Replacing door hinges can be expensive if you don’t plan for it. Think of labor and material costs. If you ignore replacing hinges, you’ll have damaged doors, misaligned doors, and security issues that will cost you money. Understanding what makes the cost go up will help you budget and not spend too much.
The cost to replace a door hinge will be between $10 and $100 per hinge including labor and materials. It depends on the type of hinge, the labor rate and the condition of the door.
Keep reading to find out how these factors affect the cost of replacing door hinges.
The cost of replacing door hinges depends on:
The cost to replace door hinges is going to vary because of a few things. It depends on the type of hinge and the material of the door. It also depends on the labor rate. The type of door you have, whether it’s an interior door, exterior door or garage door, is going to play a big part in what it costs you to replace door hinges. The material and complexity of the door also play a role because it affects the time and effort to replace them.
Labor rates change depending on where you are. Who you get to do the work for you will also make a difference. For example, replacing hinges on a heavy exterior door will take more labor than replacing hinges on a simple interior door. All these things together determine the total cost of your project.
Types of Door Hinges and Their Costs
Basic Hinges
Basic door hinges, such as butt hinges, are the most commonly used. These typically cost between $2 to $20 per hinge. They are standard for interior doors and come in various finishes, which can slightly affect the price. Generally, the simpler the hinge, the lower the cost.
Specialty Hinges
Specialty hinges, such as piano hinges, concealed hinges, or heavy-duty hinges, are significantly more expensive, sometimes ranging from $20 to $100 per hinge. These are typically used for more complex or industrial doors, and their higher price reflects their specific design and durability.
Labor Costs for Replacing Door Hinges
Average Labor Costs
Labor charges for replacing door hinges usually range from $40 to $150 per hour, depending on your location, the complexity of the work, and whether the hinge is on an exterior or interior door. In many cases, labor can constitute the bulk of the cost, especially when multiple doors need attention.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
You can save on labor costs by opting for a DIY installation. However, this requires tools and some degree of expertise. Mistakes during installation, such as improper alignment, can result in damage to both the hinge and the door, leading to further repair expenses down the line.
Material Costs Beyond Hinges
The cost of materials beyond the hinges themselves can add to your overall expenses. Additional materials such as screws, reinforcement plates, or lubricants may be needed, especially if the old hardware is corroded or damaged. These materials typically cost between $5 and $30, depending on the brand and quality chosen.
If the door or frame has suffered damage due to prolonged use of faulty hinges, you might need to invest in adjustments or reinforcements, such as trimming the door or repairing the frame. This can increase the cost, particularly for older or misaligned doors.
Garage Door Hinge Replacement Costs
Replacing garage door hinges costs more than standard door hinges because garage doors are bigger and heavier. The price for garage door hinges is between $10 and $30. Hiring a professional to replace garage door hinges will cost between $50 and $100 per hour because it requires specialized tools and knowledge to work on these doors.
Garage doors have multiple hinges, and you might need to replace them all at once, which will cost you even more money. If there’s any damage to the tracks or springs, that will add to the cost of your project.
How Often Should Door Hinges Be Replaced?
On average, door hinges last between 10 to 15 years, depending on their use and the environment they are exposed to. Hinges in high-traffic areas, or those exposed to moisture and temperature fluctuations, may wear out more quickly. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating the hinges, can extend their lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements.
Ignoring the need for replacement can result in more expensive damage to the door or frame, so replacing them at the first signs of wear is essential to prevent higher future costs.
Can You Replace Door Hinges Yourself?
Yes, door hinges can be replaced as a DIY project if you have basic tools and a moderate level of handyman experience. For many, this can be a cost-saving option, as professional labor is the most expensive part of the process. A set of tools including a screwdriver, chisel, and drill is typically all that’s needed.
However, DIY hinge replacement comes with risks. If the hinges are not aligned properly or if the door isn’t rehung accurately, it can lead to further problems. These include issues with the door sticking, squeaking, or failing to close properly, which could necessitate professional repair, increasing the overall cost.
Additional Costs for Related Door Repairs
Sometimes, replacing door hinges isn’t enough to fix issues with the door. Additional repairs or replacements, such as replacing door knobs or locks, trimming the door for a better fit, or adjusting the door frame, can add to your expenses. For example, trimming a door to fit can cost an additional $50 to $150, depending on the extent of the work required.
Likewise, if you’re replacing hinges on an older door, you may also need to replace the door knob or lock, especially if they are corroded or worn. Replacing a door knob typically costs around $30 to $60, while higher-end locks or door handles can increase this cost further.
Conclusion
Replacing door hinges is a cheap way to keep your doors working and secure. A little planning will help you keep the costs down.
