Doors are usually an afterthought in home design or remodeling, but they are an integral part of function and form aesthetics.
If you're looking to replace an old door or acquire a new one, but don't know what ideal door size to get, you've stumbled on the right blog.
In this post, you'll learn about the standard door sizes and how to choose the right fit.
Keep reading to find out more!
Standard Door Sizes for Residential Homes
Understanding standard door sizes can save you time, effort, and costly mistakes down the road. Here’s a breakdown of the most common dimensions regarding door height, width, and thickness.
Standard Door Dimensions
- Height: Most doors for residential spaces are 80 inches (6 feet, 8 inches) tall. Some newer homes or custom designs feature taller doors, reaching 84 to 96 inches (7 to 8 feet).
- Width: Interior doors typically range from 24 to 36 inches. Exterior doors, especially front doors, are commonly 36 inches wide but can go up to 42 inches in modern or luxury homes.
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Thickness:
- Interior doors are usually 1 3/8 inches thick.
- Exterior doors are thicker at 1 3/4 inches to provide better insulation and security.
Important: Rough Opening
It’s important to note that the rough opening (the space where the door and frame are installed) is slightly larger than the door itself. Add 2 inches to the door’s width and 2 inches to the height to determine the rough opening size. For instance, a 36x80-inch door will require a rough opening of 38x82 inches.
Standard Sizes of Different Types of Doors
Doors come in various styles, each with its own set of typical dimensions. Here’s an overview of the most common categories and their standard sizes.
Interior Doors
- Bedroom/Office Doors: Typically 28 to 36 inches wide and 80 inches tall.
- Bathroom Doors: Smaller, ranging from 28 to 32 inches wide.
- Closet Doors: Bifold doors often start as narrow as 24 inches, while swinging closet doors are usually 24 to 30 inches wide.
Exterior Doors
There are three main types of exterior doors - front doors, french doors, and sliding patio doors - and the standard door size for these categories of doors varies. Here is what you need to know;
- Front Doors:
The most common front door size is 36 inches wide by 80 inches tall, but modern designs increasingly favor wider options, such as 42 inches - some manufacturers offer doors in heights of 7 or 8 feet, especially for newer homes.
However, in terms of height, most front doors generally maintain a fixed height of 6ft or 8ft, with a standard thickness typically around 1¾ inches.
- French Doors:
French doors typically range from 48 to 72 inches in width - this enables them to accommodate two panels for a symmetrical and elegant look. The standard heights of these types of doors align with exterior doors at 80 inches, but some models extend to 96 inches.
- Sliding Patio Doors:
Sliding glass doors are a sleek, space-saving option that maximizes natural light and outdoor access. The standard size is 6 feet wide by 6 feet 8 inches tall, though larger variations, such as 5’0” x 8’0”, 6’0” x 8’0”, and 8’0” x 8’0”, are available for contemporary homes.
How to Measure Your Door Size Correctly
If you’re wondering how to measure your door size correctly, we’ve outlined the step-by-step procedure to execute the task below;
Step 1: Take the Door Measurements
- Height: Measure the height of the door from the top edge to the bottom edge.
- Width: Take the door's top, middle, and bottom measurements. Also, it’s advisable to use the smallest measurement for accuracy.
- Thickness: Another important measurement to take is the thickness of the door. Most doors are usually between 1 3/8 and 1 3/4 inches.
Step 2: Measure the Frame or Rough Opening
- Height and Width: Measure the entire frame's height and width (not just the door). Add 2 inches to the actual measurement for the rough opening.
- Depth of Jambs: Lastly, measure the depth of the door jambs. This is to ensure the door sits well with the wall.
Note: If the measuring seems tricky for you, seek professional help.
What to Consider When Choosing a New Door
Besides size, there are other several important factors that you need to consider when choosing a new door for your home.
- Accessibility:
If you have a household member who uses a wheelchair or mobility aid, door width is crucial for easy movement. A minimum of 36 inches ensures smooth entry and exit without restrictions.
- Swing Direction:
The way a door swings can impact your space more than you think. For example, inward-swinging doors are ideal for bedrooms, while outward swings can maximize space in smaller areas like pantries.
- Climate:
For exterior doors, insulation is essential. An insulated door will keep indoor temperature, conserve energy, and keep your home comfortable all year round. Opt for doors that are designed with materials like fiberglass, steel, or solid wood with thermal breaks and weather stripping.
Bonus: Enhance Your Home Security with a Smart Lock
Upgrading your door isn’t complete without bolstering security. A smart lock can take your front door’s security and convenience to the next level. A smart lock that has been a game changer for many households is the eufy FamiLock S3 Max.
The eufy FamiLock S3 Max is not like the regular smart locks. This lock introduces palm vein unlocking technology to home security, enabling you to control your door lock with your palm vein. It reduces the chances of forgery, is unique to each individual, and remains consistent over time.
Additionally, it is compatible with Matter, allowing you to seamlessly integrate it into your current smart home setup, whether you use Apple Home, Google Home, or others.
Key Features
- Boasts long-lasting battery life with its rechargeable 15,000 mAh lithium battery, and additional 4 AAA batteries for backup.
- It offers a WiFi-6 connection for faster connectivity.
- It offers triple security features, including a crisp 2k HD camera, and a video doorbell.
FAQs
What are the most common door sizes for homes?
Interior doors are generally 80 inches tall and range from 24 to 36 inches wide. Exterior doors are usually 36 inches wide and 80 inches tall.
Can I install a larger door without rebuilding the frame?
No, installing a larger door requires resizing the rough opening. This involves cutting into the wall and redoing the frame.
What makes a smart lock better than a traditional lock?
Smart locks provide added convenience with keyless entry and advanced features like remote access, activity tracking, and enhanced security against tampering.
How can I ensure my measurements are accurate?
Use a tape measure and focus on measuring height, width, and depth. When in doubt, consult a professional to verify.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect door is more than just a functional decision—it sets the tone for your home. Understanding standard sizes, properly measuring, and considering factors like accessibility and design can help you make an informed choice. To truly elevate your door’s style and security, consider adding a smart lock like eufy’s FamiLock S3 Max.