Do you need to replace your front door but don’t know where to start? Before you can shop for the perfect new door, you must accurately measure your current one. Getting the measurements wrong could lead to an ill-fitting replacement, so it pays to take your time and make sure none of the numbers are off.
In this blog post, we’ll explain step-by-step how to measure front door for replacement so that you can get started on improving the look and functionality of your home in no time!
Do You Measure a Front Door from the inside or the outside?
When measuring a front door for replacement, it is important to measure from the inside of the house. This will ensure that your door fits correctly within the space and have a proper seal between the wall and door frame.
When taking measurements, be sure to measure both sides of the current door (height & width) as well as measure the depth of the door frame to ensure that your new door will fit smoothly and securely.
Be mindful of any obstructions like windowpanes, locks, or doorknobs that may add additional width or height to the current door as you measure. Additionally, check for clearance between both sides of the door frame before taking measurements, as this can also affect the size of the door you need.
Once all measurements have been taken, be sure to double-check your numbers prior to purchasing a replacement door to ensure that your new door will fit in the space and provide the desired seal.
If you are unsure, it is always best to consult with a qualified contractor who can provide professional advice and help guide you in selecting the right size door for your home.
10 Methods on How to Measure Front Door for Replacement
1. Measuring the Width of Your Door.
The first step is to measure the width of your door. You will need a tape measure for this. Measure from the top of the door frame to the bottom. Write down this measurement. If your door is an odd number, round up to the nearest whole number.
Once you have the width, subtract 3/4 inch from it. This is your ideal door size. Make sure to take into account any trim or molding on the door frame when measuring.
2. Measuring the Height of Your Door.
The next step is to measure the height of your door. Again, use a tape measure. Measure from the left side of the door frame to the right side. Write down this measurement as well. While you’re at it, measure the width of your door as well.
This is important to make sure that the replacement door will fit into the existing door frame. Though it’s not necessary, you may also want to take precise measurements of the door jamb as well. This will give you a good idea of how much space is needed for the new door.
3. Measuring the Thickness of Your Door.
Now, you will need to measure the thickness of your door. This is important because it will determine what type of replacement door you will need. Use a tape measure or a ruler to measure from the front of the door to the back. Write down this measurement as well.
Keep in mind that the thickness of your door should be consistent throughout, so make sure to measure at multiple points. Additionally, consider the thickness of your doorframe, as this will also determine what type of replacement door you need. Once you have all these measurements written down, you can go ahead and start shopping for a replacement door.
4. Measuring the Clearance of Your Door.
The next step is to measure the clearance of your door. This is important because you will need to know how much space you have to work with when replacing your door. Measure from the top of the door frame to the ground. Write down this measurement as well. If the door is not level, then you will need to measure each side separately.
Although the doorway is not typically perfectly level, it should be close. Try to keep the measurements as accurate as possible. Make sure to also measure the width of the door frame, as well as how thick your current door is. This way, you will be sure to purchase a door that will fit safely and securely in the frame.
5. Measure the Space between Your Door and Your Wall.
Another important measurement is the space between your door and your wall. This is important because you will need to know if you have enough space to install a new door without damaging your wall.
Measure from the edge of your door frame to the nearest wall on either side. Write down these measurements as well. Though it may be easier to measure this when the door is open, you can also do so with it closed.
6. Measuring the Hinge Placement on Your Door.
The next step is to measure the hinge placement on your door. This will help you determine what type of hinges you need for a replacement door. Measure from the bottom edge of the frame to where the hinge is located. Write down these measurements as well. If you have more than one hinge, measure the others in a similar way and make a note of these measurements too.
It is also important to determine if your door has an adjustable or non-adjustable hinge. You should be able to tell this by looking at the existing screws that hold the hinges in place. Adjustable hinges have screws that are adjustable and a slot for them to fit in, while non-adjustable ones do not.
7. Measuring the Latch and Doorknob Placement on Your Door.
You will also need to measure the latch and doorknob placement on your door since they must be in their exact positions when you install a new one. Measure from the outside of your door frame to where each item is located, and write down these measurements as well.
Once all of these measurements are taken, you will be ready to purchase the new door. If you choose to have a professional install the door for you, they will need these measurements as well.
8. Measuring Any Additional Features on Your Door.
You should also measure any other features that may exist on the door, such as a mail slot or kick plate. Measure from the outside of your door frame to where each item is located and write down these measurements too. The more detailed measurements you have, the easier it will be to find the perfect replacement door.
While you are measuring, be sure to note any special features of the door that could impact your purchase decision. This includes things like the type of hinges and hardware you have, as well as the width of the door jamb.
9. Measuring if You Need to Cut Out an Opening in the Wall.
If your door is not a standard size, you may need to cut out an opening in the wall for it. Measure from the edge of your door frame to the nearest wall on either side, and write down these measurements as well. If the measurements do not match the door frame measurements, you will need to cut out a larger opening in the wall.
Use a level and measuring tape to measure the height and width of the opening. Mark these measurements on the wall using a pencil. Cut out the opening using a reciprocating saw or a jigsaw. Ensure that the edges of the opening are even and straight before installing the new door.
10. Measure if There Are Any Obstructions at the Top or Sides of Your Door Frame.
The last step is to measure if there are any obstructions at the top or sides of your door frame. This will help you determine what type of door you can install and whether or not you need to make modifications to the existing wall. Measure from the edge of your door frame to the nearest obstruction on either side, and write down these measurements as well.
These ten measurements will help you properly measure your front door for replacement. Be sure to write down all the numbers for easy reference when shopping for a new door. With the right measurements in hand, you’ll be sure to find the perfect replacement door for your home.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to measure front door for replacement, you can order the perfect-sized door for your home. Plus, you’ll save money by not ordering a door that’s too big or small.
Be sure to take into account the style of your home when choosing a new front door, as well as any special features like decorative glass panels. With a little bit of planning, you can have a brand-new front door installed in no time!
You Can Check It Out to Cut Groove in Bottom of Barn Door
