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01 · Ask
External, internal or bifold?
Very different jobs, very different specs. Describe what you need and the AI tells you what to ask for.
Install a timber front door.
Hardwood, oak or accoya — bespoke timber doors with heritage detailing or modern lines.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Hire a door installer. PAS 24 or don't open it.
Read the brief on PAS 24, threshold heights and lock specs — then let Three local installers quote.
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02 · Read the brief
Walk in informed
PAS 24 security, Part M accessibility, multi-point locks, threshold heights, U-values. Know the standards.
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03 · Compare
Compare 3 door quotes
Three local installers quote on the same spec — door, frame, lock, threshold — so you compare like-for-like.
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Top tips
Hiring a doors, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
PAS 24 for external doors.
PAS 24:2022 is the security standard for external doors. Specify it on the quote — most insurers expect it.
Composite vs uPVC vs timber.
Composite: 25+ year life, premium look. uPVC: 15–20 years, cheap. Timber: needs painting every 5 years. Match the material to the door's job.
Get the threshold detail right.
Low-threshold (10mm) is Part M-compliant for accessibility. Standard (25mm) is harder for prams and wheelchairs. Specify which on the quote.
Multipoint lock spec matters.
3-point and 5-point multi-locks differ in security and price. For external doors, 3-point hooks + 2-point bolts is the standard for insurance compliance.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
uPVC front door (fitted)
£700–£1.5k
Composite front door (fitted)
£1.1k–£2.5k
Hardwood timber door
£1.5k–£4k
Bifold doors (per leaf)Aluminium
£800–£1.8k
French doors (pair, fitted)
£1.2k–£3.5k
Internal door + fitInc. ironmongery
£120–£400
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Doors briefing.
Infographic
Doors quick-view
Video guide
Doors explained
Timber front doors are the heritage choice — the only option that genuinely fits Victorian, Georgian, or Edwardian properties. Done well, they're stunning and last 40+ years. Done badly, they swell, stick, and rot. This guide covers what UK timber doors cost in 2026 and the maintenance reality.
Wood Choices
- European oak: traditional UK choice, ages silver if unfinished.
- Idigbo: African hardwood, oak-look at lower cost.
- Iroko: tropical hardwood, very durable.
- Sapele: African mahogany, reddish tone.
- Softwood pine: budget; needs painted finish; less durable.
- Reclaimed: salvaged Victorian/Edwardian doors — character.
Typical Costs
| Configuration | Low £ | High £ |
|---|---|---|
| Engineered softwood painted | 1,000 | 2,000 |
| Hardwood (oak, idigbo) | 1,800 | 3,500 |
| Premium hardwood | 2,500 | 5,000 |
| Heritage replica (Georgian, Victorian) | 3,000 | 6,500 |
| Reclaimed antique | 2,000 | 5,000+ |
UK Regulations
- FENSA/Certass certification.
- Part L thermal performance — modern timber doors meet via insulated core + draught seals.
- Listed buildings: matching heritage required.
Common Problems
- Swelling in damp/wet weather.
- Paint blistering — needs annual maintenance.
- Splitting from drying.
- Hardware loose — frequent re-tightening.
- Insect attack on softwoods.
FAQs
How much maintenance?
Annual: oil hinges, check seal. Every 2-5 years: repaint or re-stain.
Will it swell in rain?
Engineered modern doors much less than solid wood. Properly painted/oiled doors handle weather.
Hardwood vs softwood?
Hardwood for durability + heritage. Softwood for budget — needs painting + more maintenance.
Listed building requirements?
Often timber required. May specify wood species, painting/finishing. Conservation officer consultation essential.
How long do they last?
Properly maintained hardwood 40-80+ years. Softwood 20-30.
FSC certified?
Look for FSC chain-of-custody certified suppliers. Heritage suppliers usually have it.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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