How to Measure an Exterior Door for Replacement

Measuring an exterior door for replacement involves a series of precise steps to ensure a perfect fit, saving time and effort during the installation process. This detailed guide will help you obtain accurate measurements and guide you through the entire process.

Tools You’ll Need

Tape measure Level (optional for checking the frame) Notepad and pencil

Steps to Measure Your Door

Measure the Door Width

Measure the width of the door from the inside of the frame. Take measurements at the top middle, middle, and bottom of the door. Use the widest measurement.

Measure the Door Height

Measure the height from the top of the door frame to the bottom. Again take measurements on both the left and right sides and use the longest measurement.

Measure the Door Thickness

Measure the thickness of the door. Standard doors are usually between 1 3/8 inches to 1 3/4 inches thick.

Check the Door Frame

Measure the rough opening of the door frame, the space where the door fits. Measure the opening width at the top middle and bottom. Measure the opening height on the left side, middle, and right. Ensure that the frame is square by checking the diagonal measurements from one corner to the opposite corner to see if they are equal.

Note the Swing Direction

Determine which way the door swings inward or outward and whether it opens to the left or right. This determines the handiness of the door (left-hand or right-hand).

Check for Additional Features

Measure for any additional features like sidelights, transoms, or existing hardware that may need to be replaced or adjusted.

Final Notes

Standard Sizes: Most exterior doors are typically 36 inches wide by 80 inches tall. If your measurements differ significantly and you plan to purchase a standard-sized door, keep this in mind.

Consider the Frame Condition: If the frame is damaged or warped, it may need to be replaced along with the door.

Taking accurate measurements is crucial to ensure that your new door fits perfectly, preventing issues during installation.

If you lack the know-how to perform these steps or measure accurately, consider hiring a professional contractor for the complete job. Home Depot or Lowe's can also provide professional measurements for a fee. It is often more time-effective and hassle-free to have a professional handle this task.