Bilco Door Installation Cost (A Complete Guide For You)

Are you looking to add a Bilco door to your basement? Bilco doors are like no other. They are weather-resistant, which means they can withstand rainfall, debris, and other weather elements. They are also durable, long-lasting, and easy to use.

These doors provide the security that your basement and house needs. Most importantly, they fulfill the building code requirements for an emergency exit. A complete Bilco door installation costs anywhere from $1,000 to $5,500, depending on a variety of factors.

Here we’ll check out what those factors are to give you an accurate idea of the price you’ll pay. Read on to find out more!

What Is a Bilco Door and What Are Its Uses

A Bilco door is simply a basement door, with Bilco being the brand name and manufacturer. For almost a century, their products have dominated the market for their unmatched design and quality.

In some places, it’s a requirement to have basements with a quick and convenient exit in case of emergency. That’s where Bilco doors come in. They open outward and provide a fast escape route from the basement when needed.

As the company puts it, Bilco basement doors allow you to add building code-compliant storage or living space to your home. The wide opening of a Bilco door provides a quick storage area for your patio furniture, pool supplies, and other large items you use outdoors.

The best part is that these doors are available for sloped and flat basement areaways. Also, they come in different materials and finish to complement any home.

The Different Types of Bilco Doors Available

Bilco doors are available in three different types:

1. Classic Series

They allow you to enjoy the convenience of direct basement access. As mentioned, you can add a code-compliant storage or living space to your home with these doors and increase the functionality of your home.

What’s more, the classic series basement doors come with a factory powder coat finish that will match the exterior of your home.

2. Classic Series Sloped Wall

They are also referred to as Type BR basement doors. Like the original classic series, these, too, offer numerous similar benefits and functionalities. They are the perfect choice if a sloped sidewall is constructed into the foundation.

The BR-type Bilco doors are available in various options, including stone, brick, or poured concrete sidewall.

3. Ultra Series

They boast a polyethylene construction that’s rust and rot-proof. You will never need to paint this door. It features a classic simulated wood texture and attractive driftwood color that will match the exterior of your home.

Its interchangeable side panel inserts will enable you to easily add ventilation or light to your basement area. The ultra series Bilco doors are weathertight and user-friendly, ensuring safe and code-compliant basement access.

How to Choose the Right Type of Bilco Door for Your Needs

Bilco doors are weather-resistant, secure, code-compliant, and always stand the test of time. You only need to consider the following factors while choosing one for your needs:

1. Space available – Your Bilco door must fit the space available perfectly. If in doubt, it’s always best to go for something a little bigger, as this will make taking things in and out of your basement much easier.
2. Style – There are only three types of Bilco doors to choose from based on your preference or taste. Ensure you select a style that suits your basement. For example, the Type BR is suitable on a sloped sidewall built into the foundation.
3. Aesthetics – Choose a door that compliments your home or enhances your curb appeal. Luckily, Bilco doors come in excellent designs that will blend well with the rest of your exterior, so you get all of its benefits without it looking like an eyesore.

Bilco Door Installation Cost

A Bilco door installation usually costs between $1,000 and $5,000, depending on several factors. One of them is the amount of work that is involved. For example, you might need to cut through an existing foundation and add the door and stairs. That would add a significant extra cost beyond just installing a new door.

As we have stated, the cost of a Bilco door on its own ranges from $500 to $800, depending on the size, type, and where you buy it. Labor costs vary significantly in the market. On average, you can expect to pay about $2,500 to $4,500.

If you decide to go the DIY route, you could save money on labor, meaning you would only spend on the door and accessories. Bilco door accessories generally cost from $50 to $200. The overall cost of doing it can also increase if repairs are needed on the stairs and the doorframe.

The good thing is that a Bilco door will always come with a 5-year warranty. That allows you to justify the cost of buying and installing. In addition, accessories and the door finish have a guarantee of varying lengths.

So the exact cost mainly comes down to what additional work is required and who is going to fit it. For example, if you always have the space cut out and stairs for a basement door and want to install it yourself, it will barely cost you $1,000.

If, however, you do need a lot of groundwork done and are going to hire professionals to do the job, you may be looking at $5,000 or more. If you are using professional installers, it’s always a good idea to get a quote first.

Tips for Installing a Bilco Door Yourself

If you’re experienced and are confident about DIY Bilco door installation, here are helpful tips for you:

• Remember To Measure Your Door – Determine which size works for your home. Accurate measurements will help to avoid costly blunders. As the saying goes, ‘measure twice, cut once,’ meaning that double-checking your measurements can save expensive mistakes.
• Choose A Suitable Style – Bilco basement doors come in different styles, including classic steel, woodgrain, and high-end fiberglass. It all comes down to your taste and preference.
• Prepare the doorway – Remove any molding around the opening. Clean the area thoroughly.
• Remember the Flashing – The flashing is the metal strip you must install around the perimeter of the doorway. It prevents water from sipping through into your house.
• Drainage Tubes and Door Panels are a Must – A drainage tube is a plastic tube that drains water from your door. Next, you will install the door panel, the central part of the door you see when it’s closed.
• Install Other Essential Accessories – These include the threshold and the metal strip along the bottom to keep water away. You also need to install the latch for opening and closing the door. The latch can be attached either inside or outside the door frame. Finally, install the door handle for more effortless opening and closing.

Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Bilco Door in Good Condition

Bilco doors are undoubtedly durable, but you should still maintain them. Taking a few simple measures will go a long way in extending their life.

• Ensure Proper Installation – An improperly installed Bilco door can compromise its functionality and reduce its longevity. You will be better off hiring a professional than a misinformed DIY installation.
• Inspect The Door Regularly – Inspect your basement door regularly to allow timely repairs and prevent costly damages.
• Open The Door Often – That will allow for ventilation and reduce moisture. It will also enable you to clean the area of spiders and bugs.
• Clean The Door Regularly – Remove dirt and debris that accumulate on the door frame. That will prevent things from getting stuck and make it difficult to open the door.
• Regular Lubrication – Lubricate the joints and latches periodically to make it easier to open the door whenever needed.

What is the Cost of Replacing a Bilco Door?

A Bilco door can last a long time with proper maintenance however, wear and tear happen, as can damage from storms. The cost of replacing a Bilco door can vary from $800 to $1,100, depending on whether you’ll need to purchase the accessories. The price can get higher if you hire a professional, but you should be able to install it yourself with everything else in place.

What are Bilco Door Alternatives?

Bilco door alternatives to choose from include:

1. Clamshell Door – They have a single-door flap, which keeps the basement from water problems. Also, the material making the door is pure fiberglass, meaning rusting is never an issue. Clamshell doors are strong and can withstand harsh weather. Expect to pay about $1,500 for a high-quality clamshell door.
2. Hidden Door – The hidden door is perfect if you want to conceal access to your basement. It’s commonly located on the surface of a porch. The basement door is weathertight but also costly.
3. Deck Hatch – It’s an excellent idea if you consider creating a deck on top of your exterior basement staircase. A deck hatch will only consume a small space and lock like a Bilco door. The best part is that it’s a cheap alternative, as you can find one for less than $150.
4. Flat Hatch – Flat Hatch is also water and rust-proof. The door is not hidden, but unlike a bulkhead door, it’s not easily noticeable. Installation costs vary depending on labor, the door material, and the preparations you might need to do before installing. Its price starts from about $2,500.

Conclusion

Bilco door installation is costly, especially if done by a professional. The exact cost will vary depending on the labor and the work required during the process. However, Bilco doors are high-quality and worth the investment.

DIY installation can save a lot of money on labor, but the experience is necessary because improper installation can cause serious problems, including water ingress into your home. Whatever path you choose, we hope you enjoy your new Bilco door!