French Door Cost Calculator

French doors cost $1,100–$6,800 installed depending on location and material. Interior French doors cost $800–$2,300 (door + frame + labor). Exterior French doors cost $1,400–$4,800. Wood frame doors run $1,000–$3,000, fiberglass $800–$2,500, and vinyl $600–$1,800 (door only). Installation labor adds $300–$800 per door set. Add $200–$600 for sidelights, $100–$300 for blinds between glass, and $200–$500 for security glass.

Interior French doors ($500–$1,500 base) are lighter, use standard glass, and do not require weatherstripping or insulation. They divide rooms, close off offices, or replace closet doors. Exterior French doors ($800–$3,000 base) must be weather-resistant with insulated glass (double or triple pane), weatherstripping, and threshold seals. Exterior doors need tempered safety glass per building code. Exterior installation is more complex — requires proper flashing and waterproofing ($100–$300 extra).

Wood frames ($1,000–$3,000) offer the most classic look, are paintable/stainable, but require maintenance every 2–3 years. Best for interior applications or covered exterior entries. Fiberglass frames ($800–$2,500) are the best all-around choice for exterior doors — durable, low-maintenance, energy efficient, and can mimic wood grain. Vinyl frames ($600–$1,800) are most affordable, maintenance-free, and energy efficient, but limited to white or few color options.

Standard French door pairs come in widths of 48 inches (two 24" doors), 60 inches (two 30" doors), or 72 inches (two 36" doors). The most common size is 60 or 72 inches wide by 80 inches tall. Rough opening should be 2 inches wider and 2.5 inches taller than the door unit. Custom sizes are available at 20–40% premium. For wheelchair accessibility, the clear opening should be at least 32 inches (one door panel must be 36 inches or wider).

French doors use multi-point locking systems for security — a handle lock engages bolts at the top, middle, and bottom simultaneously. Standard multi-point locks cost $100–$300. Flush bolts ($30–$60) secure the inactive door at top and bottom. Smart lock options ($150–$400) with keypad or smartphone control are available. For exterior French doors, choose ANSI Grade 1 or 2 locks for security. Keyed handles on both sides are standard; add a deadbolt ($50–$150) for extra security.

French doors can be energy efficient with proper features. Look for: double-pane insulated glass (standard, R-2), triple-pane glass (+$200–$400, R-3 to R-4), Low-E glass coating (reflects heat, saves 10–25% on energy near the door), argon gas fill between panes (improves insulation 15%), and proper weatherstripping. ENERGY STAR-rated French doors meet strict efficiency standards. Fiberglass and vinyl frames insulate better than wood or aluminum. Annual energy savings: $50–$150 depending on climate and door quality.

DIY French door installation saves $300–$800 in labor but requires intermediate carpentry skills. Interior doors are easier (no weatherproofing needed). You need: level, drill, shims, screws, foam insulation, and trim pieces. Pre-hung French doors (door + frame) are designed for DIY — takes 4–6 hours. Exterior doors are harder — requires proper flashing, waterproofing, and threshold installation. Hire a pro for exterior doors, load-bearing wall modifications, or if the rough opening needs resizing.

French doors cost $1,100–$6,800 installed and swing open fully for maximum clearance. They offer classic aesthetics and can serve as interior room dividers. Sliding doors cost $800–$3,500 installed and require less floor space (no swing arc). Sliding doors have larger glass area for more natural light. French doors provide wider pass-through when fully open. Sliding doors are more energy efficient (less air leakage). Choose French doors for traditional/transitional style; sliding doors for modern/contemporary.