ArcaMax

A substantial upgrade to a molded, solid-core passage door that replaces a thin, hollow-core interior door is a notable improvement. The solid door looks and operates better and reduces the transmission of sound. And a molded door can create a quieter, more peaceful place by eliminating the noisy hum of a dishwasher, the drumbeat from a stereo system or any other unwanted sounds in a nearby room.

A carpenter will charge $640, including labor and material, to remove a standard sized interior door and replace it with a new sound-deadening molded door. Assuming you have carpentry skills and tools, you can buy the door, hinges and lockset for $200, replace it yourself and save 69%.

The job involves removing the existing door and hinges, installing new hinges on the door and frame, and hanging the door. Note hinge placement and install new ones carefully. Make sure they face the same direction as the old ones and check that the new door has the cutout for the doorknob in the same place. If the old knob is in good condition, you can remove it and reinstall it on the new door and save the cost of a new doorknob.

You’ll need basic carpentry experience and a work surface to lay the door flat to install the hinges and finish the surface (if necessary). Allow for about 3/16 inches of clearance on the door width. To trim the height to fit, be sure the door clears the floor surface and any carpeting. Seal any cut surfaces with an effective coating suggested by the manufacturer.

Pro Cost: $640 — DIY Cost: $200 — Pro time: 1.0 DIY Time: 4.0 — DIY Savings: $440 — Percent Saved: 69%

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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

©2025 Gene and Katie Hamilton. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.