New York City Bilco Door Installer – Metro Cellar Door Bilco Pro

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much does a BILCO door cost to install

  The cost of a Bilco door installation varies depending on the product, site conditions, and whether it’s a new opening or a replacement. On average, most Bilco basement doors cost between $1,000 and $2,500 installed, including labor and materials. However, more complex basement door installations, like those involving custom concrete cutting or egress system upgrades, can go higher.

  Here’s what affects the price:

  • Product choice: Classic Series Basement doors, powder-coated options, and heavy-gauge steel models have different price points.
    
  • Site prep: If your basement foundation needs modification, expect additional charges.
    
  • Installer training and experience: Certified Bilco door installers like us ensure a quality installation that meets code and looks great.
    

  We always recommend contacting us for a detailed estimate. Every property is different, and our experienced installation contractors can assess your needs quickly. We supply doors directly from the manufacturer, cutting out middlemen and passing those savings on to you.

  Need more information? Just give us a call at (929) 979-7313 or fill out the contact form on our site.

• Can you add a BILCO door to a basement?

  Yes, you can absolutely add a Bilco door to an existing basement—even if there’s no prior exterior entry. This is a common upgrade for homeowners who want safer access, more ventilation, or a compliant basement egress solution.

  Here’s how it works:

  1. Site evaluation: We assess your foundation and yard space.
     
  2. Excavation: If needed, we dig out a new entry point.
     
  3. Installation: A new concrete areaway is formed, and your Bilco basement doors are installed with a watertight seal.
     
  4. Finishing touches: Steps, locks, weatherproofing, and trim are added.
     

  Adding a Bilco access point also allows for easier movement of large items like furniture or equipment. In many cases, especially with basement apartments or finished basements, it’s an essential safety upgrade.

  We specialize in product installation for these types of projects—making sure every system we install complies with local codes and looks clean. Whether it’s a standard classic series basement door or a custom layout, our company provides start-to-finish support.

  Interested? We’re ready to help. Just contact us to schedule a site check and get all the information you need.

• Do Bilco doors count as egress?

  A Bilco door can be considered a valid form of basement egress, but only if it meets local building codes and certain criteria. The International Residential Code (IRC) outlines strict rules about what qualifies as an egress route.

  To be counted as egress, the following must apply:

  • The door must open fully without obstruction.
    
  • The access products (stairs, wells, etc.) must allow for clear exit.
    
  • The opening should be large enough—typically at least 32 inches wide and 78 inches high.
    
  • There must be easy operation from the inside without special tools or keys.
    

  In many older NYC and NJ homes, Bilco doors installation doesn’t meet code on its own, especially if there’s no interior stairway or compliant egress window. But with the right configuration, Bilco basement doors can absolutely function as a safe and legal emergency exit.

  If you’re unsure whether your existing or planned product installation qualifies, our team can help. We’re trained in code-compliant system setups and can recommend the right access products—from egress stairs to code-approved wells.

  Still have questions? Contact our team and we’ll guide you based on your specific site and layout.

• Are BILCO doors necessary?

  While Bilco doors aren’t always legally required, they’re incredibly practical—and in many cases, the smartest upgrade you can make to your basement.

  Here’s why:

  • Convenient access: Carry in storage, furniture, and equipment without squeezing through narrow staircases.
    
  • Code compliance: For finished basements or legal apartments, a secondary exit is often mandatory.
    
  • Safety: In emergencies, especially fires or floods, a Bilco door offers a safe way out.
    
  • Weather resistance: Modern Bilco products are built to withstand rain, snow, and temperature shifts.
    
  • Increased home value: A functional, well-installed exterior entry boosts usability and resale value.
    

  Our Bilco door installers are highly trained to make sure every basement door installation is secure, watertight, and visually clean. Whether you’re retrofitting an older home or designing a new build, our company helps you choose the best access product for your space.

  We also offer quality installation with warranties, emergency services, and no middleman markup. So even if it’s not required by law, a Bilco door is a smart investment for any basement—finished or not.

  Need more information about whether it’s the right move for your home? Contact us anytime.

• What metal are BILCO doors made of?

  Bilco doors are made primarily from heavy-gauge steel or aluminum, depending on the series and model you choose. Both materials are known for their durability, strength, and long-term performance.

  Here’s a breakdown:

  • Classic Series Basement Doors: Made from 14-gauge galvanized steel. This model is highly resistant to rust and perfect for most standard installations.
    
  • Ultra Series: Constructed from high-strength aluminum with a powder-coated finish for additional corrosion resistance. Great for coastal areas or homes with high moisture.
    
  • Fire-Rated Models: These are also built from steel, reinforced to meet specific fire code standards. Used commonly in commercial applications or where egress safety is a top concern.
    

  Each Bilco door is factory-primed and ready for paint or powder-coated to extend its life. We source our products directly from the manufacturer, ensuring each product installation meets the highest quality standards.

  Our trained installation contractors make sure these metal doors are installed securely, sealed properly, and matched to your exact site dimensions. Whether you need Bilco basement doors, fire-rated entry, or a full system including wells and stairs—we’ve got you covered.

  Want help picking the right model for your home or business? Give us a call or fill out our contact form today.

NYC Professional Bilco Door Installer Services – Durable & Code-Compliant