The number a homeowner remembers is usually the headline door price — "a new garage door is about $2,000." The number that actually shows up on the invoice is often higher, not because of hidden fees exactly, but because of real add-ons that don't get mentioned until the sales visit.
The most common ones
- Old door haul-away and disposal — often not included by default, typically $95 for a single door and $135 for a double
- Opener replacement or upgrade — if the existing opener isn't compatible with the new door's weight or your desired features
- Track or frame repair — if the existing opening has damage or wear that the installer discovers on-site
- Electrical work — if a new smart opener needs a dedicated outlet that isn't already there
- Windows, upgraded hardware, or custom color — priced as add-ons on top of the base door price
- Permit fees — required in some Washington jurisdictions, and not always included in a contractor's quoted number
Why this happens with in-person-only quotes
Companies that only quote after an in-home sales visit have every incentive to lead with the lowest plausible number and add items once you're already invested in the conversation. It's not necessarily dishonest — some items genuinely can't be priced without seeing the garage — but it does mean the number you hear first often isn't the number you'll pay.
How to avoid the surprise
Ask directly whether haul-away, permits, and any opener work are included in the quoted price, or itemized separately. A company that gives you an itemized, exact price upfront — door, labor, and clearly labeled add-ons — is easier to compare and budget against than one that gives a single bundled range.
Our wizard itemizes every add-on, including haul-away, before you ever schedule an inspection — so the price you see is the price on the invoice, not a starting point for negotiation.