Interior Door Installation: Upgrading from Hollow to Solid

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

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.