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How to Budget for a New Front Door

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How to Budget for a New Front Door

A new front door adds curb appeal and security, and winter is the best time to save on installation.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $1,400 before anything else
Across the 0% window $77.78/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $1,400 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A tight front door keeps drafty air out and your home secure, while a smart lock means no more fumbling for keys in the cold. Most installs take just a single day, and scheduling the work during the off-season winter months usually means lower installer rates and faster booking.

The average job runs about $1400 for the door, hardware, and labor. Getting multiple quotes keeps contractors honest, and spreading that cost out over time makes the hit to your bank account much easier to handle.

A 0% intro period gives you time, but it isn't free money. If you still have a balance when the 18 months end, regular interest kicks in on whatever is left, so stick to your monthly plan.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick your door and lock set

    Choose a well-insulated exterior door and a smart lock that matches your home setup. Double-check your frame measurements before ordering to avoid annoying return fees.

  2. 02

    Get three contractor quotes

    Reach out to local installers during the winter slowdown when work is quiet. Ask each pro to bid on both the door install and the smart lock setup so you get a complete picture.

  3. 03

    Use an 18-month 0% intro offer

    Put the project on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, which gives you 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. That buys you time to pay off the project without extra fees.

  4. 04

    Set up a monthly auto-pay

    Divide the $1400 total by 18 months, which comes out to $77.78 per month. Set up an automatic payment for that exact amount so you never miss a deadline.

  5. 05

    Test the seal and lock setup

    Before the installer leaves, check for drafty gaps around the frame. Run the smart lock through its app pairing and manual keypads several times to ensure the latch does not catch.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Why is winter a good time to replace a front door?

Exterior contractors have less work in the winter, so they are often willing to offer better labor rates. You also get on their schedule much faster than during the spring peak.

Can I install a smart lock on an old door?

You can, but if your old door sags or sticks in the frame, the deadbolt might jam. Replacing the door and lock together ensures the deadbolt glides smoothly into the strike plate.

How long does a front door installation take?

A professional crew usually takes four to six hours to pull the old frame, set the new door, and configure a smart lock. You won't be left with an open entry overnight.

What happens if I don't pay off the card in 18 months?

The standard variable interest rate will start applying to whatever balance remains after the 18-month window closes. Pay off the balance before that date to avoid paying interest.