The trim around a door frame is also known as casing. Its primary function is to increase a home’s energy efficiency and enhance curb appeal. Once an exterior door is in place, casing is typically installed on the frame, ideally before the baseboard and chair rail. The specific procedure for installing door casing can vary according to the type being used.
Standard Services | Quantity | Low | High | ||
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What you can expect | |||||
Range per linear foot: | $4.84 | $7.55 | |||
Range for this type of project: | $606 | $944 | |||
Estimate: $775 | |||||
Door Casing Cost | 132 linear feet | $95 | $144 | ||
Cost of residential-grade, 1/2"x2-1/4" ready-to-paint MDF door casing. Rate is inclusive of local delivery, as well as standard excess for perfect installation and occasional repairs. | |||||
Door Casing Labor, Basic | 7 hours | $426 | $691 | ||
Labor cost, under typical conditions, for complete installation. Jamb edge will be planed or sanded until flush with wall, and door casing will be measured, trimmed, and finished. Edge gap will be caulked, and nail holes patched and smoothed. Fee is inclusive of all aspects of the project, such as thorough planning, acquisition of equipment and material, preparation and protection of project site, and meticulous cleanup. | |||||
Door Casing Job Supplies | 132 linear feet | $23 | $26 | ||
Requisite supplies for the job, including fasteners, connectors, and materials for surface preparation and finishing. | |||||
Door Casing Equipment Allowance | 1 job | $61 | $83 | ||
Daily rental of specialty equipment for maximum quality and efficiency. These include pneumatic-finish nailer, 12" compound miter saw, biscuit joiner, and detail sander. Consumable equipment elements not included. | |||||
Door Casing Debris Disposal | 125 linear feet | $28 | $32 | ||
Responsible disposal of all project debris, including the cost to load and haul old materials, installation waste, and any other refuse. | |||||
Optional Services | |||||
Option: Remove Trim Millwork | 2 hours | $31 | $197 | ||
Trim edge will be scored where bonded to adjacent surfaces. Trim will be gently pried away, preserving the integrity of adjacent surfaces, finishes, and hardwork. Trim millwork will be removed from premises. |
cost to install door casing | |
National Avg. Materials Cost per linear foot | $0.94 |
National Avg. Cost (labor and materials) for 125 linear foot | $804.40 |
National Cost Range (labor and materials) for 125 linear foot | $628.55 - $980.25 |
A major step in preparing a frame for new casing is the removal of the existing trim. This procedure generally consists of carefully prying the casing from the door jamb and wall with a pry bar. Score any caulk or paint lines on the exposed surfaces with a utility knife to avoid damage during removal. It may also be necessary to remove some of the baseboard if the new casing is wider than the old one.
The price of the trim itself is one factor that can affect the project cost. Colonial-style primed wood is one of the more expensive options, while narrower trim with a lower profile will generally cost less. Composite and vinyl trim are the least expensive options. The total length of trim needed also affects the cost since door casing is sold by the linear foot. If the trim requires finishing or if the frame or surrounding wall needs repair, expect additional fees.
The process of measuring and cutting the trim is the most technically challenging part of installing a new door casing. For example, matching the head door jamb to the trim on each side of the door is often a difficult task that benefits from prior experience. A professional carpenter will also be better able to operate a power miter saw, which is the preferred method for cutting door casing.