driveway.
Find Security Door Installers
Cost to Install Security Doors
Installation for a security entrance relates to how much work you require. The cost to install a door with security features ranges from $300 to $1,000, although most pay on the lower end of the range. The average expense for security installation stands at $275 to $425 per unit.
Reframing and Hanging New Exterior Security Door
Reframing serves as one aspect of exterior door installation that could increase the total price. Consumers can expect an extra $250 to $400 to install a new frame. This includes materials, like shims and caulk, the new frame, and the cost of installation.
Repair or Replacement Costs and Considerations
People who want to avoid replacing the unit pay about $220 on average for common door repairs. If you choose to replace glass, it will cost $100 to $500, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Some homeowners opt to replace instead of repair. In this case, you may face an additional charge of $45 to haul away the old equipment, including dumping fees.
Door Prices by Top Brands
You can choose from a variety of brands and styles. Most manufacturers recommend hiring a licensed contractor or another skilled professional to install it. Prices can vary significantly depending on your selection. Contact a representative from the company to get a quote.
Crimsafe Security Doors
Crimsafe specializes in screens with added security features. Crimsafe products include:
French doors
Sliding security
(Video) How to install a security screen doorBi-fold
Stacking
Limited 10-year warranty
Tru Frame
To buy a Tru Frame product, you can expect to pay $500 to $3,500. They make certain popular models, such as Viewguard. The company offers:
Storm doors
French security styles
Sliding screens
Limited five-year warranty
Master
Master Security Doors features a variety of products designed to meet American and European standards for quality. Options range from hurricane and tornado to ballistic protection:
Single
French
In-swing or out-swing
Sliding glass
Full or partial view
C.R. Laurence
C.R. Laurence maintains a large selection of security models, some under the popular Guarda name. Customers can choose from several features, such as:
Multi-locking screen doors
Sliding security screens
French opening
30-day limited warranty
Larson
Larson presents security doors designed to handle the elements with the style customers want. Their catalog ranges from $200 to $900 and includes:
Security storm, screen, and patio
Steel material
Full or partial view
Decorative glass
Limited lifetime warranty on certain components
Xpanda
Xpanda offers security gates in variable sizes, for multiple purposes. The company indicates that installation technicians are available for hire. The products feature a one- to two-year warranty, depending on the item.
Unique Home Designs
Unique Home Designs manufactures affordable units for the cost-conscious consumer. Costs for their products range from $300 to $1,000. The company sells models in steel or aluminum, screens, and a limited lifetime warranty.
Titan
Titan aims to function as a one-stop shop for security in all styles. Their products may cost from $600 to $1,700 per item and include:
Storm security doors
Security screens
Full and partial view
Double
Patio
Limited lifetime warranty
Shield
Shield Security Doors specializes in custom-built products that will meet individual requirements. Their services emphasize an ability to create almost any style, such as French opening, partial view, or replica models.
Get Quotes From Security Door Pros
Security Door Installation Cost Factors
Some factors that affect the cost of installing a security door include the size of the door, any repairs you need to install the door, and additional security features. With some features, like alarms, you may need to pay the cost of an alarm monitoring service.
Size
The larger your door, the more you can expect to pay for a security door. Larger sizes can cost up to $600.
Locks
What type of lock you choose also affects the cost of your security door. Locks average around $400, but can cost $700 or more depending on the specific type. Options include mechanical locks, access pads, smart locks, and more. The cost to hire a locksmith is about $150 per project.
Repairs
You’ll need to pay more to cover the cost of any necessary repairs before you can install a security door. For instance, touching up the fixtures and framing may cost $100 to $150.
Improvements and Reinforcement
While installing a new door, you may also want to include upgraded features, such as reinforced door frames and jambs. A new frame, for example, costs about $50 to $75.
Additional Security Enhancements
You may also want to consider additional security enhancements such as window bars, cameras, or alarm systems. The cost to install a home security system is about $700 on average, while the cost to install a security camera is about $125 to $450 per camera.
DIY Installation vs. Hiring a Pro?
A homeowner with experience in carpentry could install a security model themselves, although manufacturers suggest against it. Most of the expenses concern materials for the project. A door may seem simple to install, but hanging demands precision. Otherwise, the unit will not close properly.
Many people decide that getting it right justifies the expense of hiring a professional. If you plan to install a security door yourself, you may also want to consider additional safety features for your home. For example, the cost to install a security safe is around $500.
Have More Questions About Your Security Door?
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between security storm and security screen doors?
Storm doors protect against the elements, such as wind, rain, or ice. Screen doors offer ventilation options with added security but little barrier from the weather. In a cost comparison, screens lean cheaper on average, around $300. Storm-blocking products cost about $1,000. Many opt to install both for the ultimate in weather and intrusion protection.
What's the cheapest way to buy security doors?
People often get the lowest prices from big box home improvement stores, with some units as low as $100. However, if you choose a simple style, you may not pay much more to buy straight from a manufacturer. Although many brands offer installation manuals, most claim that hiring an experienced professional is best.
Another piece of advice, too: “The Internet is your friend. Get the manufacturer name and model number from the big–box store and then look online,” says Bob Tschudi, Expert Review Board members and a Raleigh, NC-based GC. “Just remember that a few dollars saved online is great until you have to return an item. I’ve discovered that the big box stores will bend over backwards to right a wrong—online vendors might not be so willing.”
How long does it take to install a security door?
It typically takes around an hour to install a security door, although the time it takes can vary depending on your specific situation. It may take longer for larger doors, or if you need additional repairs, replacements, or additions. Be sure to ask your installation professional if you’re on a strict schedule.
Does a security door add value to your house?
Like many types of home improvements, a security door can add value to your house. Additional security features, like home alarms and security systems, can further boost the value of your property. However, your location likely plays a significant role in how much value your security features may add to your home.
FAQs
Can you install security door yourself? ›
You can only install the actual door after the handles, hinges and locks are all secure. It's a relatively simple job. You just have to drill all holes to their respective hinges, starting from the bottom down. The only catch is that the door itself is heavy so you might need manual help when putting it up.
What is the labor cost to install an exterior door? ›The labor costs to install single doors usually range from $80 to $630, so the total price of the project generally ranges from $230 to $3,630.
How long does it take to install a door? ›A typical door installation will take about four hours, but depending on the size and complexity of the door, it could be longer.
How much does Lowes charge to install a sliding patio door? ›If you are planning to purchase your doors from Lowe's, you can request an estimate using the tool on the company's website, or you can visit one of the stores to discuss the job in person. WCMA Net says you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 in labor costs for patio doors.
What kind of door is best for security? ›Steel doors are among the best front doors for security. It's nearly impossible to break through; even if beaten or abused, these doors are more likely to dent than come down.
What tools do I need to install a security door? ›The door comes completely pre-hung in its own frame and hinges, ready for installation. Basic tools are all that are needed, including a level, socket wrench set, drill, and drill bits that are long enough to go all the way through the wall.
How much should I charge to install a door? ›Highlights. The typical range for door installation costs is $496 to $1,760, with a national average price of $1,087. Factors affecting door installation costs include the door placement, size, type, and material; the wall material; whether there is an existing frame; labor costs; and hardware prices.
How much do you charge to put in a door and frame? ›...
Highlights.
| Minimum Cost | Average National Cost | Maximum Cost |
|---|---|---|
| $200 | $400 | $700 |
The cost of door frame repairs is between $150 and $360, with a national average of $255. If it's beyond repair, replacing an exterior door frame runs from $130 to $390, with an average cost of about $270.
How long does it take a professional to install a door? ›The amount of time it takes to replace a door and doorframe is likely to take several hours and less than one day. The old door frame must come out, trim must be removed, and the rough opening may have to be adjusted in size to accommodate the new door.
What time of year should you install a door? ›
The spring, summer, and fall are the best times, to get the door installed before it lets in cold air and ruins the heating in your home. Check the weather and plan the install of your replacement door on a day where there is no rain in the forecast. You do not want to have water coming in the house.
Is installing a door difficult? ›Hanging or installing a door isn't as difficult as it may seem. Replacing an existing door is easy if the new door core is the same size. Installing a door in a new partition wall is also very easy if you buy a prehung door so you don't have to build the door frame yourself.
What does Lowes charge to install a garage door opener? ›How Much Does Lowe's Charge to Install a Garage Door? Lowe's charges between $199 and $599 (CAD 270 and CAD 800) to fit both a new garage door and the opener. This figure is for labor fees only; the door would cost extra. Fitting an opener to an existing door is less expensive than having a new door installed.
Is installing a sliding door easy? ›Installing a sliding glass door frame is a relatively simple process — assuming you're replacing an old frame and the rough opening is already cut. It's vital to clean the opening and install flashing for weatherproofing before you insert the new frame.
What to look for when buying a security door? ›- Be sure of your manufacturer/distributor. ...
- Check out the local showrooms. ...
- Talk to your dealer about the installation process. ...
- Find out about service and warranties. ...
- Find out the specifications of your security door. ...
- Find out about the coating.
Adding a security door immediately increases your home value. You will have less to pay on your home insurance, too. Taking the steps needed to fully protect your home saves you money in the long run, not to think of the valuables that you protect within your home.
How big should a security door be? ›Most standard storm door sizes are 32" and 36" wide, some models are also available in 30" and 34". Custom storm doors are available in many models, up to 8' high.
What is the strongest way to secure a door? ›A strong deadbolt lock is the linchpin of a secure entryway; the deadbolt will secure the door closed in its frame. If you don't have a strong deadbolt in place already, choose one of the best door locks with an ANSI rating of 2 or 1.
How do you secure a door from thieves? ›- Upgrade the strike plate on your door to a sturdier model.
- Replace exterior hinges with interior hinges.
- Install a wide-angle peephole.
- Upgrade older locks into newer, upgraded models or add additional locks or deadbolts.
Take three measurements inside the door frame – at the top, middle and bottom. The widest measurement determines the width of the door. Use a tape measure to understand the width of the three areas of the door frame. Run the tape measure along the width of the frame from the left to the right and record these numbers.
How much does it cost to install a 30 inch door? ›
The cost of installing a prehung door varies greatly by size: Standard (up to 80-by-36 inches): $150–$700 installed. Extra-large (exceeds standard sizing): $220–$1,450 installed. Double (80-by-60 inches or wider): $420–$4,450 installed.
How many square feet does a door take up? ›Doors are usually 21 square feet (there are two in this example): 21 sq. ft. x 2 = 42 sq. ft.
How much should I charge for framing? ›Framing options include wood and metal and your costs will vary depending on which material is used. Wood prices are about $1 to $5 per square foot while metal framing is about $2 to $4 per square foot.
How much should I charge to frame? ›While residential framing costs range between $7 - $16 per square foot, commercial framing is more expensive. The average commercial framing job ranges from $12 to $40 per square foot. In addition, most commercial buildings use steel rather than wood, attributing to the cost differences.
How much does it cost to open a door? ›You can expect to pay between $65 to $200. A locksmith should be able to open your door in minutes by picking your lock. You should be wary of a locksmith attempting to use a drill immediately for this task.
How much does it cost to install a steel frame door? ›Installing an average steel door costs between $150 and $1,400. High-end steel door installation costs about $3,000. Installation takes roughly six to seven hours. The lifespan of steel doors is 30 to 100 years.
Does door replacement include frame? ›As long as the door frame is in good condition, and the new door panel is the same size as the old one, replacing a door without replacing the frame is certainly a possibility. However, there are certain signs that can indicate your door frame needs replacing.
How long does it take to replace an external door frame? ›Fitting a new front door or back door should take between two and four hours, assuming that the door you purchased is a good fit for the new opening. Before you can fit a new door, you will need to remove the old one.
How long should it take a carpenter to hang a door? ›How long should it take to fit an internal door? If you have to first remove your old door, it should take you around 2 hours to fit a new internal door, depending on your level of DIY skill and tools.
How long does it take to install a pre hung exterior door? ›Keep in mind that installing a prehung door means you'll have a large hole in your home, so you should plan to complete your exterior door installation in less than a day. If you aren't comfortable doing this installation, call a professional.
How much labor does it take to install an interior door? ›
The average labor cost to install an interior door is $100 to $300. Professionals charge $30 to $80 per hour plus call-out fees with the average door taking 1 to 3 hours to install. Budget at the high-end for repairing or replacing the framing, door jamb, hinges, or handles.
How do you tell if a door is installed correctly? ›You have to see whether or not your door operates easily and quietly, so open and close it several times to ensure there are no problems in this regard. If the door has been properly installed, it will be able to operate normally, and you should be able to open and close it effortlessly without hearing any odd sounds.
Do you paint a new door before or after installing? ›We would always recommend painting your door before it's been hung (installed). Find out more about finishing and decorating your interior doors here.
Do you install doors before or after drywall? ›Normally interior doors get installed after the drywall is hung, taped, and finished, but you also have the option to start hanging interior doors before drywall. One of the biggest advantages to installing them after drywall, is that your doors will stay cleaner and will be less likely to be damaged.
What is the easiest door installation? ›Pre-hung door units are the easiest to install. This type of door is always installed on new homes. The unit comes complete with jambs and hardware. It's milled and machined to fit perfectly and it does.
Which of the following is the first step when installing an exterior door? ›Measure Your Existing Entry Door
Before you begin the door installation process, your first step is to break out the measuring tape and write down the dimensions of your old entry door. Write down the measurements for the width and height of the door frame, as well as the jamb depth.
A garage door opener installation costs between $220 and $550 for professional installation. The opener will typically run between $150 and $500 with another $65 to $85 an hour for labor, which can run between two to six hours.
What is the toughest part of installing a garage door? ›Springs are some of the most complex aspects of installing a garage door that are difficult to handle, especially if you don't have the right tools to make the garage door installation easier. To minimize the chances of accidents, you should have at least two people to assist with the installation of the garage door.
Can one person install a garage door opener? ›Installing a garage door opener by yourself can be challenging but it's a cost-saving, worthwhile project. Approach the project slowly, and be sure to have an assistant nearby who you can call on.
How many hours does it take to install an exterior door? ›A typical door installation will take about four hours, but depending on the size and complexity of the door, it could be longer.
Do exterior doors need to swing in or out? ›
Exterior Doors
Positioning them on the inside makes them secure and keeps burglars from unhinging them. By contrast, screen doors or secondary glass doors will swing outward.
Exterior doors that swing inward are usually more secure than their outward-swinging counterparts. The hinges will only be visible from the inside of the home or building. Therefore, burglars and other nefarious individuals won't be able to easily remove them.
How much does Lowes charge to install a sliding door? ›If you are planning to purchase your doors from Lowe's, you can request an estimate using the tool on the company's website, or you can visit one of the stores to discuss the job in person. WCMA Net says you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 in labor costs for patio doors.
Are sliding doors more expensive? ›Sliding doors are less expensive and give homes a modern look with plenty of light. Both should be installed by professionals to ensure no structural problems arise.
How many hours does it take to install a sliding glass door? ›If you are replacing a patio door that operates smoothly, you may not need to alter the rough opening. However, if the old door was difficult to operate, check the rough opening carefully. After the rough opening is prepared, you'll need about four hours to install the door.
Can I install an exterior door myself? ›Can I install a door myself? Yes, but installing doors is harder than you might think, especially in older houses, which have usually settled. Also, installing a pre-hung door typically involves carpentry and replacing exterior and interior trim; and storm door installation usually first requires door assembly.
What is the difference between a barrier door and a security door? ›The difference between Security and Barrier Doors.
Both doors have the same frame and infill options, the only difference is the added security provided by a triple lock on the Security Door, this allows the door to conform to AS5039. Barrier doors have a single lock.
Do I need planning permission to move my front door? (Updated for 2023) Simply, your front door DOESN'T need planning permission if it falls within your permitted development rights, and that includes: Painting your front door and minor improvements (for example, a new letterbox)
How much does it cost to put in a door way? ›Average labor costs for a local door installation contractor will run you between $40 and $90 per hour. If you choose an experienced handyperson, the fees are typically less, about $30 to $40 per hour.
Is installing a door easy? ›Hanging or installing a door isn't as difficult as it may seem. Replacing an existing door is easy if the new door core is the same size. Installing a door in a new partition wall is also very easy if you buy a prehung door so you don't have to build the door frame yourself.
What type of entry door is most secure? ›
A reinforced steel door is one of the most secure types of front doors you can buy. They're made with thick, heavy-duty steel that's designed to withstand a lot of force. And, they usually have multiple locks to keep intruders out.
Which is better steel or aluminum security doors? ›A stainless steel security door is quite strong and durable. It is one of the most effective options to increase the security of your home and securing the points of entry around your property. On the other hand, aluminium security doors are relatively less durable and are not as strong.
Can security doors be broken into? ›Increased Strength. One of the main reasons for installing these kinds of doors is that they are incredibly strong and cannot be easily broken through. Burglars often use common methods like kicking the door in or using a crowbar, but steel security doors are much more resistant to these kinds of attacks.
Should doors swing in or out for security? ›Beyond code requirements, both inward- and outward-swinging doors have benefits. For example, inward-swinging doors are less likely to be blocked by debris, while outward-swinging doors provide more space within the safe room.