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Highlights
- The typical cost to install French doors ranges between $2,000 and $5,000, with a national average cost of $3,500.
- Some of the main factors that influence French door installation cost include the door size, type, and material; the glass type; the hardware type; the installation location; and the cost of labor.
- French doors have many benefits, including security, customization options, versatility, functionality, increased natural light, and a potentially increased home value.
- A handy homeowner may be able to install French doors on their own, but a professional can ensure a tight seal and install the doors quickly; some door manufacturers may also require their products to be installed by a pro for the warranty to be valid.
Installing French doors is an excellent option for homeowners who want to create a bright and airy atmosphere in their home. These glass-paneled doors can be used on the exterior or interior of a home, and they come in various shapes and styles, including double, single, and sliding doors. How much does it cost to install French doors? According to Angi, homeowners will spend between $2,000 and $5,000, with many spending approximately $3,500. Depending on the size, type, materials, and location of the doors in the home, some homeowners can spend as little as $400 or more than $10,000 to install French doors.
French doors are typically installed in pairs with no frame in between so they can be opened to create a large doorway. There are also space-saving sliding French doors, including telescoping French doors, that can fully open up an entire wall. The labor cost to install French doors ranges from $70 to $120 per hour, with many homeowners spending between $140 and $600 for installation. It usually takes a professional between 2 and 5 hours to install French doors. Removing the old door and frame, measuring the space, installing the new frame and doors, and positioning the new hardware take time and careful technique. Homeowners will want to keep in mind that certain types of French doors cost more to install than others, and heavier French doors will cost even more. This guide will examine the important factors that influence the average cost to install French doors, additional costs and considerations that can change the final prices for French doors, the different types of French doors, and some salient questions to ask a professional about French doors and the installation process.
Factors in Calculating the Cost to Install French Doors
While many homeowners spend between $2,000 and $5,000 to install French doors, the overall price can vary from the national average due to some important factors. These can include door size, type, material, style, and brand; glass type; hardware type; installation location; and local labor prices. All of these can greatly affect the overall cost to install French doors.
Door Size
The bigger the French door, the more expensive the price. Larger French doors can increase the price by $100 to $500. While the standard size of a French door is 72 inches wide by 80 inches tall, there are other common sizes that measure from 30 to 96 inches wide for a pair of doors and 80, 84, or 96 inches tall. Wider doors require more materials and glass, which will increase the overall price.
Door Type
Traditional French doors are typically installed as a pair of side-by-side hinged doors that meet in the middle. Modern French doors are available in a variety of types and styles that can fit in with any decor design and space. Depending on the style, French doors can cost from $300 to $6,000. Homeowners will want to choose the type of door according to the size of the frame opening and the amount of clearance that is available for the doors to swing open. French doors can swing in or out, and sliding doors are an option in areas that don’t have the necessary clearance. Types of French doors include center hinged, double in-swing, double out-swing, single in-swing, single sliding, and telescoping sliding. Each of these door types is discussed in a section below.
Door Material
French door frames can be made from a variety of materials that range from budget-friendly vinyl to more expensive high-end hardwood. The overall cost of French doors depends on the materials. Below are the common materials used for French doors and the average price range for each, not including installation.
| French Door Material | Average Price Range (Materials Only) |
| Aluminum | $650 to $3,000 |
| Clad Wood | $2,500 to $3,500 |
| Fiberglass | $800 to $4,000 |
| Steel | $650 to $4,000 |
| Vinyl | $500 to $2,000 |
| Wood | $500 to $4,000 |
- Aluminum French doors. The cost for aluminum French doors ranges from $650 to $3,000. This low-maintenance material is lightweight and durable, although it’s prone to fading. Aluminum doesn’t insulate very well, so it’s most commonly used for exterior doors in moderate climates or for interior doors. It has a smooth appearance and is often offered in a black or white finish.
- Clad wood French doors. Clad wood French doors cost from $2,500 to $3,500. Homeowners who want the traditional look of wooden French doors that face the inside of the home and metal or aluminum for the outside often choose this material. The covered outdoor exterior of clad wood doors adds extra protection against the elements.
- Fiberglass French doors. Durable fiberglass French doors cost from $800 to $4,000 and are available in a range of colors and finishes. It’s a low-maintenance material and insulates well, making it a popular choice for exterior French doors. Fiberglass is lightweight and works well in a variety of climates.
- Steel French doors. The cost of steel French doors can range from $650 to $4,000. This durable material is popular in more contemporary and modern homes, and it’s used for telescoping French doors. Some homeowners prefer to leave the material unpainted for a more industrial look. Steel isn’t the best insulating material, so it’s mostly used for exterior doors in mild climates or for interior French doors.
- Vinyl French doors. Budget-friendly vinyl French doors cost from $500 to $2,000. Vinyl is a relatively low-maintenance material that can be cleaned easily. Available in various colors and finishes, it can also mimic wood grain texture. Vinyl French doors are commonly used as interior doors, since the material can warp in high temperatures and doesn’t insulate well against extreme temperatures.
- Wood French doors. Wood French doors cost from $500 to $4,000, on average. On the high end of the price range are durable hardwoods, such as walnut, oak, mahogany, cherry, and cedar. On the less expensive end are softer woods, such as pine, alder, and fir. Wood French doors are available prestained, painted, or unfinished, so a homeowner can customize the doors to their personal style.
Door Style
French doors are available in a variety of styles. Some styles will fit in with a specific architectural design more than others, and some homeowners opt for a custom-designed style that works the best with their home. Below are the most common readily available styles of French doors.
- Craftsman-style French doors. Most often framed with wood, Craftsman-style French doors typically mimic the window-glass pattern that’s found in Craftsman-style homes. They have a two-over-one-style window, meaning a single bottom panel of glass that’s topped with two glass panels that are the same height, with each one measuring half the width of the lower glass panel. A thin wooden frame divides each panel to maintain the Craftsman style.
- French country-style doors. Typically used as front entrances, French country-style doors use less glass than other styles. They’re usually made from hardwood and have an arched top, whether it’s the entire door that’s arched or just the glass area.
- Industrial-style French doors. Industrial-style French doors can swing in or out, or they can slide on a visible track mounted to the ceiling. Made from a thin metal frame, industrial French doors are usually installed in the interior of the house instead of on the exterior. The mullions, or the separators between each windowpane, are the same thickness as the frame, which means the majority of the door is made of glass.
- Modern farmhouse French doors. Modern farmhouse French doors are thinner and typically use less glass than traditional French doors. The bottom of the doors is finished with a wood (or metal) panel, and the glass stretches to the top and covers about ¾ of the door. Modern farmhouse French doors are usually made from wood and can be stained or painted to match the overall style of the home.
- Prairie-style French doors. Prairie-style French doors have a thicker frame than traditional French doors and feature intricately detailed glass panels. The decorative glass can be leaded and cut to showcase ornamental patterns and designs. Most commonly used as front doors, prairie-style French doors are popular in midcentury modern homes.
- Shaker-style French doors. Shaker-style French doors are frequently used as closet or pantry doors, since the glass is commonly frosted to block the view of what’s inside. They have a flat wooden frame with a solid glass panel in the center.
- Spanish-style French doors. Traditionally used as patio or courtyard doors, Spanish-style French doors have rectangular glass panels with no decorative elements. These double doors have a flat frame and are commonly painted a bright color or enhanced with a dark, rich stain.
- Victorian-style French doors. Victorian-style French doors feature ornately designed leaded-glass panels that typically showcase floral designs and patterns. It’s common for parts of the glass to be frosted to add to the intricate design. Victorian-style French doors are frequently used as interior doors or as spectacular front doors. The wooden frame is usually stained in a dark color to contrast with the elaborate designs on the glass.
Door Brand
French doors are available from many brands. Some manufacturers specialize in specific types and styles of French doors, while others make a variety of custom options for homeowners to choose from. With such a large selection and variety of features, homeowners can find the right energy-efficient material or style that works the best for their home and their budget. Below are some common brands of French doors and their average price ranges.
| French Door Brand | Average Price Range for Materials Only |
| Andersen | $2,500 to $4,000 |
| Jeld-Wen | $400 to $1,200 |
| Marvin | $3,000 to $6,000 |
| Milgard | $3,000 to $5,000 |
| Pella | $2,000 to $5,000 |
| ProVia | $3,000 to $6,000 |
- Andersen French doors. Andersen French doors cost from $2,500 to $4,000 and are available in wood and aluminum. The wood doors are available in a variety of wood species, and the aluminum doors can be customized in more than 40 colors. Homeowners will want to keep in mind that the more customizations the French doors have, the more expensive the price.
- Jeld-Wen French doors. Commonly found at most big-box stores, Jeld-Wen French doors cost from $400 to $1,200. They are made from fiberglass, steel, or wood and are available as single or double French doors for interior or exterior installation. The wood options range from softwoods, such as pine, to durable and long-lasting hardwoods.
- Marvin French doors. Marvin French doors typically range from $3,000 to $6,000 and come in a variety of materials, many of them Energy Star certified. The wooden French doors are manufactured from durable hardwood species, and Marvin offers an array of glass options at differing efficiency levels.
- Milgard French doors. Milgard French doors run from $3,000 to $5,000 and are available as single-hinged, double-hinged, and sliding doors. Specializing in high-end vinyl French doors, Milgard makes options for interior or exterior use in limited colors.
- Pella French doors. Pella French doors cost from $2,000 to $5,000 and come in a selection of materials, such as vinyl, fiberglass, and wood, and in many styles for indoor or outdoor use. Available in a range of different wood species and colors, Pella French doors include double out-swing, in-swing, and sliding styles.
- ProVia French doors. ProVia French doors range in cost from $3,000 to $6,000. These high-quality exterior French doors can be customized to match the design of any home with added transoms, side panels, and more. ProVia offers its Energy Star–certified French doors in a variety of materials and glass options.
Glass Type
The type of glass used in French doors affects the overall cost. While interior doors can use a single pane of tempered or laminated glass, exterior doors need double- or triple-pane glass for improved energy efficiency and safety. Below are the different types of glass used in French doors and the average price range for each.
| Type of French Door Glass | Average Price Range for Materials Only |
| Double-pane | $700 to $3,000 |
| Laminated | $500 to $1,200 |
| Tempered | $400 to $1,700 |
| Triple-pane | $800 to $5,000 |
- Double-pane French door cost. French doors that have double-pane glass are more energy efficient and insulate better than single-pane glass. The two panes of glass trap air in between and provide increased insulation and reduced thermal transfer. Double-pane French doors cost from $700 to $3,000.
- Laminated French door cost. Laminated glass features a glass pane in between two layers of resin. The resin protects the glass against breakage from an impact. If the glass does break or crack, the resin will hold the glass inside the frame so it won’t fall out. French doors with laminate glass range in price from $500 to $1,200.
- Tempered French door cost. Tempered glass, also known as safety glass, breaks apart in small pieces rather than sharp shards. Since the smaller chunks of glass are less likely to cut and pierce through skin if the glass breaks, tempered glass is considered a safer option to install in French doors. This type of glass can be used in exterior and interior French doors and costs from $400 to $1,700.
- Triple-pane French door cost. As the most expensive of the glass options for French doors, triple-pane glass uses three layers of glass to insulate against extreme temperatures. Many homeowners who live in extreme climates may choose triple-pane glass for their exterior French doors due to the increased energy efficiency. French doors with triple-pane glass range in price from $800 to $5,000.
Hardware Type
French door hardware comes in a few styles and options with or without locks. Some of the most common hardware types are lever handles, fixed pulls with a thumb latch, and cremone bolts. Each type of hardware can be simple or decorative and made from a variety of materials. Lever handles and pulls are typically the most common and can be locked from the outside. Cremone bolts run the length of the door, bolting at the top and bottom and locking from the inside. Cremone hardware can also be combined with a lever handle or pull that locks from the outside to increase French door security. Below are the average price ranges for French door hardware.
| Type of French Door Hardware | Average Price Range for Materials Only |
| Cremone | $100 to $500 |
| Lever | $50 to $200 |
| Pulls | $50 to $800 |
Installation Location
Since French doors can be installed as both interior and exterior doors, the average installation cost can vary. Exterior French doors typically cost between $500 and $2,200 more than exterior doors, and double doors cost more than single options. While it may be tempting to buy a less expensive interior door to use as an exterior door, doing so is not advised, since interior doors are lighter and less energy efficient. Below are some common locations to install French doors and their impact on the overall cost.
| Installation Location | Average Price Range for Materials and Installation |
| Brick wall | $2,500 to $6,000 |
| Exterior | $1,250 to $4,500 |
| Existing doorway | $750 to $4,500 |
| Interior | $750 to $1,100 |
- Cost to install French doors in a brick wall. Installing French doors in a brick wall costs the most, since the brick needs to be cut in order to create the opening for the doors. Installation costs and labor can increase by more than $1,000 over the cost of other installation locations, which can bring the project total to between $2,500 and $6,000. Once the brick is cut and the opening is created, the framing needs to be installed. The overall installation price varies according to the type and style of French door used.
- Cost to install exterior French doors. The overall cost to install exterior French doors ranges from $1,250 to $4,500. Exterior French doors are more expensive because they’re thicker, heavier, and more energy efficient than indoor options. The installation can take between 2 and 6 hours, since the doors need to be sealed correctly to ensure proper insulation against extreme temperatures. If the French doors are prehung in their frames, the installation can be fairly easy.
- Cost to install French doors in an existing doorway. Installing French doors in an existing opening can cost from $750 to $4,500. Removing an existing door can increase the overall price over the price of installing French doors as part of new construction.
- Cost to install interior French doors. The cost to install French doors for interior use runs from $750 to $1,100. Interior French doors are lighter, easier to install, and less expensive than exterior French doors. Typically installed in just a few hours, interior French doors are usually double doors, although a single French door can be used as a replacement for an existing door.
Labor
Many professionals charge between $400 and $1,500 for French door installation, depending on the difficulty of the project. A retrofit typically costs more than new construction, and interior doors cost less than exterior ones. If a homeowner decides to install more than one set of French doors at the same time, some manufacturers may offer a discount on the cost. Below are the average labor price ranges to install different types of French doors.
| Type of French Doors | Average Price Range for Labor |
| Center-hinged | $800 to $1,200 |
| Double in-swing | $800 to $1,200 |
| Double out-swing | $900 to $1,400 |
| Single in-swing | $400 to $600 |
| Single sliding | $600 to $900 |
| Telescoping | $900 to $1,500 |
Additional Costs and Considerations
When budgeting for the cost to install French doors, homeowners will find that there are additional price factors and considerations that can change the total project cost. These can include the difference in price for prefabricated versus custom French doors, replacement of an existing door or window, painting and finishing costs, storm door installation, additional security features, and accessories.
Prefabricated vs. Custom French Doors
Custom French doors cost more than prefabricated options and range in price from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on material, glass type, style, size, and level of customization. On average, custom French doors are 10 percent to 30 percent more than prefabricated ones.
Existing Door or Window Replacement
French door replacement cost ranges from $2,500 to $6,000, depending on the complexity of the job. This price usually includes the removal of the old door or window, disposal, and installation of the new door. Interior doors cost less to replace than exterior French doors, since they’re lighter and easier to install. If the old door is in good shape, the installation company may be interested in buying it or providing an installation discount so the door can be used for another project. If the door is in bad shape, it may be recyclable, depending on the material. French doors that are difficult to remove or cannot be reused or recycled typically cost more to replace.
Adding French doors when replacing sliding glass doors costs from $1,300 to $5,000, including the removal and disposal of the old door and installation of the new one. The overall costs vary because of the weight, size, and material of the replacement French doors. If a homeowner wants to replace a window with French doors, the cost ranges from $2,000 to $6,000. The price is influenced by the wall material and the size of the window. The window will need to be removed and the area enlarged to fit the new French doors, resulting in higher installation costs.
Painting and Finishing
While fiberglass and vinyl French doors don’t need to be painted, some homeowners prefer a painted look for their doors. Painting French doors can cost from $150 to $200 per side, depending on how much surface area needs to be painted.
Storm Door Installation
For homeowners who prefer extra protection for their exterior French doors, storm doors are an excellent option. Storm doors for French doors can cost from $150 to $600, and a DIY kit to convert regular storm doors to fit French doors costs approximately $150.
Additional Security Features
Extra security features for French doors can cost between $30 and $800. Adding locks to French doors can cost from $30 to $700, depending on the type of lock, material, and style. Adding lamination (which will make the glass stick to the lamination if it’s shattered) will increase the price by $100 to $500. While additional features can increase the security of the doors, it’s important for homeowners to remember that French doors are not immune from break-ins, although there are some important steps they can take to increase glass door security.
Accessories
Adding accessories to improve and enhance French doors can increase the overall cost of the project. Some homeowners add transoms above the doors to increase their height and allow even more light into the room. Some transoms have the option of opening to allow for increased airflow. Each transom can cost from $200 to $600. Installing blinds over French doors costs from $200 to $1,300. Blinds can create more privacy and block the interior of the home from harmful UV rays. Since French doors are made mostly of glass, this type of door is difficult to soundproof. There is the option of using soundproofing caulk around the panes of glass, which can cost about $30. Upgrading to hurricane-proof French doors can start at around $3,000. For those who live in storm-prone locations, fortifying exterior French doors involves reinforcing the frames and locks and using an added layer of sealant around the glass panes to prevent cracking.
Types of French Doors
The type of French doors directly affects the price of the doors and the installation cost. Some types are easier to install, while others require much more care and time. Homeowners should choose the type of French doors based on the surrounding clearance for the opening of the doors and the size of the door frame. Below are the different types of French doors and the average price ranges.
| Type of French Doors | Average Price Range |
| Center-hinged | $1,000 to $1,500 |
| Double in-swing | $400 to $4,000 |
| Double out-swing | $400 to $4,000 |
| Single in-swing | $300 to $1,000 |
| Single sliding | $800 to $2,000 |
| Telescopic sliding | $1,500 to $6,000 |
Center Hinged
The average cost of center-hinged French doors ranges from $1,000 to $1,500. This style of French door is typically used as an outside door and has one stationary fixed door while the other side opens and closes. The door that opens is hinged in the center of the two doors, instead of on the side like traditional French doors.
Double In-Swing
The cost of double French doors that swing inward ranges from $400 to $4,000. This type of French door does not have a frame in between the two doors, and they open into a room. They’re more commonly used as interior doors or as patio doors rather than exterior front doors, since exterior French doors typically swing out.
Double Out-Swing
Double out-swing French doors run from $400 to $4,000. Just like double in-swing doors, they’re made without a frame between the two doors, but they open outward. This type of door is typically used as an exterior door, since the two doors don’t take up valuable indoor space when they’re opened.
Single In-Swing
Single in-swing French doors open into a room. They cost between $300 and $1,000 because one single door is less expensive than traditional double French doors. It’s common for a single in-swing French door to have a single, thin, fixed glass panel on one side of the door. These are typically used as interior doors.
Single Sliding
Single sliding French doors cost between $800 and $2,000. Commonly used as exterior doors, they work well for areas that lack the clearance to open traditional French doors. When closed, they retain the classic look of traditional French doors, but only one side, or section, slides to open.
Telescopic Sliding
Telescoping sliding French doors are a set of doors that slide into each other when they open. Ideal for use in an outdoor/indoor living space, this type of door creates more usable space between the areas. Telescoping French doors cost from $1,500 to $6,000 and usually have a modern look with a steel frame and large glass panels without mullions.
Benefits of Installing French Doors
French doors are a stylish option that allows increased light into the home. Since they’re available in different styles, types, and materials, French doors can match the decor of any home. Below are some of the benefits of installing French doors.
Additional Security
Since French doors traditionally have multiple panes of glass in a large frame, French doors provide more security than other types of large, single-pane glass doors.
Improved Aesthetics
French doors are more aesthetically pleasing than traditional front doors. They allow for more light to enter the space and can increase the overall value of a home.
Customization
With a wide range of construction materials, types, glass designs, and styles, French doors are highly customizable. Whether the doors are made from aluminum, wood, vinyl, or steel, the look and design of the doors can match any home’s aesthetic.
Versatility
Available as both exterior and interior doors, French doors can connect two rooms or be used to open onto a patio, garden, balcony, deck, or porch.
Functionality
French doors can be used not only to open up a space but also to create some privacy by closing off two rooms; this can reduce noise and also make heating an interior space more efficient. When opened, French doors can create the feel of additional space in a room, and they can also make it easier to move large items in and out of an area.
Increased Natural Light
Homeowners can bring the outdoors in when French doors are opened to the outside. Since French doors are traditionally made mostly of glass panes, they allow increased natural light and airflow into a home.
Increased Home Value
French doors can create a focal point within a room and generate interest. Installing French doors is a valuable upgrade that can appeal to potential home buyers when it’s time to sell.
French Door Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
An experienced DIYer can install French doors on their own, and a prehung French door kit will make the process easier in a home that has standard-size door frames. Homeowners will want to keep in mind that professionals can take between 2 and 5 hours to install French doors. If a homeowner doesn’t feel comfortable installing French doors on their own, it’s recommended that they call a professional. The installation process can be challenging for those who don’t have the experience with door installation. Exterior French doors require a tight seal to ensure proper insulation, and custom-size doors take precision for a proper installation. In addition, some manufacturers of the best patio doors require professional installation for the warranty to be valid.
How to Save Money on the Cost to Install French Doors
Installing French doors can improve the look of a room, increase the amount of natural light, and boost the value of a home. Depending on the style, type, and material of the doors, however, they can cost a considerable amount of money. Below are some money-saving tips to follow when budgeting for the cost to install French doors.
- Get multiple estimates. Get at least three estimates from reputable door installation professionals in your area to find a price that works with your budget.
- Consider the material. Some French door materials are more expensive than others. If you love the look of wooden French doors but the price is out of your budget, vinyl doors can mimic the look and texture of wood at a lower cost.
- Opt for a single door. Installing a single in-swing French door adds to the overall aesthetic of the room while keeping costs down.
- Focus on the inside. Interior French doors are more budget-friendly than exterior doors, and the cost to add French doors to a dining room is less expensive than the cost to replace your front door.
- Think about the style. If French doors with ornately decorated glass are out of your price range, opt for a simpler style that matches both your decor and your budget.
Questions to Ask About French Door Installation
Asking the right questions about French door installation can help a homeowner get the right information and save money. Below are some questions to ask about French doors and the installation process.
- How long has your company been in business?
- Do you have insurance?
- Do you hire subcontractors, or will you be installing the doors?
- What type of training and experience do you or your staff have?
- Will you provide references?
- Will you provide detailed pricing?
- Do you have a portfolio of past French door installations you’ve completed?
- What type of French doors do you recommend for my space?
- How long will it take to install the French doors?
- What is your policy if there is damage to the doors or the surrounding area during the installation?
- What do I need to do to prepare for the installation?
- Do you offer a warranty on your work?
- How can I leave a review?
FAQs
French door installation is a big project that can seem daunting when a homeowner is first considering it. Below are some frequently asked questions about French doors and the installation process.
Q. Do French doors add value to your home?
Installing French doors can add value to a home. Due to their relatively low cost compared to the cost of other types of home improvements, French doors have a high resale value that is attractive to potential home buyers when the homeowner decides to put their home on the market.
Q. How long should French doors last?
Exterior French doors can last between 15 and 30 years, depending on the quality and type of materials. Interior French doors can last much longer—between 30 and 50 years.
Q. Are French doors more expensive than sliding doors?
Typically, traditional sliding glass doors are less expensive than French doors, but if a homeowner buys higher-quality sliding glass doors, the price will become comparable.
Q. Should French doors open in or out?
Whether the doors swing in or out comes down to personal preference. Homeowners will want to choose the option that works the best in their space and consider if the area has ample clearance when they are opened and closed.
Q. Do French doors have handles on both sides?
Double French doors usually have handles on both sides, but center-hinged, single, and sliding French doors typically do not.
Q. Are French doors hard to install?
French doors are more difficult to install and cost more than the cost to install a single door. Not only does the seal need to be exact, but lining up each door to create an equal space around them takes skill and experience.