Key takeaways
- Compare the exact product line, size, glass, rating and FL approval — not just the door style.
- The installation scope is where quotes differ most; make sure each one spells it out.
- Verify the contractor's license and insurance, and confirm who pulls the permit.
- Be wary of pressure tactics, "today-only" pricing and large cash deposits.
Two door quotes can look similar and still describe very different jobs. One might include a sill pan, flashing, permit, stucco repair and paint; another might include the door and not much else. Use this checklist to compare quotes on equal terms.
1. The product
Every quote should name:
- Manufacturer and product line (series) — not just “fiberglass door”
- Size and configuration — including sidelites, transoms and swing direction
- Glass — Low-E, laminated/impact, privacy texture, decorative pattern, grilles
- Frame and sill materials — composite frame? adjustable sill?
- Hardware — handleset, deadbolt, multipoint lock, finish
- Color and finish — factory finished or field painted?
2. The rating
- Design pressure the product is rated for
- Impact rating, if any
- Florida Product Approval (FL) number
If one quote is impact-rated and another is not, you are not comparing like for like.
3. The installation scope
This is where quotes differ most. Look for:
- Removal and disposal of the old door and frame
- Inspection and repair of rotted framing (and how extra repairs are priced)
- Sill pan and flashing
- Fastening to the product approval
- Insulation and sealant
- Exterior trim, stucco repair and paint
- Interior casing, caulk and touch-up
- Hardware installation and adjustment
- Clean-up
4. Permits and paperwork
- Who applies for the permit, and is the fee included?
- Will the job need a recorded Notice of Commencement?
- Who schedules and attends the inspection?
5. Schedule
- Expected lead time for the products
- Estimated installation duration
- How delays are communicated
6. Warranties
- Manufacturer warranty — what is covered, for how long, and does it transfer if you sell?
- Workmanship warranty — in writing, with a clear term
- Who you call if something goes wrong
7. Payment terms
- Deposit amount and when it is due
- When the balance is due (ideally at completion)
- Accepted payment methods and financing terms
Florida law requires contractors who collect more than 10 percent of the contract price up front on residential work to follow specific timelines for applying for permits and starting work, and contracts above a certain amount must include a notice about the Florida Homeowners’ Construction Recovery Fund. A professional contractor will be comfortable explaining both.
8. The company
- License: verify it on the Florida DBPR website
- Insurance: ask for certificates of liability and workers’ compensation
- Who installs: the company’s own trained crew, or subcontractors?
- Reviews: look for specifics about installation quality and follow-up
A simple comparison worksheet
Copy this into a notes app or spreadsheet and fill it in for each quote:
| Item | Quote A | Quote B | Quote C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer & product line | |||
| Size & configuration | |||
| Glass (Low-E / impact / privacy) | |||
| Design pressure & FL number | |||
| Hardware & finish | |||
| Sill pan & flashing included? | |||
| Stucco, trim & paint included? | |||
| Permit & inspection included? | |||
| Lead time | |||
| Product warranty | |||
| Workmanship warranty | |||
| Deposit & payment schedule | |||
| Total price |
Blank cells are your follow-up questions.
Questions to ask before you sign
- “What happens if you find rot when the old door comes out — and how is that priced?”
- “Who will actually install my door, and will a supervisor be on site?”
- “What does your workmanship warranty cover, and for how long?”
- “Will you meet the inspector, and what happens if the inspection fails?”
- “How will you protect my floors, landscaping and furniture?”
Red flags
- “Today-only” pricing or pressure to sign on the spot
- No FL number or vague product descriptions
- “You don’t need a permit” for an exterior door replacement
- Large cash deposits with vague start dates
- No written scope of the installation
- Unlicensed or uninsured installers
The bottom line
The lowest price only matters if it covers the same product and the same installation. Put the quotes side by side, line by line, and ask each contractor to fill in any gaps. We are always happy to walk you through ours.
Frequently asked questions
How many door quotes should I get?
Two or three detailed quotes are usually enough to understand pricing and scope. More important than the number is that each quote describes the same product and installation scope.
How much deposit is normal?
Deposits vary, and custom doors are often ordered with a deposit. Florida law places requirements on contractors who collect more than 10 percent of the contract price up front, including timelines for applying for permits and starting work — ask how your contractor handles it.
This guide is general information for Central Florida homeowners, not engineering or legal advice. Code requirements, product approvals and insurance credits depend on your specific property — we confirm them for your home during the estimate.