Homeowners typically pay a broad range for exterior doors, driven by material, size, finish, and installation. The main cost factors include door type, whether the door is prehung, hardware, and labor time. This article compares fiberglass and wood doors on cost, with practical ranges in USD and clear drivers for price.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Door slab (unhung) | $350 | $700 | $1,200 | Fiberglass or wood raw slab; excludes frame |
| Prehung door with frame | $1,000 | $1,900 | $3,800 | Includes frame, hinges, and weatherstripping |
| Labor / installation | $200 | $600 | $1,400 | Depends on existing opening and finish work |
| Hardware & finishes | $80 | $250 | $1,000 | Handles, deadbolts, coatings |
| Delivery / disposal | $50 | $150 | $400 | varies by distance and old door removal |
| Permits / codes | $0 | $50 | $300 | Needed for some municipalities |
Assumptions: standard 36×80 in exterior door opening, 1-3/4 in thickness, standard hardware, non-custom finish. Regional labor and material choices can shift totals.
Overview Of Costs
Fiberglass doors typically balance cost with durability, offering moderate to high insulation at a lower maintenance burden, which influences long-term cost. Wood doors often command higher upfront prices but can provide a traditional aesthetic and potential resale appeal. The total cost ranges reflect door slab versus prehung options, local labor rates, and finish choices. In general, fiberglass prehung doors fall in the $1,000-$3,000 range, while wood prehung doors span roughly $1,800-$5,000, with premium hardwood configurations exceeding that in some markets.
Cost Breakdown
The breakdown below compares fiberglass and wood doors across common cost components for a standard exterior install.
| Component | Fiberglass | Wood |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | $600–$1,400 | $900–$2,800 |
| Labor | $200–$700 | $300–$900 |
| Equipment | $50–$150 | $50–$150 |
| Permits | $0–$75 | $0–$75 |
| Delivery/Disposal | $50–$150 | $50–$150 |
| Warranty | $0–$120 | $0–$300 |
| Contingency | 5–15% | 5–15% |
Assumptions: standard entry door size; no major framing repairs; local hardware and installers with typical warranty options.
What Drives Price
Size, finish, insulation, and hardware are major price drivers for both materials, with fiberglass often offering better energy efficiency per dollar and lower maintenance costs over time. Key variables include door size beyond the standard 36×80 opening, insulation value (R-value), glazing options, and the level of precision in fit and finish. For wood, species selection (pine vs. oak vs. exterior hardwood) and protective finishes influence both upfront price and upkeep needs. Regional labor costs and supply chain conditions also shape final numbers.
Ways To Save
Consider mid-range materials, standard sizes, and reputable installers to reduce overall cost without sacrificing reliability. Savings can come from choosing prehung doors with factory-primed finishes, selecting standard hardware packs, and scheduling installation in off-peak seasons. Additionally, evaluating energy-rated doors and matching weatherstripping to climate can reduce long-term energy costs, offsetting higher initial prices.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor markets, material availability, and local building codes. In the Northeast, expect higher installation labor and potential permit costs; the Midwest often balances moderate material costs with stable labor; the West may show elevated delivery and premium hardware pricing. Typical regional deltas are within ±10–25% from a national baseline, depending on city size and contractor demand.
Labor & Installation Time
Labor hours directly affect total installation cost, with most standard single-entry door jobs taking 4–8 hours for a trained crew. Fiberglass doors can reduce finish-time versus wood, especially if painting or staining is minimized. For custom color or detailed millwork on wood doors, expect longer installation windows and higher labor charges. The labor hour range translates to roughly $60–$150 per hour in most markets, with variation by crew skill and weather.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario snapshots illustrate typical quotes for common configurations.
-
Basic Fiberglass, Standard Size:
Assumptions: unglazed slab, no custom finish, standard hardware.- Materials: $650
- Labor: $350
- Delivery/Disposal: $90
- Permits/Taxes: $40
- Warranty: $80
- Total: $1,210
-
Mid-Range Wood, Prehung, Composite Frame:
Assumptions: medium-hardwood, basic stain, standard hardware.- Materials: $1,600
- Labor: $680
- Delivery/Disposal: $110
- Permits/Taxes: $60
- Warranty: $150
- Total: $2,600
-
Premium Wood Exterior, 1-3/4 in, Custom Finish:
Assumptions: exterior hardwood, deluxe hardware, glazing options.- Materials: $3,000
- Labor: $1,100
- Delivery/Disposal: $180
- Permits/Taxes: $100
- Warranty: $350
- Total: $4,730
Assumptions: regional costs vary; exact quotes depend on opening condition and chosen finish.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Over the life cycle, fiberglass doors typically incur lower maintenance costs than wood doors due to resistance to moisture and warping. Wood doors may require periodic sealing or repainting to maintain appearance and protection, which adds recurring costs. Five-year cost outlooks often show fiberglass offering lower repainting and repair exposure, while wood doors may show higher long-term refinishing needs and, in some climates, potential susceptibility to warping or rot without proper treatment.