Interior doors can come in various sizes, ranging from narrow doors to double or triple-panel doors. Before installation, it is essential to determine the correct dimensions of the door opening to ensure that the door frame and door fit precisely within the opening.
In Short, the Most Important Points
Door widths come in different standard sizes—whether for interior or exterior use. There are also important standard dimensions for wall openings, door panel sizes, and the external dimensions of door frames. During measurement, it’s crucial to pay attention to the interdependence of dimensions between the door frame and the door panel.
Advantages of Overall Measurement
Considering cost and cost-effectiveness, it makes sense to provide door openings (including frames) that accommodate standard sizes for interior doors. One significant advantage of this approach is that it allows for simple replacements when renovating or redesigning living spaces. This can be a challenge with non-standard doors, as they must be ordered precisely for installation. Cost factors play a vital role here. However, in general, the opening direction of interior doors—right-hand or left-hand—has consistent pricing with door manufacturers.
What is the Standard Width for Doors?
This means that most interior and exterior door panels have standard sizes. Depending on the type, some information regarding door dimensions is provided:
Interior Doors
Passage Doors: The standard width for interior passage doors is 32 inches, which is described as a “2/8” door. This is the minimum recommended width for a passage door and is required for renovations, additions, or new construction in many areas.
Wider Interior Doors: 36-inch-wide doors are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). They are popular choices for homes whose residents have mobility issues, or for homeowners who are planning to age in place.
Exterior Doors
The standard width for exterior doors is usually 36 inches. This extra width makes it easier to move furniture and large items in and out of the home, while also providing better security. Larger homes or custom-built houses might feature doors as wide as 42 inches or more.
Sliding Doors
The width of sliding glass doors can vary, but the most common width is 72 inches, which accommodates two glass panels, one fixed and one that slides. However, they can also be 60 inches wide for narrower doors, or span up to 96 inches or more for larger openings.
French Doors
Each door in a pair of French doors is generally between 30 and 72 inches wide.
How to Measure for a Properly Fitting Interior Door
Accurate measurements are essential for correctly installing a door frame. Door frames and door panels are typically ordered together. If the frame is installed correctly, the door panel will usually fit well. If you already have a frame and only need to replace the door panel, measure the “old” door. It’s important to pay attention to the overlap dimensions and thickness of the door; don’t forget to measure these areas, or your interior door may not fit perfectly. We recommend contacting us at Grandsea before measuring, as we have years of experience in manufacturing interior doors, and your challenges are quite common in the eyes of our experts.
Special-Sized Interior Doors
If your measurements do not match the standard sizes mentioned above, you will need special-sized interior doors. This is often necessary when renovating older buildings that require new doors. Older structures typically do not have standardized door openings, so custom products become a necessity. Sometimes, this is also required for designer homes with unique door openings and widths. Some manufacturers can provide special sizes upon request.
Which Room Fits Which Size?
Standard doors can be installed in various rooms, such as closets, bathrooms, living rooms, and basements. Depending on how the room will be used, larger or smaller doors may make sense. The height of the door should visually align with the height of the room.
Other Door Width Sizes for Different Uses
If an apartment or house is designed to accommodate wheelchair access, we generally recommend a minimum door width of 39 inches (985 mm) to ensure comfortable movement. Special sizes may be necessary since some wheelchairs are 50 inches (1270 mm) wide. This also applies to spaces like daycare centers, practice rooms, or public buildings where standard door widths may not suffice. For all purposes outside private areas, choose sizes that allow strollers and wheelchairs to enter easily. It’s especially important to optimize wall openings in advance.
What is the Recommended Height for Interior Doors?
The height of the room is crucial when selecting the height of the door. Visually, the size of the door should coordinate with the height of the room. In some cases, it may be necessary to choose taller doors, especially if you plan to use the room as a workshop or need to move larger items in and out frequently.
How Do Measurements Impact Door Costs?
Generally speaking, larger and wider room doors tend to be more expensive. Expectations for custom products are significantly higher. When renovating or constructing new buildings, all these factors should be calculated beforehand. Choosing a reliable door manufacturer is important; responsible manufacturers will provide detailed configurations for custom doors and windows so you can clearly understand each expense!
