Pre-Hung vs Slab Door – Differences Explained

Homeowners looking for a new door for their home build or renovation will need to decide between a pre-hung door and a slab door. The primary differences are what’s included, installation time, cost, and the expertise required to install the door.

Knowing what sets these door types apart will make your project smoother. You don’t want to find out mid-install that you’re missing the frame—or that you could’ve saved hours by buying the other type from the start.

What Is a Pre-Hung Door?

A pre-hung door includes a door mounted onto a new frame. If you order it with hardware preparation, the knob, latch, and hinge holes will come already drilled. A pre-hung door is best if your door frame is damaged, uneven, or warped.

Pre-hung doors are bulky and can be tricky to maneuver in tight hallways or staircases. If you decide to move it yourself, it’s best to have someone assist you in lifting and positioning it.

What Is a Slab Door?

A slab door is just the door panel. It does not include hinges, a frame, or drilled holes. You are working with a blank canvas. Slab doors are the best option if your existing door frame is aligned and in good condition.

Slab doors are lighter and easier to transport than pre-hung doors. The tradeoff is that you’ll have to take your time with the installation, measure carefully, cut hinge pockets (mortises), and ensure the door lines up properly in the frame. One wrong measurement or cut could throw off the whole installation.

Key Differences Between Pre-Hung and Slab Doors

Pre-hung doors include a frame and hinges whereas slab doors do not. A pre-hung door works best when the existing door frame is damaged or when starting a new build or remodel. Slab doors offer more control over the final appearance and are ideal when you’re working within a frame that’s still in good condition.

The following list compares the main features of pre-hung doors and slab doors.

• What’s included: Pre-hung doors include the door, frame, and hinges (often pre-drilled for hardware) whereas slab doors just include the door panel.
• Best used when: Pre-hung doors are best when the frame is damaged, for a new construction, or for a full remodel. Slab doors are best when the existing door frame is in good condition.
• Installation complexity: Pre-hung doors are easier to align (as the frame is already attached) but bulky to install. Slab door installation requires precision and tools.
• Customization: Pre-hung doors come with standard specifications. Slab doors can be customized with your choice of trim, paint, and hardware.
• Transport & handling: Pre-hung doors are heavier and bulkier to maneuver. Slab doors are lighter and easier to carry through tight spaces.
• Appearance & flexibility: Pre-hung doors provide a uniform, standardized fit. Slab doors can be styled to match or preserve your existing trim or style.
• Cost (product only): Pre-hung doors typically cost $150-$300 or more, depending on the material. Slab doors typically cost $50-$200 or more, depending on the material.
• Skill level required: Pre-hung doors are suitable for beginners to intermediate. Slab doors are best for intermediate to advanced (pro recommended), especially if building an entirely new door frame.

Pre-hung doors are typically easier to install in rough openings because the door and the frame are already aligned. Slab doors require a steady hand and precision tools since you’ll be cutting hinge pockets, drilling knob holes, and fitting the door yourself.

If your goal is efficiency and consistency across multiple rooms, go pre-hung. If you’re restoring a home or preserving original woodwork, go with a slab door.

Cost Differences

Pre-hung doors usually start at around $150 and go up from there. Solid-core options can push $300 or more.

Slab doors typically range from $50 to $200 and up, depending on the material. Hollow core doors are cheaper; solid core or solid wood options run higher.

Installation Considerations

Installing a pre-hung door means tearing out the old frame and fitting the new one into the wall studs. If your walls are aligned, that will make the job more straightforward. However, if the floors are uneven, you might need to make adjustments to achieve a level fit.

Installing slab doors requires more preparation. You will need to chisel or route the hinge pockets, line up the strike plate, and potentially trim the door to size.

One wrong measurement could cause the door to drag and not latch. That said, a slab door will look seamless and custom with patience and precision.

Average cost of installation (door not included):

Pre-hung door: $321-$487 Slab door: $349-$530

Time required for installation:

Pre-hung door: 2.5 hours Slab door: 2-4+ hours

Please note: Pre-hung doors are more expensive to buy but cost less to install. Slab doors come at a lower price point (in terms of materials) but you will spend more on labor to have it installed.

DIY Factor

Installing a pre-hung door is usually easier for DIYers—especially if the door opening is standard and aligned. Make sure you’ve got a level floor and the rough opening is the right size. This will make installing a pre-hung door much more straightforward. The first installation will take a while, but the rest will go much faster.

Installing a slab door takes more skill, precision, and time than a pre-hung door. It’s feasible if you have the patience and some handy skills. Assess the frame and ensure that it is aligned and in good condition. The key is to take precise measurements and check your layout before chiseling the hinge pockets.

When to Use Each Type

Here’s when each door type makes the most sense.

Use a Pre-Hung Door If:

• You’re doing a full remodel or gut job. A pre-hung door is ideal for a new build or renovation because it includes both the door and the frame.
• Your current frame is warped, damaged, or rotting. Instead of trying to salvage it, it’s easier and more reliable to replace the whole unit at once.
• You want the fastest, most predictable install. Because pre-hung doors are pre-aligned, installation is quicker and easier.
• You’re upgrading several doors at once for consistency.
• The space is a new addition or part of a new construction.
• For exterior doors, you’re aiming for better energy efficiency. Pre-hung doors include tight seals and weatherstripping.

Use a Slab Door If:

• You’re preserving original trim or woodwork. If your home has beautiful or historic casings, a slab door leaves them untouched.
• The existing frame is level and in good shape.
• You want full control over the finish, fit, or design.
• You're replacing a single door and want it to match others nearby. It’s much easier to maintain visual consistency by just changing out the door panel.
• You’re working within a tighter budget. Slab doors are more affordable and don’t require additional materials like a new frame or casing.
• You’re handy and willing to do some of the installation work yourself.
• You’re going for a sleek, minimalistic look. Slab doors are great for modern interiors where you want the door to blend seamlessly into the wall.

Pre-hung doors are for structure; slab doors are for style. One gives you a reset; the other works with what you’ve already got.

If you’re doing the work yourself, the learning curve matters. Pre-hung will save you a lot of headaches, especially if you’re not used to precision carpentry.

The Right Door for Your Project

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. Pre-hung doors are ideal for major upgrades, new builds, or replacing broken frames. Slab doors are perfect for subtle changes, especially in homes with solid existing framing.

Both have their place. The right choice depends on your goals, skill level, and the shape of your door openings. Plan carefully when installing a new door and choose the type that makes the most sense for your situation.