When updating your home’s interior doors, one of the most common questions homeowners face is whether to replace just the door slab or install a new prehung frame. While both options improve appearance and function, they differ significantly in cost, complexity, and results. Here’s what Toronto homeowners should know before choosing between door replacement and full frame installation.
Interior door replacement involves removing the existing door slab and installing a new one into the current frame. It’s a quick and budget-friendly way to refresh your interior without major construction or wall repairs.
Average Labor Cost (Toronto 2025): 💰 $100 – $150 per door (plus hardware)
Benefits
- Fast installation — typically 1–2 hours per door
- Affordable compared to full frame replacement
- Minimal mess or wall repair required
- Ideal if the existing jamb is square and undamaged
Considerations
- Doesn’t fix warped or damaged frames
- May leave gaps if the old jamb isn’t level
- Limited to standard-sized openings
Pro Tip: Door-only replacements work best in newer homes or where the frame and hinges are still structurally sound.
What Is Full Frame (Prehung) Door Installation?
A full frame installation replaces the entire door unit — slab, jamb, and casing. This option ensures proper alignment, improved soundproofing, and a longer-lasting finish. It’s the preferred method in older homes or where previous frames have shifted or warped.
Average Labor Cost (Toronto 2025): 💰 $125 – $175 per door (plus door and materials)
Benefits
- Perfect alignment and reveal consistency
- Better insulation and soundproofing
- Option to customize swing direction and hardware placement
- Works for uneven or older walls
Considerations
- Slightly higher cost and longer installation time
- Requires casing or drywall touch-ups in some cases
- Full door unit must match wall thickness
Pro Tip: For renovations or remodels, a prehung installation is the better investment — it provides a true reset and flawless operation for years to come.
Comparing Door Replacement vs. Full Frame Installation
| Feature | Door Replacement (Existing Frame) | Full Frame Installation (Prehung) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Labor Cost (Toronto 2025) | $100 – $150 per door | $125 – $175 per door |
| Time Required | 1–2 hours | 2–3 hours |
| Ideal For | Homes with undamaged frames | Older homes or full renovations |
| Soundproofing | Moderate | Excellent |
| Customization | Limited to existing frame | Fully customizable (swing, hardware, trim) |
| Aesthetic Finish | Good | Premium, seamless appearance |
| Durability | Depends on existing frame condition | Long-lasting, complete reset |
In most Toronto homes, prehung installations make sense during remodels, while door-only replacements are ideal for quick updates or cosmetic improvements.
When to Choose Each Option
Choose Door Replacement If:
- Your existing frames are in great shape.
- You’re updating style or color only.
- You need a quick refresh before selling your home.
Choose Full Frame Installation If:
- Frames are cracked, warped, or uneven.
- You’re upgrading to solid-core or heavier doors.
- You’re completing a renovation or adding new trim and casing.
Professional Installation Makes the Difference
No matter which option you choose, precision installation ensures your doors swing smoothly, close tightly, and look professionally finished. Even minor misalignments can lead to gaps, sticking, or uneven reveals over time.
With 25+ years of experience and over 1,500 installations completed across Toronto and the GTA, JK Luxury Home Remodeling delivers flawless door replacements and prehung installations with lasting craftsmanship.
📞 Contact us today or
Book a Free Estimate
to find out which option is best for your home.
Serving Toronto, Mississauga, Vaughan, Markham, and Richmond Hill.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between a door replacement and a full frame installation depends on the condition of your existing frame, your budget, and your long-term plans. For the best results, always get a professional in-home assessment — an experienced installer can identify frame issues and recommend the most cost-effective and lasting solution for your home.
The cost to replace an interior door depends on what kind of door installation we are doing, typically the labor price for a pre hung door installation starts at 130-150$ depending on the opening. The price for other door installation services depends on the style of door, height and complexity of the installation. For the most accurate estimate, its always best to request a personalized quote based on your home layout and door style you choose.
Yes, it’s possible to install a new door without replacing the existing frame or casing—but it depends on their condition and alignment. If your current frame is square, level, and free from damage, a slab door installation is a cost-effective option that preserves your existing trim. However, if the frame is warped, cracked, or misaligned, replacing it is recommended to ensure a proper seal and smooth functionality. At JK Luxury Home Remodeling, we assess every project to help you choose the most practical and durable option for your home.
Choosing the right door size depends on the dimensions of your existing rough opening. A standard interior door typically measures 80 inches in height and 24-36 inches in width, but precise measurements are key for a perfect fit. To determine the correct size, the rough opening should usually be about 2 inches wider and 2 1/2 inches taller. than the door slab itself—allowing room for the frame and shimming during installation. If you have an opening that is 82 inches heigh and 32 inches wide the door required for that opening would be a 30×80″ Doors. At JK Luxury Home Remodeling, we take exact on-site measurements to ensure your new door fits seamlessly, whether it’s a standard pre-hung unit or a fully customized size for older Toronto homes.
The time required to install an interior door depends on the type of door, its size, and the existing frame condition. In most Toronto homes, a standard pre hung interior door can be installed in as little as 30-40 Minutes, making it one of the fastest upgrades for your home. However, custom sized doors or specialty doors—especially in older houses with uneven walls or unique openings—can take a few hours to complete. At JK luxury Home Remodeling, our experienced installers ensure each door fits perfectly, operates smoothly, and aligns with your trim and flooring for a flawless finish every time.
JK Luxury Home Remodeling provides both residential and commercial installation services.
Our specialties include crown moulding, wainscoting, coffered ceilings / waffle ceilings, concrete cladding, renovation services, custom trim work and other finish carpentry services
We have proudly been serving Toronto and the GTA for over 20+ Years, specializing in ceiling designs, waffle ceilings, wainscoting, and custom carpentry projects.
Yes! We offer free estimates for all trim, moulding, and interior door installation projects. Our team will assess your needs, discuss options, and provide a detailed, no-obligation quote so you can plan your project with confidence.
Yes, JK Luxury Home Remodelling is fully insured. We prioritize protecting both your home and our team on every project. Our insurance coverage gives you peace of mind knowing your property is in safe hands. Beyond protection, we take pride in delivering quality finish carpentry, reliable service, and 100% customer satisfaction. Learn more about our story on our About Us page.
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