measure doorway

 

Most people would likely assume that the prospect of measuring a door opening is simple and easy. The mental math is relatively straightforward of course; all one should need is a tape measure and a moment of time. However, there is an element of experience and knowledge that can come into play during measurements that can prevent unnecessary inconvenience in the future. With a little know-how, you will be able to both complete your own door measurements and also rest assured that they are reliable. 

 

Accurate door measurements are crucial because, in many circumstances, door replacements are part of larger projects. At a minimum, your door opening will need to be closed expeditiously, lest you’d like to have no door overnight. This is why it’s important that the measurements are accurate: so that the new door fits where it should when it comes. 

 

Regardless of whether you’re working with an interior door, an exterior door, or any other kind of door, the following door measurement tips will apply. 

 

Keep it visual

A good rule of thumb to follow, which will help you prevent confusion and misunderstanding, is to visualize the measurement process. Documenting the dimensions sometimes is not enough to prevent the possibility of mishap, so aid that documentation with visuals such as a drawing or diagram. 

 

You do not need to be an experienced artist or architect to complete the task–simply draw things in a way you understand. Be sure to draw the door on a piece of paper, and make note of the side of the door you’re on (inside or outside). 

 

If you’re inside of the house that the door enters, that means you’re “inside”. Similarly, if you’re inside a bedroom that the door enters, you’re “inside”. 

 

Additionally, record where the hinges are located. Some doors have two sets of hinges, and some have three or more. Ensure that all dimensions of the door are recorded on the diagram appropriately, including height, width, and depth. 

Do not forget door swing and the handle

While the physical door, itself, is relatively straightforward to measure, there are some additional measurements that you’d be wise to perform, as well. These include the door’s swing and handle dimensions. 

Staying consistent with your reference point as you went about creating your door measurement diagram, determine whether the door swings in toward you or if it swings out, away from you. Technically speaking, if the door swings into whatever area it leads to, it’s called an in-swing door. If it swings outwards from the area it leads into, then it’s aptly called an out-swing door. 

The swing direction of the door is what will help make sure the hinges are properly installed. However, knowing the proper location of the door’s handle is also crucial for the new door fabrication or acquisition process. 

Determine the side that the door handle is on: either the left or right? The positioning of the door handle is what determines the door swing direction (also known as the door’s handing), which you’ll want to make sure is documented and communicated to the relevant parties that are involved in your new door’s fabrication and installation. 

If, while standing on the inside side of the door, facing it, the handle is to your right, then it is a right-hand door. If it’s on your left, then it’s a left-hand door.

Properly communicating the door’s handing and swing direction will make sure the new door fits and functions as it should. 

Additional useful tips

  • Be sure to familiarize yourself with how to properly use a tape measure. The little metal piece that’s attached to the tip of the tape is intentionally left loose to accommodate a 16th of an inch when the tape is either hooked around an edge or butted against a surface. 
  • The old adage “measure twice, cut once” is popular for a reason: it’s good advice. Make sure you double-check all of your measurements and don’t hesitate to triple-check, either. Being extra confident in your measurements can make a huge difference in ensuring that you don’t run into any issues with your door replacement project. 
  • Make sure you’re investing in a reputable door company and working with credentialed experts as you go about sourcing your door. A high-quality door that’s properly manufactured will ensure that the door’s measurements are accurate and consistent. Your measurements are only as good as they are properly followed, so be sure to do your research and only work with reputable companies. 
  • If you’re measuring for multiple doors of different sizes, it will probably be wise to draw a floorplan diagram, mapping where each door is and making note of its specific dimensions on the back of the diagram.