How Much is a New Front Door?
Let's get straight to it:
How much should a new front door cost installed in 2025?
A new front door costs between £115 – £2,089 in the UK to replace. Including front door installation costs, you should budget for between £165 – £2,209.
On average, a new composite front door costs somewhere in the range of £704 – £989. This is now one of the most popular types of front doors in the UK.
A new uPVC front door costs between £489 – £720. This is another popular choice in the UK — and is slightly more budget-friendly. uPVC doors are the most budget-friendly option in terms of material, starting at around £340.
The cost of a wooden front door varies depending on the type of wood. The price lands somewhere in the range of £165 – £342 for a pine front door, £1,049 – £2,209 for an oak front door, and between £364 – £999 for a mahogany door.
And if you want a new front door that's not off-the-shelf, then a new custom-made front door will cost between £1,050 – £4,020
.The cost of a replacement front door will mainly depend on the type of front door you choose to get (uPVC, composite, oak, mahogany, pine, or custom-made).
But what impacts new front door installation costs?
The cost of front door installation is impacted by factors such as the type of new front you want, the size of your front door frame, the number of tradespeople you'll need to hire for the job, ease of access, and your location in the UK.
Front door installation costs tend to be higher in the southeast of the UK (especially London), but lower in regions such as Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and the northern parts of England.
Front Door Installation Prices
| Type of Front Door | Labour Cost | Supply Costs | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| uPVC | £50 – £120 | £439 – £600 | £489 – £720 |
| Composite | £50 – £120 | £654 – £869 | £704 – £989 |
| Oak | £50 – £120 | £999 – £2,089 | £1,049 – £2,209 |
| Mahogany | £50 – £120 | £314 – £779 | £364 – £999 |
| Pine | £50 – £120 | £115 – £222 | £165 – £342 |
| Custom-made | £50 – £120 | £1,000 – £4,500 | £1,050 – £4,620 |
The size of your front door frame can significantly impact the overall cost. Additionally, the condition of the door frames should be considered, as it can affect both the installation process and the total expenses.
- How Much is a New Front Door?
- Factors Impacting the Cost of a Front Door
- How Much Is a New Front Door? (Supply Costs)
- Additional New Front Door Installation Costs
- Labour Costs to Install a New Front Door
- Types of Front Doors
- How Long Does It Take to Fit a New Front Door?
- Front Door Letterbox Installation Cost
- How Much Does Front Door Removal Cost?
- Getting the Best Prices
- Hiring a Professional
- FAQs
Factors Impacting the Cost of a Front Door
When budgeting for a new front door, several factors can influence the overall cost. Understanding these elements can help you make an informed decision and avoid unexpected expenses.
Type of Door: The type of door you choose significantly impacts the cost. Composite doors, known for their durability and security, tend to be the most expensive. uPVC doors are a more budget-friendly option, while wooden doors vary in price depending on the type of wood used.
Materials: The materials used in the construction of the door also play a crucial role in determining the cost. For instance, composite doors often incorporate glass reinforced plastic (GRP) and polyurethane foam, which can drive up the price. On the other hand, uPVC and pine doors are generally more affordable.
Size: Larger doors require more materials and labour, which naturally increases the cost. If you have a non-standard door frame, you might need a custom-sized door, which can be more expensive.
Features: Additional features such as door furniture, letterboxes, and security bolts can add to the final cost. While these features enhance the functionality and security of your door, they also contribute to the overall expense.
Installation: The cost of installation can vary based on the complexity of the job and your location in the UK. For example, installation costs are typically higher in London and the southeast compared to other regions. Factors like ease of access and the condition of the installation area can also affect the price.
By considering these factors, you can better estimate the new front door costs and plan your budget accordingly.
How Much Is a New Front Door? (Supply Costs)
The total cost of a new front door can be broadly broken down into two components: the price of a new front door (i.e. the materials) and the cost of front door fitting charged by a tradesperson.
In this section, we’ll cover front door prices in the UK — which makes up about 60% - 70% of the total front door replacement cost you’ll need to budget for.
(These costs would apply on their own if you were to buy the materials for a DIY fit.)
New front door prices are between £439 – £600 for a uPVC front door, £654 – £869 for a composite front door, or £314 – £2089 for an oak front door. Double glazing can increase these costs but significantly enhances energy efficiency, making it a worthwhile investment. Grants are available to offset some of these costs, especially for environmentally friendly home improvements.
The material costs land around £314 – £779 for a mahogany front door, £115 – £222 for a pine front door, or £1000 – £4500 for a custom-made front door.
Front Door Prices (Supply Only)
| Type of Door | Front Door Price |
|---|---|
| uPVC | £250 – £450 |
| Composite | £500 – £2,500 |
| Oak | £300 – £1,800 |
| Mahogany | £300 – £1,450 |
| Pine | £120 – £1,100 |
| Custom-made | £1,000 – £3,900 |
Additional New Front Door Installation Costs
There are several extra costs that you might incur when having a new front door fitted.
The door fitting cost is crucial to consider, as it includes not only the price of the door itself but also the installation by qualified fitters. Proper installation can prevent issues like voiding warranties or needing costly adjustments later on. Locking mechanisms may add to the overall cost of a new front door.
Let’s consider some examples of what influences new front door installation prices that you’re quoted by tradespeople.
Minimum Fee
Sometimes, tradespeople will set a minimum front door replacement cost.
This may be a standalone fee or, in some cases, one that is part of the expected costs such as a daily labour fee.
Of course, a daily labour cost is unlikely to apply given that it usually takes up to half a day to have a new front door installed.
Front Door Size
As we've already touched on, material costs are the main thing that drives the cost of a new front door in the UK. However, the size of the door will also significantly impact the total cost of a new front door.
Front Door Materials
As discussed, the material that your front door is made from is the main cost factor.
uPVC and pine doors tend to be the cheapest options in the UK, but composite can be quite dear (with such doors often costing over £800 in supply costs alone). However, uPVC and composite doors offer significant advantages, such as superior durability, low maintenance requirements, and excellent insulation properties compared to traditional timber doors.
As for front door types, the costs can vary significantly, from a simple timber entry door to a security door. Custom-made doors are another example of a more expensive option.
Number of Tradespeople
In the vast majority of cases, only a single door fitter will be needed to install a new front door. However, if a second labourer is needed, this would obviously double the overall labour costs.
Should you need two tradespeople to work on installing a new front door, this would likely reduce the total time needed to complete the job. So whether this will prove an added cost overall will depend on how well the door fitters work as a team.
Other Door Replacements
If you have a porch or patio door leading to the front door of your property, you may wish to have them both replaced at the same time so the two entrances are matching.
Likewise, if either have bifold doors, it's an opportunity to have these updated too.
Depending on your overall budget, you might also consider a new garage door for consistency throughout the outside of your home.
In some instances, it could also be an opportunity to start work on other areas of your house. At which point having a new front door could easily lead onto replacing windows as part of a much larger renovation project.
Duration
In general, the longer a front door installation takes, the higher the total new front door cost you'll pay will be.
However, you'll find that many tradespeople will quote new front door installation costs with fixed labour prices. This is because the duration of this type of job tends to be quite consistent, so it's easier to pin down how long it'll take them to replace a front door.
Labour Costs to Install a New Front Door
Although this isn’t the most significant factor that impacts how much front door replacement costs, labour costs are (generally) the second most important price element for having a new front door fitted.
We’ll now take a look at the labour costs for fitting a new front door and the cost factors involved. It's important to consider the overall door fitting cost, which includes not just the door itself but also the installation by qualified fitters. Proper installation can help avoid issues such as voiding warranties or the need for costly adjustments later on.
Given that the average time it takes to fit a new front door is the same for various types, the labour costs will end up around £50 – £120. The average daily labour cost of hiring a door fitter is approximately £150 – £200.
Among the factors determining the labour cost are ease of access, the state of the work area, and location.
Types of Front Doors
In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the various options you have when it comes to having a new front door installed.
One popular option is the uPVC door, known for its economical pricing, especially in the UK market. uPVC doors are available as supply-only or fully fitted, offering affordability and a range of benefits compared to composite doors.
We’ll cover the pros and cons of each option and the average front door costs for different types of materials.
uPVC Front Door Cost
Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) doors are a cheap but sufficient option. They are highly resistant to the weather and much more than the average wooden front door, have low maintenance (should last for 35+ years), and are not so prone to warping.
However, uPVC doors aren't everyone's cup of tea due to their look. Further, they can discolour and lose strength over time.
Regardless of that, they remain one of the most popular options in the UK.
The average uPVC front door cost is between £439 – £600 in 2024.
Pros:
- Cheap but sufficient
- Weatherproof
- Low-maintenance
- Tends to be durable
- Doesn't warp easily
Cons:
- Can lose colour and strength
- Aesthetic not as popular
Composite Front Door Cost
This type of door consists of several materials that are pressed together and glued under very high pressure. The materials used are chosen for the positive properties they come with to maximise the quality of the door.
A composite door tends to be a lot thicker than uPVC doors. They tend to be strong, secure, durable, and resistant to the elements. They also require little maintenance, are thermally efficient, and have a modern aesthetic.
While the initial purchase price and installation cost of a composite door may be higher, the long-term value and energy efficiency benefits make it a worthwhile investment.
Over the years, this type of door has become increasingly popular in the UK.
But how much does a composite front door cost in 2024?
In the UK, the average cost of composite front doors is between £654 and £869.
Pros:
- Strong and secure
- Noise reduction
- Thermally efficient
- Low maintenance
- Offers a modern aesthetic
Cons:
- Less affordable than uPVC front doors
Solid Oak Front Door Cost
The first traditional timber-based option on our list is that of solid oak.
The value of doors made from solid oak is that they create a stylish and classic appearance and can be resized relatively easily.
It's also easy to change the colour of solid oak doors whenever you want (you can have a blue, white, red, black, or even grey front door).
They can also be sourced sustainably. However, solid oak doors are not weather-resistant, and they are not as durable as uPVC or composite doors. They can also become warped and weather-beaten over the years.
The average cost of a solid oak door is between £999 – £2089.
Pros:
- Stylish and classic
- Colour can be changed
- Can be sourced sustainably
- Natural material
Cons:
- Doesn't last as long as uPVC or composite doors
- Require regular maintenance
- Not weather-resistant
- Can end up weather-beaten and warped
Mahogany Front Door Cost
The next choice is mahogany. Though it sounds more expensive, mahogany front doors costs don't tend to be higher than solid oak front doors. The average cost of a mahogany front door is roughly £314 – £779 (though it does depend on the quality of the door).
These doors are insect and decay-resistant, visually appealing, can be re-decorated and as with solid oak doors, are made from a natural material.
However, it is not generally as sustainable or as eco-friendly as most types of timber doors and needs to be resealed or re-stained every so often.
Pros:
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Can be easily re-decorated
- Resistant to insects and decay
- Natural material
Cons:
- Not as eco-friendly as other options
- Should be resealed or re-stained from time to time
Pine Front Door Cost
The cheapest front door option you will have is one that's made of pine.
Pine front door costs can be as low as £115, but they can extend up to (and beyond) £222 in the UK. As well as being a budget-friendly front door choice, they're easy to maintain and you can repair or change their colour whenever you wish.
On the other hand:
Pine doors are prone to denting (as they're a softwood option), they are more vulnerable to weather damage, and have a relatively short life expectancy of 10 – 20 years. They aren't a sustainable option either.
Pros:
- Cheap front door option
- Straightforward to sand
- Colour can be easily changed
Cons:
- Not particularly durable
- Susceptible to weather damage
- Pine isn't eco-friendly
Aluminium Front Door Cost
Aluminium front doors are a modern and sturdy option known for their strength and sleek appearance, while often chosen for their longevity and low maintenance.
They can offer excellent security and are weather resistant. Aluminium doors are often thinner than the alternatives, however still maintain durability, giving a more contemporary look.
One drawback is that aluminium can conduct heat, so without proper thermal breaks, these doors may be less energy efficient. However, most modern aluminium doors come with insulation features to combat this issue.
The average cost for an aluminium front door ranges between £700 – £1,200, depending on design and customization.
Pros:
- Made from a strong and durable material
- Sleek, modern and aesthetically pleasing appearance
- Excellent security characteristics
- Very low maintenance
- Good weather resistance
Cons:
- Can conduct heat without insulation
- Typically more expensive than uPVC
Steel Front Door Cost
Known for their exceptional strength and adding a layer of extra security, steel front doors are ideal for those whereby the safety of your household is a priority.
Although a new steel front door can cost between £800 and £1,300 (depending on the design and any additional features) they are known to be highly durable while requiring very little maintenance.
Steel front doors can also potentially be heavy, but this is offset by the fact they are unlikely to warp or be susceptible to extreme weather conditions. Plus they are often insulated to help improve energy efficiency.
The average cost of a steel front door is typically between £800 – £1,300, depending on the design and any added security features.
Pros:
- Extremely strong and secure
- Relatively low maintenance
- Durable and weather resistant
- They provide an extra layer of insulation
Cons:
- Heavier choice of material compared to others
- Often more expensive than regular uPVC or aluminium
- Although durable, can become dented or scratched
How Long Does It Take to Fit a New Front Door?
We'll now break down the durations involved in having a new door fitted. In this section, we'll also consider some of the most common factors in shaping the timeframe of fitting a new front door.
On average it takes 2 – 5 hours to have a new front door fitted, regardless of what type of front door you choose.
However, ease of access, the state of the installation area, and the number of tradespeople hired can also shape the duration of the work.
Since the door is being fitted from the outside, adverse weather can also prolong or delay the work.
Front Door Letterbox Installation Cost
If you need to replace an existing letterbox on your front door, then a basic plastic or metal fitting can cost as little as £10 to £25.
Alternatively, for a tougher material such as stainless steel or aluminium expect to pay between £25 to £80 or brass and copper can potentially cost even more.
When it comes to buying a new front door, interestingly, many come without a letterbox altogether. As a result, leaving homeowners scratching their heads over what to do next. In this instance you have two choices:
Install a Letterbox in Your Front Door
It may not be the most obvious job, but if you wish to keep your existing door then it is possible to modify it in order to fit a letterbox. However, it's worth noting this can easily cause permanent damage, or create an unwanted draft, if not done properly.
Wooden doors are the easiest to adapt, as a carpenter can then drill pilot holes in order to create a suitable gap using a jigsaw cutter. They would then use a sealant to finish the job, before installing your new letterbox.
Even though this may sound relatively straightforward, it's not a common job to be done, and isn't particularly practical when it comes to trying to uPVC or aluminum/steel doors if they haven't already got a letterbox in place.
Install an External Letterbox
If you're not likely to start modifying your new front door, then an external letterbox is a much easier alternative. They're simple to install and can either be wall-mounted, attached to a gate/fence or even freestanding.
It also means they can be placed in areas such as on a security gate or at the entrance to a driveway. Although be mindful that while the majority of models come with a security lock, that doesn't always make them tamper-proof, plus they also potentially leave your post exposed to the elements.
Most Common Types of Letterbox:
Below we take a look at the options available, along with how the material your door may influence your decision.
Slot Letterboxes: The classic choice that fits snugly into your door. They’re sleek but might require a bit of a hand from a professional to get them fitted just right.
Door Basket Letterboxes: An inside job, these catch your post without the need to slice a slot into your door. They’re a bit of a rare find but a clever solution if your door’s not up for the traditional approach.
Wall-mounted Letterboxes: Great if you don’t fancy altering your door. They go up on the wall and offer a bit of flexibility in style and security without messing with your door’s integrity.
Freestanding Letterboxes: Perfect if you want something a bit different. They stand on their own near your entrance and let you play around with design and placement, though they do need to be fixed to the ground.
Not all letterboxes are a match made in heaven with every front door.
The material and design of your door are big factors in deciding what type of letterbox you can go for:
Wooden Doors: They’re pretty accommodating, making it easier to fit slot letterboxes.
Composite Doors: Tough and cosy, but you might want a professional to make sure adding a letterbox doesn’t spoil their charm or efficiency.
uPVC Doors: Often come with a letterbox already, but if you’re thinking of switching it up, you’ll need to consider the door’s design and how well it keeps out the rain.
Metal Doors: A bit of a tough nut to crack for slot letterboxes due to the cutting involved. You might be better off with a wall-mounted or freestanding option here.
Deciding to add or change a letterbox isn’t just about practicality; it’s a chance to give your front door a bit of a personality boost. There’s a bit to think about – style, budget, door compatibility.
If you’re feeling a bit stuck, having a chat with a professional could help steer you towards the perfect letterbox that not only looks the part but plays it well too.
How Much Does Front Door Removal Cost?
You may decide to have a front door removed. This is most likely because you're having a new front door fitted but it's also possible that you're choosing to fill in the space with a wall if your home's entrance is relocated during a house renovation.
If you decide to have a front door removed, this job alone will cost between £40 – £180.
However, before any new work or installations are undertaken, the total cost of the job will likely be at least a few hundred pounds more than the estimate given above. Ultimately, it will depend on the nature of the replacement work.
Getting the Best Prices
Finding the best prices for a new front door requires a bit of research and comparison. Here are some tips to help you get the most value for your money:
Research: Start by researching different types of doors, materials, and features. Understanding what you need and want will help you make informed decisions and avoid overspending on unnecessary features.
Compare Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple suppliers and installers. Comparing prices and services will give you a better idea of the market rate and help you identify the best deals.
Check Credentials: Ensure that the suppliers and installers you consider are reputable and experienced. Check their credentials, qualifications, and insurance to avoid any potential issues down the line.
Ask About Discounts: Don’t hesitate to ask about any discounts or promotions that may be available. Some suppliers offer seasonal discounts or special deals that can significantly reduce the cost.
Consider Finance Options: If the upfront cost is a concern, explore finance options such as interest-free credit. Spreading the cost over time can make it more manageable and allow you to invest in a higher-quality door.
By following these tips, you can secure the best prices for your new front door without compromising on quality.
Hiring a Professional
Hiring a professional to install your new front door ensures a proper fit, enhanced security, and long-term durability. Here’s how to find the right professional for the job:
Research: Start by researching local installers and suppliers. Look for professionals with a solid reputation and extensive experience in front door installation.
Check Credentials: Verify the credentials of the installer, including their qualifications and insurance. This step is crucial to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.
Get Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple installers to compare prices and services. This will help you find a professional who offers the best value for your money.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from previous customers to gauge the installer’s reputation. Positive reviews and testimonials can provide peace of mind and assurance of quality work.
Ask About Guarantees: Inquire about any guarantees or warranties that may be available. A good installer will stand by their work and offer guarantees to protect your investment.
By taking these steps, you can hire a professional who will install your new front door to the highest standards, ensuring it looks great and functions perfectly for years to come.
FAQs
Q: Which paint is best for your front door?
It can depend on the type of front door you have, for example for wood acrylic latex paint is ideal due to its durability, especially when it comes to being flexible and crack-resistant during changes in the weather conditions.
Plastic or fiberglass doors tend to suit acrylic latex paint designed specifically for the same material, while providing good durability and color retention. If you have a metal door, then an oil-based paint formulated to prevent rust will help prevent general wear and tear.
In most cases, a semi-gloss finish is preferable for the type of finish, as this will make the door easier to maintain and straightforward to clean as and when needed.
Q: What is the standard front door size in the UK?
A: In the UK, the average size of a front door is 1981mm high and 726mm wide.
However, it's not uncommon for homes to have wider front doors. For example, to meet Part 'M' of the Building Regulations 2010 in England and Wales, doors should be 1981mm high and 838 wide to enable wheelchair access.
Q: How can I improve front door security?
A: If you're looking to enhance the security of an existing front door, then a good starting point is to assess whether you can install better quality front door locks. You could explore installing additional locks (like deadbolts), as well as reinforcing the door and frame.
Installing CCTV and security lights which provide coverage of the front of your property might also act as a deterrent against any intruders.
Alternatively, you could replace your current door with a security-focused front door. In which case as well as the type of locks the door has, enquire about reinforced frames, and toughened or laminated glass panels.
If you're interested in something more high-tech, it's also possible to install a door with an electronic entry pad.
Q: Can I fit a front door DIY?
A: You should only do so if you're completely sure of everything involved. This is because fitting a front door yourself (as part of a DIY project) could lead to injuries. This is especially so if you're planning to complete the job by yourself, as lifting and positioning the front door might be physically demanding.
In short, fitting a front door can be a tricky job. If you've any doubts, you should hire a professional front door fitter.
Q: How much value does a new front door add in the UK?
A: Recent research by SellHouseFast found that a new front door can add up to £4,000 to the value of a property. Interestingly, they found that the front door colour that adds the most value to a home is blue!
Apart from the potential increase in the value of your home, a new front door adds curb appeal and might be worth considering if you're looking to sell your home as quickly as possible.
How long does a customised front door take to arrive?
If you can't find the design you're after in the shops, or have specific requirements, then you could pay for a bespoke door. Although it may depend on the supplier, allow 4 to 8 weeks for it to be made and delivered.
The time required depends on how busy the supplier is with other fulfilling orders elsewhere, as well as any additional time required to tweak designs or order materials.
This can be a great idea if you're after something a little less conventional, or your property already has unique characteristics.
