Adding Value to Your Home
When you think about adding value to your home, it’s easy to imagine big, costly remodels. However, according to the 2025 Zonda Cost vs. Value Report, smaller, focused exterior improvements are what truly deliver the biggest payoff.
For the second year in a row, garage door replacement tops the list nationwide, with an average 267.7% return on investment (ROI). That’s more than double your money back at resale. Right behind it is steel entry door replacement, with an equally impressive 216.4% ROI.
Why these projects? Simple: curb appeal sells. When potential buyers pull up to your home, the front door and garage door make the first impression. Fresh, attractive doors signal that a home is well-maintained and move-in ready.
For homeowners in the Northeast U.S., replacing a garage door in 2025 offers one of the best ROIs compared to other home improvement projects. While costs can vary widely, a new garage door adds significant value by boosting curb appeal and improving energy efficiency.Â
Cost vs. Value Breakdown for 2025
Data from recent studies consistently show that homeowners can expect to recoup a very high percentage of their garage door replacement costs upon resale, often exceeding 90%.
Why a Garage Door Upgrade Leads the Pack
A new garage door instantly transforms a home’s exterior. It boosts style, safety, and energy efficiency all at once. Outdated or dented doors can make even a nice house look tired, while a modern, insulated door creates a clean, cared-for appearance.
Today’s garage doors offer more than just looks:
- Energy efficiency: Modern, insulated garage doors can lower heating and cooling costs, especially for garages attached to the home.
- Home security: Improved security and safety features protect your home. A new door with modern security features and a new opener offers added peace of mind.
- Smart technology lets you open and monitor your door from your phone.
- Curb appeal:Â The garage door can account for a significant portion of a home’s facade. An updated, attractive door makes a powerful first impression, increasing the home’s perceived value.
Estimated costs for 2025 in the Northeast
The total cost for a garage door replacement in the Northeast can range from $1,500 to over $4,500, depending on several factors. Labor rates and material availability in your specific area will impact the final price.Â
Factors influencing total project cost:
- Door material:Â Steel is a popular, durable, and affordable option, while wood is a more expensive choice that offers a premium, classic look. Aluminum is another lightweight option that holds up well in coastal areas.
- Door style:Â Standard panel doors are the most economical, while carriage-house, French, or glass roll-up doors are more premium and can significantly increase costs.
- Garage size:Â A double-car garage door naturally requires more materials than a single-car door, which increases the total cost.
- Insulation:Â Insulated doors cost more than non-insulated ones but can be a worthwhile upgrade for energy savings, especially in the cold Northeast climate.
- New opener: The replacement cost may or may not include a new garage door opener. The opener itself can add $200–$850 to the project.
- Labor and installation:Â In addition to the door itself, installation can add another $200 to $700 or more, depending on the job’s complexity.Â
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How to maximize your value
To get the most value for your money, consider these tips:
- Consider steel:Â A durable and long-lasting steel door can deliver excellent curb appeal without the high price tag of wood.
- Go with a standard style:Â Opting for a standard sectional or panel door over a custom design will keep costs low while still improving your home’s appearance.
- Add insulation:Â If you live in an area with cold winters, investing in an insulated door will provide real, year-round energy savings that buyers appreciate.
- Get a quote:Â Riverhead Building Supply can provide a complete estimate and ensure all costs, such as removal of the old door and a new opener, are included.Â
Our Garage Door Installation Process
At Riverhead Building Supply, we make upgrading your garage door easy from start to finish. Here’s how it works:
- Call us to get started. We’ll set up a convenient appointment to visit your home.
- On-site evaluation and measuring. We carefully inspect and measure your opening to ensure a perfect fit.
- Recommendations and options. With your budget and home style in mind, we’ll recommend doors that suit your needs—our most popular choice is the timeless white Craftsman-style door.
- Clear pricing and approval. You’ll receive a full quote for review and approval.
- Seamless scheduling. Once your new door arrives, we coordinate an installation date that works for you.
- We make it easy. Riverhead Building Supply handles everything from helping you choose the right garage door and opener to professional installation, usually completed in one day. We’ll remove and haul away your old door, too. Explore garage door services →
We also offer garage door repair services, so you can count on us long after the install is complete.
*Garage door installation and service is currently available in NY only.
Entry Doors: Your Home’s Handshake
The Zonda report ranks steel entry door replacements as the #2 project for resale value, showing that a simple front door upgrade can make a powerful impact.
A new steel or fiberglass door adds beauty, security, and energy savings. Therma-Tru® fiberglass doors, for example, combine the classic look of wood with low maintenance and excellent durability—perfect for the Northeast’s varied climate.
A welcoming, well-chosen front entry door tells visitors and buyers that your home is well cared for, modern, and efficient.
Why Homeowners Trust Riverhead Building Supply
We’re not just a supplier—we’re your local installation team. Our certified installers handle every step, and we stand behind every installation we perform. If you have questions after the job is done, our team is here for product support and service.
Whether you’re looking to refresh your curb appeal before selling or simply want to love how your home looks every time you pull into the driveway, Riverhead Building Supply makes it easy and rewarding.
Cost vs. Value for Entry Door Replacement in the Northeast
Entry door replacement in the Northeast offers a great ROI for the homeowner.
The most common choices for entry door materials are fiberglass, steel, and wood. Riverhead Building Supply can help you to select an entry door that provides a balance of energy efficiency, style, and long-term durability for homeowners planning to stay in their home for a while. The specific value of a project depends on your goals, budget, and local real estate market.Â
Cost vs. value comparison for entry doors (Northeast)
Feature | Steel Entry Door | Fiberglass Entry Door |
Typical Cost (2025 Northeast) | A basic model costs between $2,500 and $3,500, including installation. Custom finishes, decorative glass, or sidelights increase the price. | A mid-range model costs between $3,500 and $5,500, including installation. Prices increase for high-end wood grain finishes, decorative glass, and custom sizing. |
Resale Value (2025 Northeast) | The 2025 Cost vs. Value Report shows a steel entry door replacement in the New England region with an average resale value of 182.9%. This indicates that the project not only fully recoups its cost but also adds value to the home. | The same report for 2025 indicates a lower average ROI for fiberglass entry doors, though this can vary by specific model and region. While still a valuable upgrade, it does not typically offer the same immediate return as a steel door. |
Durability & Security | Steel doors are extremely strong, highly resistant to forced entry, and durable. They are a secure and cost-effective option. The main drawback is that they can be susceptible to rust if not maintained and can dent. | High-quality fiberglass doors are durable, dent-resistant, and won’t rust or rot. They are a good balance of durability and low maintenance. |
Appearance & Customization | Steel doors offer a more limited range of design options and are primarily available with a smooth finish, though some customizations are possible. | Fiberglass is highly versatile. It can be molded to mimic the look of real wood grain without the high maintenance. It can also be painted or stained and offers many options for glass inserts. |
Energy Efficiency | Both steel and fiberglass doors offer excellent energy efficiency, with insulated cores that help reduce heating and cooling costs. However, fiberglass is a better insulator than steel. | Fiberglass doors are superior insulators and will not conduct heat or cold, making them highly energy-efficient and suitable for the cold Northeast climate. |
Choosing the right door for your needs
To determine the best value, consider your primary objective for replacing the door:
- To maximize resale value:Â If your goal is to get the highest possible return on investment when selling your home, a steel entry door is the clear winner for 2025.
- For long-term energy savings and curb appeal:Â If you plan to live in your home for several more years, the longevity, low maintenance, and excellent insulation of a fiberglass door may be worth the higher upfront cost. Its versatility also provides a more significant impact on aesthetic curb appeal.
- For security and budget:Â For homeowners on a tighter budget who prioritize security, a steel door provides an excellent, cost-effective solution with a very high ROI.
We install it for you: Our team handles everything from measuring to installation. We also offer fiberglass and storm door options to suit your home’s style and needs. Explore entry door services →
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Why Choose Riverhead Building Supply for Installation?
We serve homeowners across Long Island, Eastern Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Southeastern Massachusetts, offering:
- Expert installation teams trained in window, door, kitchen, and cabinetry installs
- Flexible financing options starting at 9.99% APR for qualified buyers
- Service and repair for Andersen and Marvin products
- Showrooms and support across 20 locations
Learn more about our installation services →
Attainable Projects, Real Impact
These upgrades aren’t just high-value; they’re attainable. Whether you’re a new homeowner or preparing to sell, replacing your garage or entry door is a fast, affordable way to transform your home’s exterior.
Ready to get started? Visit one of our locations or schedule a consultation with our installation team today.
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*Data courtesy of zondahome.com
About the Zonda Cost vs. Value Report
The Cost vs. Value Report is published annually by Zonda, a leading provider of housing market research, data intelligence, and industry insights. With roots dating back to 1976, Zonda serves builders, remodelers, and real estate professionals across North America.
This report ranks common home remodeling projects by their return on investment (ROI) at resale, using real-world pricing data and surveys from real estate professionals. It’s widely recognized as a trusted resource for homeowners and industry experts alike.
