Prehung vs. Slab Doors: When Each Makes Sense on a Job Site
By WholesaleDoorHub Team · May 2026
Direct answer: Prehung doors include the door slab, jamb, hinges, and threshold — everything needed for installation except casing and hardware. They cost $95–$580 per unit at wholesale and are the standard specification for new construction.
Prehung vs. Slab Doors: When Each Makes Sense on a Job Site
| Factor | Prehung | Slab |
|---|---|---|
| Application | New construction, full renovation | Door replacement in existing frame |
| Installation time | 20–40 min | 45–90 min |
| Skill required | Intermediate | Advanced |
| Cost | Higher (includes jamb) | Lower (door only) |
| Consistency | High (factory-set reveal) | Variable (depends on installer) |
| Best for | New construction, multi-unit | Renovation, single replacement |
Rule: Use prehung for new construction and full renovation. Use slab only when replacing a door in an existing frame that is in good condition and square.
What's Included in a Prehung Door Unit
A standard prehung door unit includes:
- Door slab (hollow core, solid core, or solid wood)
- Split jamb (head jamb + 2 side jambs)
- 3 hinges (pre-mortised)
- Threshold (exterior units) or no threshold (interior units)
- Bore for hardware (standard 2-3/8" backset)
Not included: Casing (trim), door hardware (knob/lever, lock), weatherstripping (exterior units — check specification).
What Wholesale Prehung Doors Cost in 2025
| Configuration | Core | Wholesale Price |
|---|---|---|
| 32"×80" interior, prehung | Hollow core | $95–$145 |
| 36"×80" interior, prehung | Hollow core | $105–$160 |
| 32"×80" interior, prehung | Solid core | $155–$235 |
| 36"×80" interior, prehung | Solid core | $175–$260 |
| 36"×80" exterior, prehung | Solid wood | $280–$480 |
| 36"×80" exterior, prehung | Fiberglass | $380–$680 |
B2B Procurement Checklist
- [ ] Prehung or slab confirmed
- [ ] Size confirmed (width × height)
- [ ] Core type specified (hollow, solid core, solid wood)
- [ ] Swing direction specified (left-hand or right-hand)
- [ ] Inswing or outswing (exterior doors)
- [ ] Finish specified (primed, pre-finished, unfinished)
- [ ] Hardware bore specified (2-3/8" or 2-3/4" backset)
FAQ
Q: What is the difference between a prehung door and a pre-hung door?
A: They are the same thing. "Prehung" and "pre-hung" are used interchangeably in the industry.
Q: Do prehung doors come with the door knob?
A: No. Prehung doors include the jamb and hinges but not the door hardware (knob, lever, or lock). Hardware is ordered separately.
Q: What is a split jamb prehung door?
A: A split jamb door has a two-piece jamb that splits to accommodate different wall thicknesses. It is the standard for residential construction where wall thickness varies.
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