What Is the Average Door Width? A Quick Guide for Homeowners Before Installation

Guide to door sizes

Choosing a new door for your house involves more than just picking a style and color scheme. Getting the right door size is crucial for a proper fit and smooth operation. If you’re planning an installation, understanding the average door width is the first step. This guide breaks down standard door sizes to help you measure correctly and make the best choice for your space.

Knowing the average door size ensures your door not only fits but also complies with building codes. Whether you are looking at interior doors or exterior doors, the width and height are critical door measurements.

Understanding Standard vs. Custom Door Sizes

For most homes, a standard door will work perfectly. Manufacturers produce most doors in standard dimensions, which helps keep costs down and simplifies installation. A standard door height in the United States is typically 80 inches (6 feet, 8 inches). However, the width can vary depending on the door's location and purpose. The average door width is a key measurement to know before you buy.

Sometimes, a standard size won't work, especially in older homes or unique architectural designs. In these cases, custom doors are necessary. While they cost more, they ensure a perfect fit for any door opening. 

Exterior Doors: Making a First Impression

Exterior doors, like front doors and patio doors, have different requirements than interior doors . They need to be secure, weather-resistant, and wide enough for moving furniture.

The average door width for entry doors is 36 inches. The most common width for a standard door at the front of a house is 36 inches wide, and the door is 80 inches tall. You might also find other sizes, with a width range of 30 to 32 inches, but 36 inches is the standard. Newer homes often feature taller doors, up to 96 inches tall, for a grander entrance.

For a wider entryway, many homeowners choose a double door or French doors. The total width for these can range from 60 to 72 inches, creating an inviting entrance with plenty of natural light.

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Interior Doors: Defining Your Living Space

The average door size for interior doors is generally smaller than for exterior doors. The standard door height remains 80 inches, but the width of a standard door inside the home varies by room.

What is the Standard Bedroom Door Width?

When it comes to bedrooms, you need enough space to move furniture in and out. The standard bedroom door width is typically 32 inches. While some older homes might have narrower doors, the modern standard bedroom door width provides a comfortable opening . You'll find that 30 inches is also a common width. For a modern, space-saving solution, consider a sliding door for your bedroom. Our Magic 2 concealed hardware creates a floating illusion, perfect for a sleek bedroom design. The standard bedroom door width of 32 inches provides a good balance of access and wall space.

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Bathroom and Closet Doors

Bathroom doors and closet doors can be narrower because they don't require as much clearance. The average door width for these spaces is often between 24 and 32 inches. A common width of a standard door for a bathroom is 28 inches. Closet doors have the widest width range, from 24 to 36 inches, and can include bifold or sliding options.

Related Article: Making The Most Of Small Spaces: Doors, Storage, & Design

Sliding Glass Doors: Blurring Indoors and Out

Sliding glass door systems are fantastic for connecting your indoor and outdoor living areas. The standard sliding glass door width varies more than for a hinged door because they consist of multiple glass panels.

A two-panel sliding glass door is very common . The standard sliding glass door width for these is typically 60, 72, or 96 inches. The average door size for a patio door is often 72 inches wide and 80 inches tall. A wider standard sliding glass door width, like 96 inches, lets in more natural light and offers a greater view. For even larger openings, three- or four-panel systems are available, with a total width reaching up to 192 inches. When considering a sliding glass door, the standard sliding glass door width you choose will depend on the available wall space.

Our innovative hardware systems can transform any sliding glass door. The Magic 2 Vetro  is a concealed system designed for glass panels, giving your patio doors a seamless, modern look.

Magic 2 Vetro
Create a stunning, seamless transition to your patio. Our concealed sliding systems make it possible. Discover the Magic 2 system for wood and glass doors. 

How to Measure for a New Door

To ensure your new door will fit properly, you must take accurate door measurements. Don't just measure the existing door. You need to measure the rough opening in the wall.

The rough opening is the unfinished gap in the frame where the door will be installed. As a rule, the rough opening should be two inches wider and about two inches taller than the door itself. This extra space provides enough room for the door frame and door jamb, allowing the door to swing open without issues. For example, a standard door that is 36 inches wide and 80 inches tall needs a rough opening of approximately 38 inches by 82 inches.

Accessibility and Building Codes

Building codes often dictate minimum door widths, especially for entry doors and any door required for egress. Furthermore, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets standards for wheelchair access.

Average Door Width Infographic
Average Door Width Infographic CTA

Whether you choose a standard door size or need custom doors, the right hardware is essential for functionality and style. At Milcasa, we specialize in high-quality Italian-made hardware that elevates any door. Our concealed sliding door systems are perfect for creating a minimalist aesthetic, while our folding door hardware is ideal for maximizing space in smaller rooms.

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The Milcasa Difference: Hardware for Every Door

Whether you choose a standard door size or need custom doors, the right hardware is essential for functionality and style. At Milcasa, we specialize in high-quality Italian-made hardware that elevates any door. Our concealed sliding door systems are perfect for creating a minimalist aesthetic, while our folding door hardware is ideal for maximizing space in smaller rooms.

Choosing the right average door size and average door width is the foundation of a successful installation. With this guide, you can confidently select a door that fits your home perfectly.

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FAQ

What is the average door width for interior doors?

The average door width for interior doors typically ranges from 28 to 32 inches. The most common standard width for a standard bedroom door width is 32 inches, while bathroom doors and closet doors are often narrower at 28 or 30 inches.

How wide is a standard front door?

The width of a standard door for an exterior front entrance is 36 inches. The standard door height is 80 inches. This size provides ample space for moving furniture and ensures a welcoming entryway.

What is the standard sliding glass door width?

The standard sliding glass door width varies widely based on the number of panels. For a two-panel door, common widths are 60, 72, and 96 inches. The average door size for a patio is often 72 inches wide.

How do I measure my door opening?

You should measure the rough opening from stud to stud for the width and from the subfloor to the header for the height. Your rough opening should be about two inches wider and taller than the actual door to allow for the door frame and ensure a proper fit .

What door width is required for wheelchair access?

To comply with ADA guidelines for wheelchair access, a doorway should provide at least 32 inches of clear width. To achieve this, it is best to install a door that is 36 inches wide.

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