Replacing an exterior door yourself costs €300 to €2,000 in materials, depending on material, size and specification. Having an exterior door replaced costs €800 to €4,000 including labour.
What Does It Cost to Replace an Exterior Door? DIY vs. Contractor
Cost Comparison
| Door Type | DIY (materials) | Contractor (all-in) | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard wooden door (73×201 cm) | €300 – €700 | €700 – €1,500 | €400 – €800 |
| uPVC door (83×201 cm, double glazing) | €500 – €1,200 | €1,200 – €2,500 | €700 – €1,300 |
| Aluminium door (83×201 cm, double glazing) | €800 – €2,000 | €1,800 – €4,000 | €1,000 – €2,000 |
| Wooden door with frame (full replacement) | €700 – €1,500 | €1,800 – €4,000 | €1,100 – €2,500 |
Standard Exterior Door Sizes
| Door Type | Frame Outside Dimension | Opening in Wall |
|---|---|---|
| Standard front door (narrow) | 83 x 201 cm | 84.5 x 203 cm |
| Wide front door | 93 x 201 cm | 94.5 x 203 cm |
| Back door (narrow) | 73 x 201 cm | 74.5 x 203 cm |
| Standard back door | 83 x 201 cm | 84.5 x 203 cm |
Always measure in three places – top, middle and bottom for width and height. Use the smallest measurement.
Wood, uPVC or Aluminium?
Wooden Door
Classic, warm but requires maintenance. Repaint every 5–8 years.
Guide price: €300–€900
uPVC Door
Most popular choice: virtually maintenance-free, good insulation, available in all RAL colours.
Guide price: €500–€1,500 (including frame and double glazing)
Aluminium Door
Premium choice: slim, modern, durable and maintenance-free.
Guide price: €800–€2,500
Security: Burglar Proofing
| Measure | Cost | Anti-Burglar Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-point lock | €80 – €200 | High |
| Security escutcheon (anti-snap protection) | €50 – €150 | High |
| Anti-burglary strip (around frame) | €30 – €80 | Medium-high |
| Security hinges | €30 – €80 per set | Medium |
Minimum recommendation: multi-point lock + security escutcheon. Total extra cost €150–€350 with significant improvement in security.
Materials List: Replace an Exterior Door (Door Only, Frame Stays)
| Material | Quantity | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior door to measure | 1 piece | €350 – €1,500 |
| Multi-point cylinder lock | 1 piece | €80 – €200 |
| Security escutcheon | 1 set | €50 – €150 |
| Hinges (3 pieces, stainless steel) | 1 set | €30 – €80 |
| Draught seal strip | 4 m | €15 – €40 |
| Threshold strip | 1 piece | €20 – €60 |
| Exterior sealant | 1 cartridge | €8 – €15 |
| Screws (stainless steel) | 1 box | €10 – €20 |
Step-by-Step: Replace an Exterior Door in 8 Steps
Step 1: Measure the Old Door and Order the New One
- Measure the frame opening: width (3x) and height (3x). Use the smallest measurement.
- Note the hinge side (left or right, inward or outward opening).
- Order the door to measure from a manufacturer.
Step 2: Remove the Old Door
- Open the door fully.
- Lift the door off its hinges. Ask someone to help – an exterior door weighs 30–80 kg.
- Remove the old hardware from the frame.
- Clean the frame of old paint layers, sealant and dirt.
Step 3: Check and Repair the Frame
- Check the frame for rot, damage or warping.
- Repair small rot with epoxy filler.
- Check the frame is still level and plumb.
Step 4: Adjust Hinge Positions (If Needed)
Chisel new hinge recesses if the new door has different hinge positions.
Step 5: Hang the New Door
- Set the bottom hinge loosely in the frame.
- Lift the door into position and fix the bottom hinge.
- Install remaining hinges.
- Check the door swings freely.
Step 6: Adjust the Door
- Check the gap around the door (3–4 mm uniform all round).
- Adjust the top hinge if the door is too wide at top or bottom.
- Plane the door if it rubs against the frame.
Step 7: Install Hardware
- Fit the cylinder lock (if not pre-drilled).
- Mount the security escutcheon.
- Mark and chisel the striker plate position in the frame.
Step 8: Draught Seals and Finishing
- Fit draught seals around the door in the frame rebate.
- Fit the threshold strip at the bottom.
- Seal the junction between frame and outer wall.
Common Mistakes When Replacing an Exterior Door
| Mistake | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Incorrect measurements | Door doesn’t fit | Measure at 3 points, use smallest |
| No security escutcheon | Cylinder vulnerable to snapping | Always fit security escutcheon |
| Leaving wooden door untreated | Rot within 2–3 years | Always primer + 2 coats exterior paint |
FAQs
What does it cost to replace an exterior door?
Just the door (frame stays) costs €350 to €1,500 in materials. Having it done costs €700 to €2,500.
Which material is best for an exterior door?
uPVC is the most popular choice for low cost and low maintenance. Wood is more attractive but requires upkeep. Aluminium is the most expensive but lasts longest.
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