Updated September 8, 2022
Reviewed by Robert Tschudi, Expert Home Building and Remodeling Contributor. Written by HomeAdvisor.
Homeowners pay $600 on the low end, $1,400 on average, and $4,600 at the highest. A steel model could cost $300 to $700 for the cost of security doors, locks, and installation. Security screen doors usually cost less, around $50 to $600. Professional installation averages $275 to $425. Locks usually come separately and range from $200 to $600.
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.
In this article
- Average Security Door Installation Costs
- Security Door Costs by Type
- Cost to Install Security Doors
- Door Prices by Top Brands
- Security Door Installation Cost Factors
- DIY Installation vs. Hiring a Pro
Average Security Door Installation Costs
| Average | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| $1,400 | $4,600 | $600 |
Security Door Costs by Type
Security door prices start around $400 for fiberglass and reach as high as $3,000 for steel-encased hardwood. 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 material’s style, function, and durability.
Security Screen Door
The price of security screen doors typically ranges from $50 to $600. Prices can vary depending on the material and size of the door, with larger sizes and stronger mesh costing more. Innovations in screens have led to the development of security styles, which offer security, ventilation, and convenience. 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 Door
A sliding security door costs about $1,000. While this is more expensive than sliding glass doors, some homeowners want to have added assurance for their patio. Prices go up for larger pieces of glass, or if you opt to have the system hung prior to installation.
Security Storm Door
Security storm styles cost $300 to $3,000, depending on the material. By comparison, the cost of storm doors ranges from $100 to $400. 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.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass doors cost around $400, making them one of the more affordable types of security door. 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.
Steel Security Doors
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, and steel is a standard choice for most entrances.
Hardwood
A security door 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. Many people love the look of natural hardwood, making this an attractive option for a security door.
Wrought Iron
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. Security styles made of wrought iron offer a classic look with superior strength. The range may resemble the cost to install iron security bars elsewhere in the home.
Steel-Encased Hardwood
For about $3,000, steel-encased hardwood security doors will hold up under difficult conditions and maintain the traditional wood look. Since hardwood does not always stand up to the test of time, the discerning buyer may opt for steel-encased hardwood instead.
Security Gates for Doors
The cost of 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.
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Cost to Install Security Doors
Installation for a security entrance relates to how much work you require. The cost to install a door with security features ranges from $300 to $1,000, 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. This includes materials, like shims and caulk, the new frame, and the cost of installation.
Repair or Replacement Costs and Considerations
People who want to avoid replacing the unit 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.
Door Prices by Top Brands
You can choose from a variety of brands and styles. Most manufacturers recommend hiring a licensed contractor or another skilled professional to install it. Prices can vary significantly depending on your selection. Contact a representative from the company to get a quote.
Crimsafe Security Doors
Crimsafe specializes in screens with added security features. Crimsafe products include:
French doors
Sliding security
Bi-fold
Stacking
Limited 10-year warranty
Tru Frame
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 catalog 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 $1,700 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.
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Security Door Installation Cost Factors
Some factors that affect the cost of installing a security door include the size of the door, any repairs you need to install the door, and additional security features. With some features, like alarms, you may need to pay the cost of an alarm monitoring service.
Size
The larger your door, the more you can expect to pay for a security door. Larger sizes can cost up to $600.
Locks
What type of lock you choose also affects the cost of your security door. Locks average around $400, but can cost $700 or more depending on the specific type. Options include mechanical locks, access pads, smart locks, and more. The cost to hire a locksmith is about $150 per project.
Repairs
You’ll need to pay more to cover the cost of any necessary repairs before you can install a security door. For instance, touching up the fixtures and framing may cost $100 to $150.
Improvements and Reinforcement
While installing a new door, you may also want to include upgraded features, such as reinforced door frames and jambs. A new frame, for example, costs about $50 to $75.
Additional Security Enhancements
You may also want to consider additional security enhancements such as window bars, cameras, or alarm systems. The cost to install a home security system is about $700 on average, while the cost to install a security camera is about $125 to $450 per camera.
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. Otherwise, the unit will not close properly.
Many people decide that getting it right justifies the expense of hiring a professional. If you plan to install a security door yourself, you may also want to consider additional safety features for your home. For example, the cost to install a security safe is around $500.
Have More Questions About Your Security Door?
Frequently Asked Questions
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 home improvement stores, with some units as low as $100. However, if you choose a simple style, you may not pay much more to buy straight from a manufacturer. Although many brands offer installation manuals, most claim that hiring an experienced professional is best.
Another piece of advice, too: “The Internet is your friend. Get the manufacturer name and model number from the big–box store and then look online,” says Bob Tschudi, Expert Review Board members and 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.”
How long does it take to install a security door?
It typically takes around an hour to install a security door, although the time it takes can vary depending on your specific situation. It may take longer for larger doors, or if you need additional repairs, replacements, or additions. Be sure to ask your installation professional if you’re on a strict schedule.
Does a security door add value to your house?
Like many types of home improvements, a security door can add value to your house. Additional security features, like home alarms and security systems, can further boost the value of your property. However, your location likely plays a significant role in how much value your security features may add to your home.
