Cost to Install French Doors
Installing French doors means removing the existing door, fitting an assembled jamb into the rough opening, hanging both doors, and sealing the unit to the weather barrier. It is a hard project because the jamb must be perfectly plumb and level for the doors to swing and latch correctly, while the sill pan and sealing work must manage drainage.
Common reasons homeowners do this job
- An existing door and its hardware are worn or damaged.
- A homeowner wants to upgrade an entry with French doors.
- The current door unit is being replaced with a French door kit.
- An existing rough opening can accommodate a new French door unit.
- The sill and drainage setup need attention before a new door is installed.
DIY or call a pro?
This can be a DIY project, but consider professional help if measuring the rough opening, leveling the jamb, or sealing the unit feels beyond your comfort level. If framing must be modified, make sure the rough opening is non-load-bearing; consult a structural engineer when it carries load. Heavy door units should be handled carefully to avoid injury, and the manufacturer’s sealing instructions need to be followed to prevent water damage.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I install French doors myself, or is hiring help a better choice?
- DIY is workable when the rough opening fits the unit, the wall framing has adequate backing support, and you can set the jamb plumb and level. Consider help if you are unsure about handling the heavy unit, adjusting shims for proper swing and latch operation, or modifying any framing.
- What makes French door installation cost more?
- The price can rise with the number of door units, labor time, and materials. Haul-away of the old door material can also add to the job, and a small installation may include a minimum or trip charge.
- What should I check before buying a French door kit?
- Measure the rough opening to confirm that it accommodates the new unit. Also check whether the sill is a step-down or continuous slab, since that affects drainage requirements, and verify that the wall framing provides adequate backing support.
- Why do French doors need a sill pan and careful shimming?
- A sill pan manages water drainage, while shims bring the jamb to plumb and level. If the jamb is set incorrectly, the doors may bind or miss the latch; shims can be adjusted during testing before the unit is sealed to the weather barrier.
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