How much does a new front door cost installed? Whether you’re upgrading for style, security, or energy efficiency, understanding the costs involved is essential. In the UK, the price of a new front door can range from £340 to over £4,000, depending on factors like material, design, and installation.
This guide will break down the costs for different door types, explain factors that affect pricing, and highlight hidden expenses you should consider. You’ll also discover tips for budgeting and learn about options like DIY versus professional installation.
At Celestial Windows, we specialise in providing secure, durable, and stylish front doors tailored to your needs. By the end of this article, you’ll have the information you need to choose the perfect front door for your home—and your budget.
Let’s get started!
Cost of a New Front Door Fitted
Choosing a new front door isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about balancing cost, quality, and functionality. The price of a new front door in the UK can range from £840 to £4,325, depending on the material, design, and additional features. This range covers both the door itself and professional installation.
At Celestial Windows, we understand that every home and budget is unique. That’s why we provide tailored quotes to match your specific needs, ensuring you get the best value without compromising on style or security.
Average Price Ranges for Front Doors
Here’s a detailed breakdown of costs for popular front door materials, including door-only prices and full installation costs:
| Material | Door-Only Cost | Cost Including Fitting |
| uPVC | £340 – £600 | £840 – £1,200 |
| Composite | £750 – £2,000 | £1,250 – £3,500 |
| Wooden | £800 – £2,500 | £1,400 – £3,750 |
| Aluminium | £900 – £2,700 | £1,500 – £4,000 |
| Steel | £1,000 – £3,000 | £1,600 – £4,325 |
What Influences These Costs?
- Material Choice:
- uPVC: Budget-friendly, low maintenance, and energy-efficient.
- Composite: Durable, secure, and available in a wide range of styles.
- Wooden: Timeless and elegant but requires more upkeep.
- Aluminium: Sleek and modern with excellent weather resistance.
- Steel: Offers unparalleled strength and security.
- Door Size and Style:
Larger or custom-sized doors often require more materials and labour, increasing the cost. - Additional Features:
Consider features like energy-efficient glazing, advanced locks, and smart security systems, which can enhance functionality but add to the price. - Labour Costs for Installation:
Professional installation ensures the door fits perfectly and operates smoothly. It also avoids potential issues caused by DIY fitting.
Breakdown of Door Types
Selecting the right front door involves balancing cost, style, and functionality. Each door type offers unique benefits and price points. Below, we explore how much front doors cost in the UK, the advantages, and drawbacks of popular materials.
uPVC Door Cost
Price Range
- Door-only cost: £340 – £600
- Fitted cost: £840 – £1,200
How much do uPVC doors cost?
They are one of the most affordable front doors in the UK, ideal for homeowners on a budget.
- Affordability: uPVC doors are cost-effective, starting at just £340 for the door alone.
- Low Maintenance: Resistant to rot, fading, and weathering, they require minimal upkeep.
- Energy Efficiency: These doors are designed with insulation in mind, helping to reduce energy bills and keep your home warm.
Potential Drawbacks
While uPVC doors are budget-friendly, they have a few limitations:
- Limited Design Options: Compared to composite or wooden front doors, uPVC designs can appear less sophisticated.
- Less Premium Appearance: Their simple finish may not suit those looking for a high-end front door.
Aluminium Door Cost
Price Range
- Door-only cost: £900 – £2,700
- Fitted cost: £1,500 – £4,000
How much do aluminium front doors cost?
Starting at £900, they are a premium choice for homeowners seeking durability and modern aesthetics.
- Modern Aesthetic: Aluminium front doors have a sleek, minimalist look that works well with contemporary homes.
- Durability: Aluminium is highly resistant to rust, corrosion, and harsh weather conditions, making it perfect for the UK climate.
- Weather Resistance: These doors withstand heavy rain, strong winds, and other weather extremes without losing their strength.
Potential Drawbacks
- Higher Cost: While aluminium doors are durable, their price can exceed £4,000 installed.
- Moderate Insulation: Thermal breaks may be needed to enhance their insulation properties.
Wooden Door Cost
Price Range
- Door-only cost: £800 – £2,500
- Fitted cost: £1,400 – £3,750
How much does a wooden front door cost?
Prices start at £800, depending on the type of wood. Wooden doors are a timeless choice that adds elegance to any home.
- Classic Style: Wooden front doors bring natural warmth and beauty to traditional or modern properties.
- Natural Insulation: Wood is a natural insulator, helping to maintain warmth and reduce heating bills.
- Customisation: Bespoke designs, finishes, and colours are available for those looking for something unique.
Potential Drawbacks
- High Maintenance: Wooden front doors need regular varnishing or painting to prevent rot, swelling, or cracking.
- Weather Sensitivity: Without proper sealing, they can warp or crack due to damp weather.
Composite Front Door Cost
Price Range
- Door-only cost: £750 – £2,000
- Fitted cost: £1,250 – £3,500
How much does a composite front door cost installed?
Starting at £1,250, composite doors provide exceptional value for their durability and security.
- Superior Security: Composite doors meet advanced safety standards, offering high levels of protection.
- Energy Efficiency: These doors provide excellent insulation, keeping your home warm and energy-efficient.
- Weatherproof Durability: They resist weathering, fading, and wear, lasting for years without losing their appearance.
- Customisable Designs: Composite front doors come in various finishes and colours to suit any property.
Potential Drawbacks
- Higher Upfront Cost: Composite front doors are more expensive than uPVC front doors, but their durability justifies the price.
Factors Influencing Front Door Costs
Understanding the factors that influence front door pricing can help you make an informed decision and stay within your budget. Let’s explore how size, materials, design, and features affect the overall cost.
Size and Dimensions
The size of your front door has a direct impact on its cost. Larger or non-standard doors require more material and labour, which can significantly increase the price. For instance, a standard-sized uPVC door might start at £340, but opting for an oversized composite or aluminium door can push costs well beyond £2,000.
Additionally, non-standard dimensions often mean custom manufacturing, which adds to both production and installation expenses. This is particularly true for unique shapes or bespoke frames that demand extra precision during fitting.
Material Type
The material you choose for your front door affects more than just the price—it also determines its durability, aesthetic, and maintenance requirements.
For homeowners on a budget, uPVC doors are an excellent choice. They’re affordable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient, though they may not offer the premium look of other materials.
If you prefer a sleek, contemporary style, aluminium doors are worth considering. Priced from £900 upwards, they combine durability with a modern aesthetic, but they may require additional insulation measures for energy efficiency.
Wooden doors bring timeless elegance and natural insulation but can cost between £800 and £2,500, depending on the type of wood. However, regular maintenance is essential to prevent weather-related damage.
For the ultimate in security and durability, steel doors are an excellent option. Although they offer an industrial look, they’re nearly indestructible, making them ideal for added peace of mind.
Finally, composite doors provide the best of all worlds, combining multiple materials for superior insulation, security, and design flexibility. These start at £750 and offer exceptional value for homeowners looking for a high-performance door.
At Celestial Windows, we provide a range of materials to suit every budget and style. Whether you’re after affordability or luxury, we’ll help you choose the perfect front door.
Design and Aesthetics
Your front door is more than just an entryway—it’s a statement piece for your home. Simple designs tend to be more cost-effective, but intricate details, bold colours, and bespoke finishes can elevate your door’s appearance and increase its price.
For example, choosing a custom colour, decorative glazing, or unique panel shapes can add hundreds of pounds to the overall cost. However, these design upgrades can also boost your home’s kerb appeal and reflect your personal style.
Additional Features
Modern front doors can include a range of advanced features that enhance security, convenience, and style. For example:
- Smart Doorbells: These allow you to see who’s at your door via your smartphone, adding convenience and safety.
- High-Security Locks: Advanced locking mechanisms can add £50-£150 to the cost but provide valuable peace of mind.
- Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Insulated cores and weatherproof seals improve performance and save on energy bills.
While these features add to the upfront cost, they often pay off in the long run through increased security, convenience, and energy efficiency.
Type of Glazing
Glazing options can transform the look and functionality of your front door. Double glazing, for example, provides excellent insulation and noise reduction, while frosted or decorative glass enhances privacy and style.
Premium glazing options, such as triple glazing or patterned glass, can increase the cost but are worth the investment for their aesthetic and functional benefits.
Hidden Costs and Considerations
When budgeting for a new front door, it’s important to factor in costs beyond the door itself. These hidden costs can include removing the old door, repairing the surrounding frame, and labour for professional installation. Addressing these considerations upfront ensures a smooth and hassle-free installation process.
Removal of Old Doors
The first step in replacing your front door is removing the old one. While this may seem simple, it often involves additional labour and disposal fees, especially if your old door is made from materials requiring specialised recycling. Skipping professional removal can leave you with extra work or unforeseen costs.
Repairs to the Frame or Surrounding Structures
Before fitting your new front door, it’s essential to assess the condition of the existing frame and surrounding structures. Over time, frames can become warped, cracked, or damaged by moisture, especially in older homes. If these issues aren’t addressed, they can compromise the fit, functionality, and lifespan of your new door.
Repairs or replacements to the frame may increase your upfront costs, but they’re crucial for a secure and weatherproof installation. At Celestial Windows, our experts will inspect the frame during the initial consultation and recommend any necessary work to ensure your new door is installed correctly and performs optimally.
Labour Costs for Professional Installation
The quality of your door installation can make or break its performance. Professional installation ensures that your door is aligned, sealed, and secure, preventing issues like draughts, water leaks, and poor insulation. However, labour costs for installation vary depending on the complexity of the job and the type of door you choose.
While DIY installation might seem like a cost-saving option, it often leads to long-term problems that outweigh any initial savings. Professional installation guarantees a perfect fit and saves you the time and effort of tackling the project on your own.
Budgeting Tips for a New Front Door
When investing in a new front door, careful budgeting ensures you strike the right balance between cost and quality. By planning effectively, you can avoid unexpected expenses and make a purchase that delivers value for years to come. Below, we outline tips for setting a realistic budget, choosing the right materials, and finding cost-effective designs.
Assessing Your Budget
Before selecting a front door, consider your budget and what you want your investment to achieve.
- Define Your Priorities: Determine the features that matter most, such as security, insulation, or aesthetics. A secure composite door, for instance, may cost more upfront but provide long-term peace of mind.
- Consider Long-Term Value: Don’t just focus on the initial cost. A high-quality door that lasts 10–20 years can save you money over time by reducing maintenance and energy costs.
- Research Price Ranges: Get familiar with average costs for door types and installation. For example, uPVC doors start at around £840 fitted, while composite doors can range from £1,250 to £3,500.
- Include Hidden Costs: Factor in removal of the old door, repairs to the frame, and labour for installation to avoid surprises.
Choosing the Right Material
The material of your front door plays a pivotal role in determining both upfront costs and long-term expenses. From affordability and energy efficiency to durability and style, each material offers unique benefits and drawbacks. Selecting the right one for your home can significantly impact its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Let’s delve into the most popular options.
uPVC Front Doors
We often get asked which is better, uPVC doors or Composite Doors. uPVC doors are the go-to choice for budget-conscious homeowners. With prices starting as low as £340 for the door alone and around £840 fitted, they provide a cost-effective solution without sacrificing basic functionality. Known for their low maintenance requirements, uPVC doors resist rot, corrosion, and fading, making them ideal for the UK’s variable weather conditions.
In addition to affordability, uPVC doors offer decent energy efficiency, helping to keep your home warm and lower your heating bills. However, they are not without limitations. uPVC doors tend to lack the premium finish and design versatility of more expensive materials. While they are available in a range of colours and styles, they may not achieve the sophisticated look that some homeowners desire.
Composite Front Doors
Composite doors are a top choice for homeowners looking for a balance between style, security, and durability. Starting at £750 for the door alone and typically ranging from £1,250 to £3,500 installed, composite doors represent a premium option. Their price is justified by their multi-layered construction, which combines materials like wood, uPVC, and insulating foam for exceptional strength and thermal efficiency. Check out this guide on how to insulate a front door.
One of the standout benefits of composite doors is their resistance to warping, cracking, and fading, even in harsh weather. They also offer superior security features, often meeting advanced safety standards to keep your home protected. We rate composite doors as one of the best front doors for security. Available in a variety of colours, textures, and finishes, composite doors can mimic the appearance of traditional wood while offering modern performance.
Wooden Front Doors
Wooden front doors bring a timeless elegance to any home, making them a popular choice for traditional and modern properties alike. Prices start at £800 for a basic wooden door, with bespoke designs costing up to £2,500 or more. Installation typically adds £600 to £1,200, depending on the door’s complexity.
The natural insulation properties of wood make these doors excellent for retaining heat, which can help reduce energy costs in colder months. Wooden doors are also highly customisable, with a wide range of finishes, stains, and panel designs to suit your home’s character.
However, they require regular maintenance to prevent warping, rotting, or cracking. Periodic varnishing, sealing, or painting is essential to protect the door from moisture and weather damage. Despite the maintenance needs, wooden doors remain a luxurious and long-lasting option for those willing to invest the time and effort to care for them.
Aluminium Front Doors
Aluminium doors are the epitome of modern design, offering a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that suits contemporary homes. Priced from £900 for the door alone and upwards of £1,500 installed, they are a premium choice for those prioritising durability and style.
Renowned for their strength, aluminium doors are resistant to rust, corrosion, and extreme weather conditions. This makes them a long-lasting option that requires minimal maintenance. Aluminium is also highly versatile, allowing for slimline frames and larger glazing panels, which maximise natural light and create a striking visual effect.
While aluminium doors excel in durability and aesthetics, they may require additional insulation to optimise energy efficiency. Adding a thermal break or insulated core can increase upfront costs but ensures the door performs well in terms of heat retention.
Cost-Effective Design Recommendations
If you’re working with a tighter budget, there are still ways to achieve a stylish and functional front door:
- Stick to Simple Designs: Ornate details and custom finishes increase costs. Opt for clean, straightforward designs to stay within budget.
- Consider Alternative Materials: If a wooden door is out of reach, consider wood-effect composite doors for a similar look at a lower cost.
- Prioritise Key Features: Focus your budget on essential features, such as energy-efficient glazing or high-security locks, rather than aesthetic extras.
While it’s important to manage costs, investing in quality materials and craftsmanship pays off in the long term. A durable, well-installed door will enhance your home’s security, curb appeal, and energy efficiency.
DIY vs Professional Front Door Installation
When replacing your front door, one major decision is whether to handle the installation yourself or hire a professional. Both approaches have their merits, but it’s crucial to weigh the costs, risks, and benefits carefully.
DIY Installation
DIY front door installation might seem like a cost-saving option, but it’s not without challenges.
Costs:
DIY installation avoids labour costs, saving you £150–£600 depending on the door type. However, you’ll need tools and materials, which can add up.
Risks:
Improper installation can lead to issues like draughts, poor alignment, and even security vulnerabilities. Fixing mistakes later can be costly.
Benefits:
For experienced DIYers, fitting a standard door can be a rewarding project, especially for simple uPVC models.
Professional Installation
Professional installation ensures your door is fitted perfectly, maximising its performance and longevity.
Costs:
Hiring professionals adds to the initial cost, but the investment ensures the job is done right. Labour typically costs between £150 and £600, depending on the door type and complexity.
Risks:
There’s minimal risk when using skilled installers, as they handle potential challenges like uneven frames or complex designs.
Benefits:
Professionals bring expertise, tools, and guarantees, saving you time and avoiding potential errors. They also handle tasks like old door removal and frame adjustments.
Commonly Asked Questions
With decades of experience of installing front doors, we’ve dealt with all kinds of situations, and answered all kinds of questions. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions we get about front door installation.
How Much Should You Spend on a New Front Door?
The amount you should spend on a new front door depends on your priorities, such as security, insulation, and design. In the UK, prices typically range from £840 to £4,325 when including installation. Affordable options, like uPVC doors, start at around £340 for the door alone, while premium materials like composite or aluminium can exceed £2,000.
Balancing your budget with long-term value is key. Investing in a durable, energy-efficient door may have higher upfront costs but can save you money on maintenance and energy bills over time. Features like advanced security locks and bespoke designs can add to the price but offer significant benefits.
Always factor in installation costs, which can range from £150 to £600, and consider hidden expenses such as frame repairs or old door removal. For tailored advice, contact us for a quote that fits your budget and needs.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Front Door in the UK?
Replacing a front door in the UK costs anywhere from £840 to £4,325, depending on the type of door and the complexity of the installation. For example:
- uPVC Doors: Cost between £340 and £600 for the door, with fitted prices starting at around £840.
- Composite Doors: These premium doors range from £750 to £2,000, with installation costs pushing the total to between £1,250 and £3,500.
- Wooden Doors: Prices for wooden doors start at £800 and can reach up to £3,750 with fitting, depending on the type of wood and customisation.
- Aluminium Doors: Expect to pay between £1,500 and £4,000, including installation.
Labour costs typically vary based on the door material and whether additional work, such as frame repairs or structural adjustments, is required.
Can I Replace My Front Door Without Removing the Frame?
Yes, in some cases, you can replace your front door without removing the frame, but it depends on the frame’s condition and compatibility with the new door. If the existing frame is structurally sound, properly aligned, and free from rot or damage, it’s possible to fit a new door within the existing frame. This can reduce costs and minimise installation time.
However, if the frame is damaged, warped, or incompatible with the new door’s size or material, it’s best to replace it. Using a damaged or poorly fitted frame can lead to draughts, misalignment, and reduced security.
Summary
Investing in a new front door is a significant decision that combines cost, style, and functionality. Whether you’re choosing an affordable uPVC door, a durable composite option, or the timeless elegance of wood, understanding the factors that influence pricing ensures you make a choice that suits your needs and budget. From size and material to custom designs and advanced features, the cost of a front door, including installation, typically ranges from £840 to £4,325 in the UK.
Transform your home with a secure, stylish, and energy-efficient front door from Celestial Windows. Our team of experts offers professional guidance, bespoke designs, and seamless installation, ensuring your new door is perfect in every way.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote! Let us help you find the ideal front door to match your home and budget. With our commitment to quality and a 10-year guarantee, you can trust Celestial Windows for a door that delivers lasting value and peace of mind.
