Have you ever faced the hassle of ordering a stylish new door, only to discover later that it doesn’t fit your frame? A proper understanding of door sizes and the right way to measure them can help you avoid wasted time, unnecessary expenses, and frustration.
When it comes to dimensions, doors don’t all follow one rule. Interior doors are usually built at 80 inches in height, 36 inches in width, and about 1⅜ inches in thickness. Exterior doors, on the other hand, generally share the same height and width but are slightly thicker—around 1¾ inches.
Still, the actual size often varies based on design and placement. For instance, widths may fall anywhere between 30 and 45 inches, while heights can range from 71 up to 96 inches.
In this article, we’ll break down standard door dimensions in detail—covering height, width, and thickness, as well as the differences between interior, exterior, and other common door types.
We’ll also provide practical guidance on how to measure a door by yourself, ensuring you pick the right fit every time. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about the average height of a door and beyond.
Why Do Door Sizes Follow Standards?
Imagine if every single door required its own specially made frame—construction expenses would skyrocket! Thankfully, standard door sizes exist, making it much simpler and more affordable to manufacture, install, and replace doors.
Most modern homes (around 90%) rely on these standard measurements, which ensures that doors can be swapped out easily, produced efficiently, and used comfortably with household furniture and appliances. For example, a 36-inch width is wide enough for wheelchair access, while an 80-inch height provides sufficient clearance for the vast majority of adults.
Standardization benefits not only manufacturers, who can produce doors in large batches at lower costs, but also homeowners, who save money when it comes time for replacements. Of course, some older properties or custom-built houses may feature unusual dimensions, and those situations often complicate the replacement process.
In general, sticking with common door widths prevents unexpected costs and keeps both building and renovation projects more practical.
average height of a door
| Standardization Advantage | Real-World Impact |
|---|---|
|
Reduced material waste |
Pre-cut framing lumber fits 80% of doors |
|
Faster installations |
No custom adjustments for typical homes |
|
Lower inventory costs |
Home centers stock 5 core sizes |
Fun fact: The 36″ standard emerged because it’s exactly half the width of traditional 72″ fabric bolts used for historic door drapes.
Common Standard Door Dimensions
Not all doors are designed alike, and that’s intentional. Factors such as height, width, and thickness vary because each door is meant to serve a specific function. In the next sections, we’ll take a closer look at these three aspects. Let’s begin with the first one.
Most standard doors generally fit within these measurements: width ranging from 30 to 36 inches, height between 80 and 96 inches, and thickness from 1⅜ to 1¾ inches. However, there are exceptions—closet bi-fold doors often come in narrower sizes, while grand entryways may stretch beyond 48 inches in width.
Average Door Width
Choosing the right door width can feel a bit like piecing together a puzzle. The exact size often depends on where the door will be installed and several other factors. While the typical width for a door is about 36 inches (3 feet), it can range anywhere from 24 inches to more than 48 inches depending on its purpose. Below are some common applications:
| Width | Primary Uses | Space Considerations |
|---|---|---|
|
24″ |
Closets, pantries |
Saves space but limits access |
|
28 |
Half baths, laundry |
Compromise for tight areas |
|
30″ |
Full baths, bedrooms |
ADA-compliant minimum |
|
32 |
Bedrooms, offices |
Standard interior passage |
|
36″ |
Main entries, accessible |
Wheelchair-friendly standard |
|
42″+ |
Luxury entries, pivot |
Requires custom framing |
Critical factors affecting width:
- ADA Compliance: 36″ clear opening (32″ door + frame)
- Furniture Access: 36″+ needed for moving appliances
- Historic Homes: Often 30-32″ for original layouts
Pro Tip: In renovations, always verify actual opening size – many “32-inch doors” actually measure 31.5″ to fit frames.
Average Door Height
Have you ever hit your head on a short doorway or found tall doors difficult to manage? The standard height for most doors is about 80 inches (6 feet 8 inches), but depending on the building’s age, architectural style, or local codes, it can range from 78 inches to well over 96 inches. Here’s a breakdown of the typical variations in door height:
| Height | Equivalent | Typical Applications | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
|
78″ |
6’6″ |
Older homes, basements |
May not meet modern building codes |
|
80″ |
6’8″ |
Standard residential |
Fits 95% of adults comfortably |
|
84″ |
7′ |
Modern high-ceiling homes |
Requires 8′ ceilings minimum |
|
90″ |
7’6″ |
Luxury residences |
Adds $200+ per door for custom sizing |
|
96″+ |
8′ |
Grand entryways, commercial |
Needs structural reinforcement |
Important Factors Affecting Height:
Ceiling Height: In homes with standard 8-foot ceilings, doors are usually 80 inches tall.
Accessibilité : For wheelchair access, an 80-inch minimum height is generally recommended.
Historical Context: Houses built before 1950 often feature doors around 78 inches in height.
Regional Differences: In Europe, door heights are commonly about 210 cm (82.6 inches).
Pro Tip: When replacing doors in older properties, always take measurements of the rough opening instead of assuming modern standards. A 78-inch door needs different framing compared to today’s 80-inch standard.
How Thick Are Most Doors?
Have you ever leaned on a lightweight door and instantly doubted its security? Typically, interior doors are about 1⅜ inches (35 mm) thick, while exterior doors are usually around 1¾ inches (44 mm).
Before choosing the right thickness, it’s important to understand the difference between thinner and thicker doors. Heavier doors not only offer better protection against harsh weather and potential intruders but also provide improved insulation and even soundproofing.
| Type | Thickness | Best For | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Standard Interior |
1⅜” (35mm) |
Bedrooms, bathrooms |
Lightweight (easier for kids/elderly) |
|
Solid Core Interior |
1¾” (44mm) |
Offices, media rooms |
Better soundproofing (+$50-$100 per door) |
|
Standard Exterior |
1¾” (44mm) |
Front/back entries |
Weather resistance & security |
|
Security Doors |
2″+ (50mm) |
High-risk areas |
Requires reinforced framing |
Advantages of Thicker Doors (1¾” or more):
Blocks up to three times more noise (with an STC rating increase of about 15 points)
Provides 300% greater resistance to forced entry attempts
Enhances insulation, adding about +2 to the R-value
Disadvantages of Thicker Doors:
Heavier by 15–25 pounds, making them harder to handle
May require stronger hinges, costing around $8–$15 each
Typically 20–35% more expensive than standard doors
Conseil : When replacing a door, ensure the new jamb depth matches the old one precisely. Even a quarter-inch difference in thickness can lead to over $200 in reframing costs. Always measure from edge to edge before purchasing.
Rough Opening Size vs. Door Size: Key Differences
Have you ever purchased a door only to realize it doesn’t fit the frame? That’s exactly why measurements include an additional two inches, covering both height and width.
Standard Door vs. Rough Opening Formula:
Door Size: 36″ x 80″ (typical entry door)
Rough Opening Size: 38″ x 82″
Reason: This extra space allows for shims, proper leveling, and insulation.
So, for a 36 x 80 door, the correct rough opening should be 38 x 82. Interested in finding reliable suppliers? Below is a list of the top ten door and window manufacturers in China.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Believing a 36″ door will fit perfectly in a 36″ opening (it won’t close properly)
Overlooking flooring height (extra clearance may be needed for thick flooring)
Forgetting that different door types—such as pocket, sliding, or barn doors—require unique rough opening dimensions
Standard Door Sizes by Location
Door dimensions are influenced heavily by their location, more than many people realize. Interior and exterior doors serve different functions, which is why their sizes vary.
To make things clearer, we’ll look at the standard measurements for interior and exterior doors separately. Exterior doors are usually thicker, around 1¾ inches, designed to improve insulation and enhance security against intruders. Interior doors, on the other hand, are generally thinner at about 1⅜ inches, helping conserve space. Below, we’ll explore the typical sizes for each in greater detail.
Exterior Door Sizes
Exterior doors are both ways to get into a house and parts of its architecture. Usually put at the front door, back door, and terrace. They can also be used for balconies and garages. The standard measurements are as follows:
| Fonctionnalité | Standard Size | Modern Trend | Luxury Option |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Height |
80″ (6’8″) |
84″ (7′) |
96″+ (8’+) |
|
Width |
36″ |
42″ |
48″-60″ |
|
Thickness |
1¾” |
2″ |
2½”+ |
|
Material |
Steel/wood |
Fiberglass |
Wrought iron |
Key Considerations
Minimum Code Requirements:
A 32″ clear opening (which requires at least a 34″ door) is needed for accessibility.
A minimum thickness of 1¾” helps ensure better energy efficiency.
Weatherstripping must comply with ASTM E283 standards.
Height Variations:
80″: The traditional standard, suitable for homes with 8-foot ceilings.
84″: A modern choice, often preferred for taller residents.
96″+: Used to create bold, dramatic architectural statements.
Width Options:
Pivot doors (48″+): Increasingly seen as a luxury home status symbol.
Double doors: Require a minimum total width of 60″ (32″ + 32″).
ADA compliance: Calls for at least 36″ of clear passage.
Commercial vs. Residential:
Residential doors are typically single 36×80″ units.
Commercial spaces often use doors starting at 42×84″ or larger.
Pro Tip:
When upgrading older homes, always confirm:
The structure can support oversized doors.
Proper header requirements (at least 2×8 for doors wider than 48″).
Threshold compatibility with the new door thickness.
Interior Door Sizes
Interior doors serve more than just the function of dividing rooms—they also help reduce noise and provide privacy. Their dimensions can differ based on location and purpose.
Below is a detailed chart outlining the most common interior door sizes and their typical uses:
| Width | 80" Height (Traditional) | 84" Height (Modern) | 96" Height (Luxury) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
24″ |
Utility closets |
Walk-in closets |
Grand entries |
|
28″ |
Half-baths |
ADA-compliant baths |
Home theaters |
|
30″ |
Secondary bedrooms |
Master suites |
Media rooms
|
|
32″ |
Standard bedrooms |
Wheelchair accessible |
Double-door systems
|
|
36″ |
Primary circulation paths |
Open-concept transitions |
Statement passages |
Shifting Heights:
Doors with an 82″ height now make up 27% of new builds, a significant rise from 12% in 2018.
The 96″ option is experiencing the fastest growth in luxury markets, with an 18% year-over-year increase.
Width Innovations:
The 28″ width is increasingly replacing 24″ as the minimum standard for bedrooms.
Five-panel 36″ doors have surpassed 32″ models in sales.
Material Preferences:
Hollow-core doors account for 62% of all interior door sales.
Solid-core doors now hold 22%, up from 15% in 2020.
Technical Considerations:
For rough openings, always add 2 inches to both width and height.
Be sure to check wall thickness and confirm whether you need a door slab or a pre-hung door.
Hardware Compatibility:
Hinges for 1-3/8″ doors support up to 8 lbs each.
Hinges for 1-3/4″ doors can handle up to 12 lbs each.
Pro Tip:
When specifying 96″ doors, ensure the following:
Use at least three hinges.
Include reinforced strike plates.
Install oversized door stops for added stability.
Standard Sizes by Door Type
There are many types of doors, and their dimensions vary based on design and intended use. Below are the standard sizes for some of the most common styles. Let’s take a closer look.
French Door Dimensions
French doors typically come in two standard heights: 80 inches and 96 inches. That translates to 6 feet 8 inches or 8 feet tall. The width depends largely on available space, usually ranging from 24 to 42 inches.
Height Standards
Traditional Option (80″ / 6’8″) – A classic choice that fits most existing homes.
Luxury Option (96″ / 8′) – Creates a bold, upscale look and now accounts for about 40% of new installations.
Emerging Trend (84″ / 7′) – A growing “in-between” choice that’s becoming increasingly popular.
Width Guidelines
Single Door Configurations:
Minimum Functional Width: 30″ (anything narrower tends to feel restrictive).
Most Common Range: 32″–36″ (offers the best balance of style and usability).
Grand Entrances: Up to 42″ (requires heavy-duty, reinforced hinges).
Double Door Pairs:
Pro Tip: Always add 1 inch for proper overlap when installing.
| Design Style | Single Door Width | Total System Width | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Classic |
30″ each |
61″ total |
Condos |
|
Standard |
32″ each |
65″ total |
Family Homes |
|
Luxury |
36″ each |
73″ total |
Open Floor Plans |
Sliding Glass Door Dimensions
The average size of sliding glass doors is 6.8 by 6.0. You might possibly find some other sizes, though. Some of the most common options are:
| Size (ft) | Application | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
|
5’0″ x 6’8″ |
Small patios, condos |
Fits tight spaces (most urban apartments) |
|
6’0″ x 6’8″ |
Standard homes |
Balances cost & functionality |
|
8’0″ x 6’8″ |
Open-concept rooms |
Best for indoor-outdoor flow |
|
6’0″ x 8’0″ |
Luxury homes |
Taller = more natural light |
|
8’0″ x 8’0″ |
Commercial/grand entries |
High-end modern designs |
Key Trends
- Most Ordered Size: 6’0″ x 6’8″ (60% of installations)
- Fastest-Growing: 8’0″ x 8’0″ (+22% YoY in luxury homes)
- Frame Materials:
- Vinyl (70% share) – Best for insulation
- Aluminum (25%) – Sleek but conducts heat/cold
- Fiberglass (5%) – Premium, ultra-durable
Closet & Utility Door Size
In older houses, some openings measure only about 18 inches in width, so closet and utility doors are often narrower than standard doors. In contrast, most modern homes typically feature closet doors that are about 30 inches wide.
The usual height for standard closet and utility doors is around 80 inches, matching the ceiling height. In homes with ceilings 8 feet or taller, utility doors are commonly built at 96 inches (8 feet). You can find more details about typical closet dimensions in this article.
| Door Type | Width Range | Height | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Reach-in Closet |
24″-30″ |
80″ |
Most common: 28″ |
|
Walk-in Closet |
30″-36″ |
80″-96″ |
96″ trending in new builds |
|
Linen Closet |
18″-22″ |
80″ |
Narrow shelves need narrow access |
|
Pantry |
28″-32″ |
80″ |
32″ fits appliance roll-outs |
|
Utility/Laundry |
30″-32″ |
80″ |
Wider for laundry baskets |
Bi-Fold Door Size
There has been a big rise in the popularity of bi-fold doors lately. The usual sizes for these doors are as follows:
1. Width (Per Panel)
| Panel Count | Standard Width Range | Most Common Use Case |
|---|---|---|
|
Single Panel |
18″–24″ |
Narrow reach-in closets or linen storage |
|
Double Panel (2-Panel) |
24″–30″ |
Standard bedroom closets (most popular option) |
|
Triple Panel (4-Panel Total) |
32″–36″ |
80″ |
|
Pantry |
28″-32″ |
Walk-in closets, laundry rooms |
|
Custom Wide (>36″) |
Up to 72″ (multi-panel) |
Large wardrobes, room dividers |
Key Insight:
- Optimal Functionality: 30″ per panel allows full access without overextending tracks.
- Minimum Clearance: 22″ opening needed for a 24″ bifold door.
2. Height
| Option | Common Use |
|---|---|
|
80″ (6’8″) |
Standard ceiling height (90% of homes) |
|
96″ (8’0″) |
High ceilings, modern luxury homes (growing demand) |
|
84″ (7’0″) |
Custom mid-height (becoming a trend in remodels) |
Note: 96″ bifold doors require heavy-duty top tracks to prevent sagging.
3. Thickness & Material Impact
| Thickness | Best For | Common Materials |
|---|---|---|
|
1 3/8” (35mm) |
Lightweight interior closet doors |
Hollow core, MDF, laminate |
|
1 5/8” (41mm) |
Heavy-duty, exterior, or soundproofing |
Solid wood, fiberglass |
Pocket Door Size
Pocket doors make better use of space in small locations, but they need to be the right size to work properly. Having fixed a lot of stuck tracks, here’s what actually works in real-world applications.
| Measurement | Single Door | Double Door | Critical Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Width |
28″-36″ |
56″-72″ |
– 32″ is the gold standard (fits ADA requirements)
– Beyond 36″ requires reinforced tracks |
|
Height |
80″ (6’8″) |
80″ (6’8″) |
– 96″ heights available (add $300-$500 per door) |
|
Thickness |
1 3/8″ – 1 3/4″ |
1 3/8″ – 1 3/4″ |
– Thinner doors (<1 1/2") cheaper but more prone to warping |
Barn Door Size
Barn doors blend rustic charm with space-saving function, but if the dimensions are wrong, they might leave gaps, cause friction, or not cover enough area. This is what high-end home builders and designers really want in 2025.
| Measurement | Residential Standard | Commercial/ADA | Pro Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Width |
36″-48″ (single) |
48″-60″ |
– Add 4-6″ wider than opening
– Double doors start at 72″ (36″ per panel) |
|
Height |
84″ (7′) |
80″-96″ |
– 84″ covers 8′ ceilings with trim
– 96″ for floor-to-ceiling drama |
|
Thickness |
1⅜” – 2″ |
1¾” – 2¼” |
– Thicker doors (>1½”) resist warping
– 2″ max for standard hardware |
How to Measure a Door Correctly
Taking accurate measurements of your door before buying a replacement can save you from costly returns and installation issues. All you really need is a tape measure and a few careful checks. We’ve broken the process down into three simple steps:
Step 1: Measure the Door
Start by measuring the door itself. Record the full height from the bottom edge to the very top. Then measure the width from one side to the other.
Width
Measure across the center of the door, edge to edge.
For older doors, take three measurements—top, middle, and bottom—to check if the door has warped.
Height
Measure from the very bottom to the top edge of the door slab.
Don’t forget to confirm the thickness as well. Most doors are 1 ¾ inches thick, so your replacement should match. Always take the size of the existing door before installing a new one.
Step 2: Measure the Frame & Jamb
Next, measure the frame and jamb to ensure the new door will fit properly. The jamb refers to the section of the frame located inside the doorway—this step is easy to overlook, but it’s important.
Frame Width
Measure the visible frame, which is usually ⅝” to 1¼” wider than the door.
Jamb Depth (Wall Thickness)
Measure from the wall surface to the door stop.
Typical depths include 4⅝” for standard walls and 6⅝” for walls with extra insulation.
When measuring for a replacement, only measure the opening itself. Excluding the trim is key to avoiding inaccurate results.
Step 3: Measure the Rough Opening
Finally, allow space for the rough opening by adding 2 inches to both the door’s width and height.
Rough Opening Width
Door width + 2″ (gives space for shims and adjustments).
Example: A 30″ door requires a 32″ rough opening.
Rough Opening Height
Door height + 2″ (accounts for the sill and header space).
This step ensures you have enough room for installation, whether you’re working with a pre-hung door or swapping out an existing one.
If you already know the rough opening, the process is even easier: simply subtract 2 inches from both the width and height to determine the correct door size. Share these dimensions with the manufacturer to get a perfect fit.
Conclusion
A standard door typically measures 36 inches in width and 80 inches in height. For thickness, most interior doors are about 1 3/8 inches, while exterior doors are usually 1 3/4 inches. Having a general idea of these common sizes is useful when shopping for a new door.
Understanding standard door widths can help you plan your project and estimate costs, but it’s always best to take exact measurements before making a purchase. Accurate sizing not only makes installation smoother but also ensures the door functions well and lasts longer.
Getting professional advice can also simplify the process. George Constructions offers a wide selection of high-quality doors in standard dimensions, making it easy to find the right fit for your home. Their experts can guide you in selecting a replacement door—whether you’re upgrading an old one or choosing a more energy-efficient option.
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