As a homeowner, replacing entry doors is an inevitable task if you reside in the same home for an extended period of time. However, some homeowners are unsure how to measure exterior doors for replacement.
In this article, we provide a step-by-step instructional guide on obtaining the measurements for exterior doors. This ensures that your measurements are correct when it is time to order new doors for your home. Ordering the wrong size door means you need to reorder the doors, which involves additional time and money. Therefore, it is imperative to get the measurements right the first time. Always measure twice before recording the measurements.
How to Measure Exterior Doors For Replacement
How To Measure Replacement Entry Door For Existing Door & Frame
Step 1: Measure the Standard Door Width and Height Of the Interior Side
Measure the height and width of the door from the interior side to obtain the measurements for doors with beveled edges. As well, be sure to obtain the measurement for the door slab for thickness to determine the door swing.
Step 2: Measure the Door Height and Width of the Exterior Side
Repeat the above process for the height and width on the exterior side of the door frame.
Step 3: Measure the Door Hinges
Next, obtain measurements for the existing hinges. Start at the top of the slab and measure downward toward where the hinge pockets begin. As well as measure the depth of the hinge mortise. The measurements are to be taken from the door slab inside,
Step 4: Measure the Boring Specs of The Door
Starting at the top of the door slab and moving down, obtain the measurements from the center of the deadbolt to the center of the door handle. Don’t forget to measure the size of the back set, starting at the end of the door slab to the center of both the deadbolt hardware and the door handle.
How To Measure Exterior Doors For New Rough Opening
Step 1: Measure the Height and Width of the Rough Opening
If you are replacing the existing door, but the rough opening is different, measure the outer frame height and width and then measure the new rough opening.
Step 2: Measure the Jamb Width
The measurement of the jamb width is obtained from the interior finished wall and ends with the exterior finished wall.
Step 3: Determine the Swing of The Entry Door
The next step is to determine in which direction you prefer the exterior door to swing. The door will either swing inward to the house and to the left or right side or outside your home and to the right or left.
The final step is, of course, deciding what type of exterior door you prefer. There are dozens of stylish front doors to choose from.
Wood doors are the most popular when it comes to exterior doors. However, they are the least energy efficient and require a great deal of upkeep. Steel doors are energy efficient and are the best when it comes to home security. Fiberglass doors are the best option for energy efficiency, style, and longevity. Fiberglass doors are customizable in a variety of colors and finishes. They provide superior insulation and help lower energy costs by preventing air leakage.
Consider adding sidelights or decorative glass inserts to add style to your entryway. For enhanced security, add deadbolts, keyless locking systems, and safety lights for added peace of mind.
Contact Elegant Entry Doors if you need more help with how to measure exterior doors. Ask for a free quote for high-quality, energy-efficient and stylish entry doors for your home.
