How Much Does it Cost to Install a Security Door?

Security Door Installation Cost

Primarily, security doors serve to block intruders from getting into the home through the entry. Current ones come in such a vast selection of colors and styles that homeowners don't have to compromise looks for function.

When homeowners want to buy a security model, they may have options in the purchase and installation. Some installers buy the products for their customers, and others will install the items that a person buys independently. Installation by a skilled contractor can ensure that the unit will hang, open and close correctly.

Most manufacturer warranties depend on proper installation. Homeowners should evaluate their skill sets before deciding to do it themselves.

Average Security Door Costs

Security Screen Door Prices

Innovations in screens have led to the development of security styles, which offer security, ventilation and convenience. The price of a screened entrance with these features ranges from $50 for the most basic models to $600 for larger sizes or stronger mesh. The cost to install a screen door often comes in lower than the cost for storm doors, at $50 to $100 per unit.

Sliding Security

Some homeowners want to have added assurance for their patio. A sliding glass door may cost about $300. But, sliding security could require as much as $1,000 or more. Prices go up for larger pieces of glass, or the option to have the system hung prior to installation.

Security Storm Door Prices

The security of the unit affects how much you will pay. Although standard storm models often provide weather protection and extra barriers to entry, they are not by definition built for security. The cost of storm doors ranges from $100 to $400. By comparison, security storm styles cost $300 to $3,000, depending on the material.

Security Door Prices by Type

Aside from a screen, security units can appear as a solid piece, bars or gates. The material used to build them creates a wide range of prices for individual products. Homeowners pick certain items based on the style, function and durability of the material. Prices start around $400 for fiberglass and range as high as $3,000 for steel-encased hardwood. Visit the following guides to learn more about the cost of a security gate and security bar prices.

Fiberglass

A model made out of fiberglass offers the look and feel of solid hardwood without the same pricing. A fiberglass unit contains a fiberglass shell with an interior of foam and wood. You can expect to pay an average $400 for the item.

Steel Security Doors

Steel serves as the standard choice in security entrances. A steel door costs about $300 to $700 on average for the item, in addition to installation. People often prefer steel for its accessibility, affordability and durability.

Hardwood

Many people love the look of natural hardwood. A unit made from solid hardwood costs $900 on average, or more for exotic wood species. The finished product typically stands at least two inches thick, to provide adequate protection against weather and forced entry.

Wrought Iron

Security styles made of wrought iron offer a classic look that also presents superior strength. Homeowners who choose this material will pay $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the product. The installation of wrought iron trends higher than other materials, around $550. The range may resemble the cost to install iron security bars elsewhere in the home.

Steel-Encased Hardwood

Hardwood does not always stand up to the test of time, so the discriminating buyer may opt for steel-encased hardwood instead. For about $3,000, this style will hold up under difficult conditions and maintain the traditional wood look.

Security Gates for Doors

The price range for security gates could range widely, from $900 on the low end to $5,000 at the top. You might opt to install a security gate for added protection around a yard or driveway.

Cost to Install Security Doors

Installation for a security entrance relates to how much work you require. You should plan to budget $300 to $1,000 for installation work, although most pay on the lower end of the range. The average expense for security installation stands at $275 to $425 per unit.

Reframing and Hanging New Exterior Security Door

Reframing serves as one aspect of exterior door installation that could increase the total price. Consumers can expect an extra $250 to $400 to install a new frame:

Repair or Replacement Costs and Considerations

People who want to avoid replacing the unit may need to pay about $220 on average for common door repairs. If you choose to replace glass, it will cost $100 to $500, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Some homeowners opt to replace instead of repair. In this case, you may face an additional charge of $45 to haul away the old equipment, including dumping fees.

Deciding to repair or replace your existing model relates to the damage and the cost of the repairs compared to replacement. These home fixtures encounter wear over time, which could cause them to have the following problems:

• Sticking resulting from humidity changes; calls for sanding down

• Sagging from a damaged frame; requires rehanging

• Air leaks: needs weather-stripping

Door Prices by Top Brands

You can choose from a variety of brands and styles. Most manufacturers recommend hiring a licensed contractor or other skilled person to install it. Prices can vary significantly depending on your selection. Contact a representative from the company to get a quote.

Crimsafe Security Doors Cost

Crimsafe specializes in screens with added security features. Crimsafe products include:

• French doors

• Sliding security

• Bi-fold

• Stacking

• Limited 10-year warranty

Tru Frame Door Prices

To buy a Tru Frame product, you can expect to pay $500 to $3,500. They make certain popular models, such as Viewguard. The company offers:

• Storm doors

• French security styles

• Sliding screens

• Limited five-year warranty

Master

Master Security Doors features a variety of products designed to meet American and European standards for quality. Options range from hurricane and tornado to ballistic protection:

• Single

• French

• In-swing or out-swing

• Sliding glass

• Full or partial view

C.R. Laurence

C.R. Laurence maintains a large selection of security models, some under the popular Guarda name. Customers can choose from several features, such as:

• Multi-locking screen doors

• Sliding security screens

• French opening

• 30-day limited warranty

Larson

Larson presents security doors designed to handle the elements with the style customers want. Their catalogue ranges from $200 to $900 and includes:

• Security storm, screen and patio

• Steel material

• Full or partial view

• Decorative glass

• Limited lifetime warranty on certain components

Xpanda

Xpanda offers security gates in variable sizes, for multiple purposes. The company indicates that installation technicians are available for hire. The products feature a one to two-year warranty, depending on the item.

Unique Home Designs

Unique Home Designs manufactures affordable units for the cost-conscious consumer. Costs for their products range from $300 to $1,000. The company sells models in steel or aluminum, screens and a limited lifetime warranty.

Titan

Titan aims to function as a one-stop shop for security in all styles. Their products may cost from $600 to $1700 per item, and include:

• Storm security doors

• Security screens

• Full and partial view

• Double

• Patio

• Limited lifetime warranty

Shield

Shield Security Doors specializes in custom-built products that will meet individual requirements. Their services emphasize an ability to create almost any style, such as French opening, partial view or replica models.

DIY Installation vs. Hiring a Pro?

A homeowner with experience in carpentry could install a security model themselves, although manufacturers suggest against it. Most of the expenses concern materials for the project. A door may seem simple to install. But, hanging demands precision, or the unit will not close properly. Many people decide that getting it right justifies the expense of hiring a professional.

FAQs

What's the difference between security storm and security screen doors?

Storm doors protect against the elements, such as wind, rain or ice. Screen doors offer ventilation options with added security, but little barrier from the weather. In a cost comparison, screens lean cheaper on average, around $300. Storm-blocking products cost about $1,000. Many opt to install both, for the ultimate in weather and intrusion protection.

What's the cheapest way to buy security doors?

People often get the lowest prices from big box stores like Home Depot and Lowe's, with some units as low as $100. However, you may not pay a lot more to buy straight from a manufacturer, if you choose a simple style. Although many brands offer installation manuals, most claim that hiring an experienced professional is best.

“The Internet is your friend. Get the manufacturer name and model number from the big–box store and then look online,” says Bob Tschudi, a Raleigh, NC-based GC. “Just remember that a few dollars saved online is great until you have to return an item. I’ve discovered that the big box stores will bend over backwards to right a wrong—online vendors might not be so willing.”

What types of locks come on security doors?

You can choose from a wide selection of locks available for security doors, costing $200 to $600. The average price sits at around $400. You might opt for simple mechanical locks, motorized versions, biometric scanners, access pads and smart locks. For added security, the cost to install a home security system to work with smart locks may contribute an extra $700.