Although most doors come in standard sizes, knowing how to measure them accurately is still very important. Understanding measurements, such as the width of an interior door, helps homeowners when replacing an existing door or installing a new one.
Considering the width of an interior door is also important because it impacts functionality more than aesthetics. Therefore, this guide outlines the standard width of interior doors to help you make an informed decision.
Why Are There Standard Door Sizes?
While constructing a house, door openings are usually made to fit standard sizes. This is one of the reasons why there is no need to customize doors unless it has a unique layout that does not follow standard dimensions.
A standard door width for opening ensures a hassle-free replacement process. It is cost-effective for both door manufacturers as well as for homeowners, because doors can be produced in bulk instead of being customized. A standard measurement will also help avoid unexpected costs during replacement.
Measuring Interior Door Width
Although unusual door sizes can make their own impact, at the end of the day, it comes down to accessibility. The standard interior door widths are often designed to meet the functional requirement rather than aesthetics.
Wider doorways also provide a sense of openness and convenience, which is especially helpful for larger families or when hosting parties.
For most homes, a standard width of 30 inches would be enough. In other words, it's two and a half feet wide, giving plenty of shoulder and elbow room. The next suitable size is 32 inches, though the difference is barely noticeable. However, this will be felt by guests or anyone passing through the door. It provides a bit more room and a sense of spaciousness.
Measuring Interior Door Width for Wheelchair Access
The standard door width provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is 36 inches, which in feet would be 3 feet. This allows wheelchairs to pass through the doorway without damaging the frame or trim. A wider doorway also makes it easier for people with disabilities to pass through it without any hassle.
If you're renovating your home to enhance wheelchair accessibility, it's important to check all the main doorways. Though your doors may be on the narrow side now, widening them during a remodel can greatly improve accessibility and ease of movement in your home.
Is there a Minimum Requirement for Interior Door Width?
The International Residential Code (IRC) has a minimum size requirement when it comes to exterior doors. These minimum requirements for exterior doors ensure that first responders with their heavy equipment can quickly get into the house during any emergency.
However, as for interior doors, there is no set of specific requirements. Several states opt out of the IRC, whereas others implement customized building codes. A few states have designed stricter building codes for interior door sizes.
In Michigan, for instance, interior doors must be at least 24 inches wide. This rule does not apply when the door leads into a room with less than 10 square feet of floor space, like a closet or small bathroom.
Before beginning a new build or renovation, it's important to check with your local building authorities to see if there are any restrictions on smaller doors in your area.
Tips to Measure Your Door Properly
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To measure the existing door height, measure from the top to the bottom of the door.
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To measure the width, measure from the left edge to the right edge of the door.
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Make sure to check the thickness. Most doors are 1 ¾ inches thick, and your measurement should be close to this size.
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Record the width of the jamb and the height and width of the frame.
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Do not include any decorative trim in your measurements.
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Calculate the rough-in measurement. Add 2 inches to the width and 2 inches to the height of your door size to get the doorway opening measurement.
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The rough-in measurement also depends on whether you are installing a pre-hung door. For instance, if you have a 36 x 80-inch door, it would be 38 x 82 inches when you add the 2 inches for your rough-in measurement.
Conclusion
Selecting the right interior door width means knowing standard sizes and the specific needs of the rooms. Accurate measurement and considering factors like accessibility and building codes can help you make the right choice. Lastly, make sure to carefully consider door widths during construction or renovation. This can help you avoid mistakes which may cost you heavily.
