STLCT

What Door Installers Do

• Entry door replacement and installation
• Interior door replacement and hanging
• Garage door installation and repair
• Storm door and screen door installation
• Patio and French door installation
• Door hardware and lock installation
• Weather stripping and threshold adjustment
• Pet door installation

When to Hire a Door Installer

Hire a door professional for exterior doors and garage doors, as proper sealing and alignment are critical. Interior door hanging can be DIY but is trickier than it appears, especially in older homes where frames are often out of square. Pre-hung doors are easier for DIY; slab doors in existing frames require more skill.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

• Will you replace just the door or the entire frame?
• How do you ensure proper weathersealing at threshold and jambs?
• Do you handle lock and hardware installation?
• For garage doors, do you include opener installation?
• What material do you recommend for my exterior door?
• How do you address out-of-square frames in older homes?
• What warranty covers the door vs. your installation?

Red Flags to Watch For

• Doesn't assess existing frame condition
• No discussion of weatherstripping and sealing
• For garage doors, doesn't test safety reversing features
• Uses excessive caulk instead of proper flashing
• Doesn't shim properly for a level installation
• Rushes installation without checking operation
• Ignores signs of rot in existing frame

Cost Considerations in St. Louis

Entry door installation in St. Louis costs $1,000-$4,000+ including door and labor. Steel doors are most economical; fiberglass and wood cost more. Interior door replacement runs $200-$500 per door installed. Garage door replacement costs $800-$2,500 for a single door, $1,500-$4,000+ for a double, plus $300-$500 for opener installation. Storm doors typically cost $300-$700 installed.