Door Frame Replacement Cost

How much does it cost to fit a new door and frame?

On average, the typical cost of door frame replacement is around £430, but this price depends on various factors.

We'll go over everything you need to know about replacing a door frame including the costs for different types of door frames including hardwood, bi-fold, panelled, and more. If you want to remove and replace door frames in your home, this guide has everything you need!

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How Much Does Installing a Door Frame Replacement Cost?

If you install a new door frame in your household, it will most likely last for decades. Purchasing new door frames and upgrading your home is becoming more popular because it increases the home's value. For external door sets, replacements count as a “controlled fitting” under Building Regulations. Either use a Competent Person Scheme installer (e.g. FENSA or Certass) who self-certifies, or notify Building Control yourself. Like-for-like internal frames don’t usually need sign-off.

So, how much does a replacement door frame cost?

Depending on the size, a hardwood door frame could cost anywhere between £60 to £800. If you have a uPVC door, you will also require a uPVC door frame, generally included in the price.

It is recommended that you hire a local carpenter for this task, but if you want to do it yourself as a DIY job, purchase a frame kit because the joints are frequently pre-cut for ease of assembly.

An exterior door frame replacement costs around £160, while repairing a door frame costs about £150. Repairing a French door frame costs roughly the same as repairing a sliding door frame, though these doors may be more expensive to repair due to the variety of frames than standard doors.

You may discover that tackling specific repair tasks on your own makes you feel more at ease. For example, it is possible that repairing a door frame will be less expensive than replacing it or installing a new door.

However, if your door frame is badly damaged or requires repairs that are more than simple fixes, including a sagging frame, a stuck door, or damaged hinges, you should contact a local carpenter.

New Door Frame Prices

The average cost of a door frame replacement:

A basic interior door frame costs between £115 and £225 to replace. The cost of your door will be determined by its style, size, quality, and frame. Speciality doors, including French, sliding, or barn doors, require unique frames that cost £200 or more.

You have several options for repairing your door frame. Installing a pre-hung door frame kit costs around £100 and £450. Pre-hung door kits provide a pre-assembled door, hinge hardware, and drilled openings for only a handle and lock.

A rotten door frame repair typically costs around £100 and £300, based on the damage and rot. If your complete door needs to be replaced, the costs can quickly escalate. The cause of the problem is usually what the homeowner pays the most for. If water invasion is discovered, you should budget for installing storm doors, roofs, or overhangs.

The type of door you install will significantly impact both the aesthetic and financial aspects of your home. Some door styles to consider are listed below and their average purchase price per unit, excluding installation labour fees. You should budget £50 for labour costs per door.

Depending on the type of door frame you need, the costs will be as follows:

• Wooden door frame costs: £15 to £20 per metre.
• Composite door frame costs: £30 to £35 per metre.
• Metal door frame costs: £100 to £300.

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Additional New Door Frame Costs

You may consider having additional work done when replacing your door frames to give your home a brand-new look. However, some work might be necessary as a result of replacing your door frames and you should budget for these tasks before starting your project.

Let's go over the extra costs of replacing a door frame so you know what to expect:

New Front Door Cost

Your front door gives visitors and passers-by their first impression of your home. A front door is the first thing you see when you get home. If your current front door isn't looking its best, it's a good idea to replace it.

The cost of replacing a front door in the UK varies greatly depending on the type of door being installed, your location within the UK, and the complexity of the job. However, a standard front door should cost between £500 and £2,500, while a custom-made door can cost between £2,000 and £4,500.

If your front door looks a little grimy or faded, it may not be necessary to replace it entirely unless you are attempting to create a completely new aesthetic for your home. For example, if you have a wooden door, sometimes a fresh coat of paint is all that is required to completely transform it.

If it is just the frame that looks a bit worse for wear, then you’ll want a front door frame replacement. A front door frame replacement cost can vary depending on the damage and the size of the door frame.

Painting a Room Cost

Because paint doesn't last forever, you will eventually have to consider redecorating your bedroom. Hiring a professional painter and decorator on a budget may seem counter-intuitive, but contractors can save you time and stress.

A standard 4m by 3m room would take a few days to paint completely, including woodwork or coving. Outside of London, most decorators charge around £150 to £200 per day, so your total labour cost would be around £300 to £400. Adding another £50 for the paint supply results in a total of £400 as the cost of repainting your room.

Painting Exterior Doors Cost

The average cost of painting an exterior door depends on the size, type, and material of the door and how many coats of paint or primer are required.

Typically, painting an exterior door without additional work can cost around £150. However, painting an exterior door with glass panels that require knotting and sanding can cost £250 per door.

Depending on the type of door, size, number of coats required, and material, an exterior door paint job can take anywhere between 2 to 4 hours. In addition, you might be looking to replace the previous paint job, necessitating sanding.

If you want a low-cost option, you can do it yourself. However, if you want the job done correctly, it's always in your long-term interest to find a qualified painter and decorator.

Painting Skirting Boards Cost

The price you'll pay for having your skirting boards painted is affected by several factors, the most important of which is labour. Painting is a labour-intensive job, which means that while the materials are relatively inexpensive, the job still requires a significant amount of time, care, and attention.

Painting skirting boards costs around £200 on average for a basic 3m x 3m room, with materials pricing around £50, and labour accounting for £150. Based on how hard the job is and the size of the job, the work should not take more than one or two days.

Door Frame Replacement Labour Costs and Timescales

Here’s what most people want to know: how long does it take, and what’s the going rate?

• Typical day/half-day rate — £130 to £200 per day, depending on where you live and how much experience they have. Some carpenters price small jobs as a half-day but may have a minimum charge.
• Internal frame only (one with a similar style) — 1 to 3 hours once the opening is sound and square.
• External frame with pre-hung door set — probably 2 to 4 hours, including ironmongery and modifications.
• Frame and new ironmongery/locks from scratch — roughly 3 to 5 hours if there’s chiselling, drilling and careful alignment to do.
• Smartening and tidying up — allow 30 to 120 minutes for sealant, trims/architrave and a neat finish.

What adds time? Out-of-square openings, rotten timber to cut out, moving services in the reveal, limited access, or fitting a lintel if the opening is being altered (that last bit falls under Building Control).

What’s usually included? Standard prep (taking out the old frame/trim), fitting and basic making good. Waste removal is often included on small jobs (bagged and taken away). Larger amounts may need a skip — talk to your local professional (it’ll be in the quote).

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What Impacts Door Frame Replacement Costs?

When choosing your new door, several factors can influence the price. You should think about the following:

Location

Because tradespeople's prices vary across the country, the cost of replacing door frames will vary depending on where you live.

Hiring costs in the southeast, on the other hand, are typically greater than the average, particularly in London. However, costs are generally lower in the north of England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland than in the rest of the country.

Minimum Charge

Some labourers will charge a flat fee regardless of the size of the job, your location, or the time it takes the tradesperson to arrive at your home. However, this is unlikely to apply in most cases, and if it does, it will be added to your total bill.

Most tradespeople's websites include a cost breakdown, which should provide you with all the information you need. If one is not available, you can always contact them by phone or email to determine what prices will be displayed.

Amount of Tradespeople

The cost of replacing a door frame is also determined by the number of tradespeople required, which is influenced by the size and type of door frames required. Therefore, the greater the number of tradespeople required, the more costly the installation.

The Material You Select

Door frames are available in various materials, including composite, wood, and uPVC. Each material has varying costs, so consider the material you want and how much it's likely to cost when considering new door frames. Investing in a higher-quality, more expensive door frame will ensure that it is as safe as possible and will last for many years.

The Door's Design

Door frames are available in various materials and styles, which can affect the price of the door frame.

What's Involved in Installing a Door Frame Replacement?

Here’s what your local carpenter will most likely do on the day.

Before the Job

• Survey and measuring — Check the opening is plumb and square, measure up (width at top/middle/bottom and height both sides), and confirm door swing and ironmongery (locks, latches, handles).
• Protection — Dust sheets down, floors covered, and a quick chat on waste removal and where tools can be set up.

During the Job

• Remove the old set — Take off the architrave or trim, carefully strip out the existing frame and door, and clear the fixings.
• Prep the opening — Check for rot or damage, and pack or repair as needed so the new frame sits true.
• Fit the new frame — Plumb, level and fix the frame with suitable screws or packers, keeping consistent gaps for a smooth close.
• Hang the door and ironmongery — Hang the leaf, bring the hinges into line, fit the latch or lock, and adjust so it closes cleanly without rubbing.
• Final touches — Refit architrave or trim, apply sealant where it’s needed, and sort out edges ready for the paint or finish.

After the Job

• Final checks — Test swing, latch and lock, confirm clearances, and make any tiny tweaks.
• Finish and aftercare — Advise on priming or painting (for timber), keeping sealant joints neat, and how to sidestep swelling or sticking.
• Paperwork (if relevant) — If the opening has been changed (e.g., new lintel/size alteration), this may need Building Control sign-off. Your carpenter will warn you about this ahead of time.

Can I Install a Door Frame Replacement Myself?

If you’re handy and have a helper, then, yes, it’s possible. A pre-hung kit is the simplest route. Why? Because the joints and hinges are already sorted. You’ll still need to get the frame plumb and square, then fix it securely. Then, finally, make a smart seal.

Unsure or dealing with an outside door? A local carpenter is the safer option for security and weatherproofing. In that case, check what the cost to hang an internal door looks like before you decide.

You’ll need a few basic tools (no need to buy the fanciest versions): tape measure, pry bar, hammer, wood chisel, utility knife, panel saw, drill/driver, packers/shims, spirit level, sealant/foam, and a second pair of hands.

Things to Consider

• Pre-hung vs made on site — Pre-hung saves time and trouble. If your opening isn’t standard, site-made may fit better.
• External doors — Security and weatherproofing carry more weight — if in doubt, hire a local professional.
• Make it square — Frames must be plumb and level. Shims/packers do the bulk of the work here.
• Rot and damage — Soft spots, swelling or splits? Small patches can be filled and repainted, but widespread rot usually means a new frame is the sensible fix.

Building Regulations and Planning Permission for Installing a Door Frame Replacement

Planning Permission

• You won’t normally need planning permission for like-for-like replacements. Swapping an external door and frame with something alike is generally okay under permitted development.
• When you might need it — listed buildings, flats or maisonettes (often harsher rules), Article 4/conservation areas, or if you’re making a material change to the external appearance (e.g., changing opening size or style dramatically).
• Enlarging or moving an opening — If you’re adjusting the structure (like, widening the doorway or creating a new one), that’s a separate consideration and can trigger planning and/or building control sign-off.

Building Regulations

• External doors/frames are “controlled fittings” — Replacements must meet Building Regs. You can either use a Competent Person Scheme installer (e.g., FENSA/Certass) who self-certifies, or notify Building Control for sign-off.
• Thermal performance (Part L) — the new external door set needs to meet current energy efficiency standards.
• Fire safety (Part B) — some doors must be fire-rated (e.g., between an integral garage and the house, or where your existing layout requires a fire door). Don’t downgrade an existing fire door.
• Security (Part Q) — applies to new dwellings and some conversions — check if applicable. Good practice is a door set that meets recognised security standards.
• Access (Part M) — keep thresholds sensible and safe. Don’t make access worse for wheelchair/pram users when you replace a door with something similar.
• Structure (Part A) — if you alter the size of the opening, you may need a lintel or structural support and Building Control sign-off.
• Ventilation/airtightness (Part F & general good practice) — finish with suitable seals. Never leave gaps that cause draughts or water ingress.

Quick rule of thumb: if you’re exchanging an internal door/frame for something pretty much the same, you’ll rarely need Building Control. External door/frame replacements do need to comply — either via a scheme installer who issues a certificate, or through your local authority.

Types of Door Frame Replacement

Door frames are an important safety consideration that is usually ignored. No matter how strong the door or how well the locks are protected, if the door hinge is drilled into a flimsy frame, it can be kicked down in a second by someone determined to do so.

Because most locks and deadbolts protrude into and rely on the door frame for support, choosing the proper frame ensures that your doors are securely attached.

This section will go over the various types of door frames to decide which one is best for your home!

Wooden Door Frames

Wooden door frames typically cost between £15 and £20 per metre.

Wood is widely used because it’s easy to cut and shape with standard tools. It also insulates better than metal and doesn’t suffer from condensation in the same way.

Wooden frames have a very good and appealing appearance in the building but provide whatever finish the architect requires. If you are unhappy with the outcome, wooden door frames can be painted or polished in any colour and will not rust! In addition, wooden frames require little maintenance and last a long time if strong wood is used.

Wooden door frames are susceptible to termites or insects, and good-quality timber is costlier. As a result, they cost more than metal frames but less than aluminium frames.

Pros

✔ It is not affected by temperature

✔ Attractive in the home

Cons

✖ Expensive

Composite Door Frames

Composite door frames are composed of various elements and materials. There is a strong, solid, veneered, and laminated timber core included. Composite exterior door frames come in various styles, sizes, and other layouts. Composite frames are durable, well-insulated, and less prone to scratches and scuffs.

The most important drawback of composite doors is their high price. They are extremely expensive when compared to other materials. Despite this, the benefits are various: they are strong and secure, require very little maintenance, are long-lasting, and provide sound and weather insulation.

Considering the flaws of single-material doors, composed door frames are made of durable, aesthetically pleasing, and long-lasting materials. In addition, the materials used are chosen for their effectiveness in removing old flaws.

Due to smart manufacturing techniques, composite door frames have a long-lasting style and colour. These efficient techniques have resulted in weather-resistant composite door frames. As a result, they are the most durable choice for your home or office.

If you are concerned about spending your time and cost on the upkeep of these doors, keep your worries to a minimum. But, in a pinch, these doors can be your go-to solution.

Pros

✔ Available in various shapes and sizes

✔ Long-lasting

Cons

✖ It is the most expensive

Metal Door Frame

The two most popular metal door materials are aluminium and steel. They are less expensive than composite doors and have several advantages, including weather resistance, fire resistance, highly secure, and moisture and rot resistance. But unfortunately, they have disadvantages, including a less eye-catching appearance and rust susceptibility.

Aluminium door frames are highly resistant to moisture. Many aluminium frames come with an anodised finish (a protective oxide layer) that helps resist corrosion and scuffs.

This coating protects the door frames from corrosion and pitting/scratching while also making them resistant to humidity and careless handling.

Pros

✔ Less expensive

✔ Weather-resistant

Cons

✖ It is susceptible to scratches

Checklist: Hiring a Local Carpenter to Replace a Door Frame

Consider these quick checks before you book a carpenter:

• Do they fit doors and frames quite a lot (or not)? Ask about recent, comparable jobs (internal/external, timber/uPVC/composite, any fire-rated sets like FD30).
• What’s included in the quote? Double-check about the frame/liner, hinges, latch/lock, keeps, threshold/door bar, architrave, sealant, neat finishing, waste disposal, travel and VAT.
• Is waste removal part of it, too? Old frames or architraves and packaging should be taken away, or you’ll need to arrange a skip. Get it in writing.
• Timings and access: The usual fit time is around 1–3 hours per door frame. Check lead times, parking, and how they’ll get materials to the room.
• Insurance and guarantees: Do they have public liability insurance? Also, be sure to ask for a workmanship warranty (12 months is common).
• Photos and reviews: Check their MyJobQuote profile for before and after shots and feedback from similar door jobs.
• Regulations awareness: If you’re widening/narrowing the opening or adding a lintel, you may need Building Control sign-off. External doors may need security standards (e.g. PAS 24). Fire doors have severe rules in flats/garages.
• Hardware quality: Clarify hinge rating, lock/latch brand, and cylinder security for external sets.
• Finish and aftercare: Who’s priming or painting timber, sealing uPVC, and re-siliconing? Ask for care tips to stop any bulging or sticking.
• Payment terms: Agree on deposits, payment on completion, and what happens if extra work is uncovered.

Even if the first offer sounds okay, it’s best to get around three quotes from local carpenters. This will help you decide who to book when replacing your door frame.

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