Why Upgrade Doors?
Many Kentucky homes, especially those built in the 80s and 90s, have hollow-core doors that dent easily, transmit sound, and look cheap.
Hollow vs. Solid Doors
Hollow-Core Doors
- Weight: 10-15 lbs
- Cost: $30-80 per door
- Sound blocking: Minimal (STC 15-20)
- Durability: Dents easily
- Best for: Closets, low-traffic areas
Solid-Core Doors
- Weight: 40-60 lbs
- Cost: $100-250 per door
- Sound blocking: Good (STC 25-30)
- Durability: Excellent
- Best for: Bedrooms, bathrooms, offices
Solid Wood Doors
- Weight: 50-70+ lbs
- Cost: $200-800+ per door
- Sound blocking: Very good (STC 30-35)
- Durability: Excellent with care
- Best for: High-end homes, visible locations
Installation Options
Professional lighting installation
Clear scope, accurate dimensions, and job-site photos help any project move faster. For current ASB work, that usually means welding, fabrication, gates, railings, stairs, and repair across Central Kentucky.
Option 1: Slab Only
Replace just the door panel, keeping existing frame.
- Pros: Lower cost
- Cons: Must match existing size exactly
- Cost: $75-150 labor per door
Option 2: Pre-Hung Door
Replace door and frame as a unit.
- Pros: Better fit, easier to align
- Cons: More work, affects trim
- Cost: $150-300 labor per door
Option 3: Slab + New Hardware
Replace door and upgrade hinges, knobs, etc.
- Pros: Fresh look throughout
- Cons: Higher total cost
- Cost: Add $50-150 per door for hardware
What Affects Cost
Door Size
- Standard (80" x 32-36"): Base price
- Non-standard: May require special order
Hardware Needs
- Existing hardware compatible? Saves money
- New hinges, knobs, strikes add up
Painting
- Pre-primed doors need 2 coats
- Stain-grade requires more skill
- Consider having doors painted before hanging
Quantity Discount
- Single door: Higher per-door cost
- Whole house: Better pricing on materials and labor
Timeline
For a typical home with 8-12 interior doors:
- Day 1: Remove old doors, prep openings
- Day 2: Install new doors, adjust fit
- Day 3: Hardware, touch-up, cleanup
Add 1-2 days if painting is included.
ROI and Appeal
Door upgrades:
- Appeal to buyers (especially solid-core)
- Improve privacy and quiet
- Last the life of the home
- ROI: 70-80% of cost at resale
Upgrade your doors - we'll assess your current doors and provide options.
Ready to Get Started?
If you have a live metalwork scope, we're here to help with welding, fabrication, gates, railings, stairs, and repair work across Nicholasville, Lexington, and Central Kentucky.
Request a Welding QuotePlan your next step
Use this article as planning reference, then contact ASB for active welding, fabrication, gate, railing, stair, and repair work across Nicholasville, Lexington, and Central Kentucky.
