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What Is Standard Door Height?

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You usually see the standard door height in the United States as 80 inches, or 6 feet 8 inches. Some new homes have exterior doors that are up to 96 inches tall. Look at the table below for a quick guide:

Door Type

Standard Height

Notes

Interior and Exterior

80 inches

This is the most common size for homes

Exterior (new homes)

96 inches

Used sometimes for taller entry doors

Commercial and custom doors can be different sizes. Knowing the standard door height helps you not make mistakes when picking steel doors, fire doors, or other types. This information saves time and money because your doors will fit right the first time.


Most standard doors in the U.S. are 80 inches tall. This matches building codes and helps make installation simple. - Exterior doors can be taller, up to 96 inches. This is common in new or custom homes for a grand look. - You should use a tape measure and level to measure doors. This helps you avoid fitting problems and extra costs. - Standard door sizes save time and money. They fit most homes and follow safety and accessibility rules. - It is important to know the difference between nominal and actual door sizes. This helps you choose the right door for your space.


Standard Door Height

Standard Door Height

Interior Door Height

In the United States, most interior doors are 80 inches tall. This is the usual size for new homes. It matches what building codes ask for. The International Residential Code and International Building Code both say doors must be at least 80 inches high. The Americans with Disabilities Act also uses this minimum for accessible doors. These rules help keep homes safe and easy to use.

Tip: Always check your local building codes before you start. Some places have special rules for interior door sizes.


Some older homes have different door heights. For example:

  • Old New England homes often have 78-inch doors.

  • Victorian houses may use doors from 78 to 82 inches.

  • Adobe homes in the Southwest can have doors about 76 to 78 inches.


These differences come from local building styles and when the house was built. If you want to keep a historic home’s look, you might need a non-standard door size. But most new homes use the standard size. This makes it easier to install doors and follow the rules.


Picking a standard interior door size gives you more choices. Hele Doors has many interior and exterior doors. They offer steel door and fire door options for all kinds of homes. You can find standard interior door sizes in many finishes and materials. This helps you match your style and budget.


Exterior Door Height

The standard exterior door height in the U.S. is also 80 inches. This size fits most ceilings and is easy to find. The International Residential Code says exterior doors must be at least 80 inches tall. This rule helps everyone enter and exit safely.


Some new or custom homes have taller exterior doors. For example, some entry doors are 96 inches tall for a grand look. Older homes in the South sometimes have 84-inch doors. Still, the 80-inch standard is the most common and is required by code for most projects.

Building Type

Standard Exterior Door Height

Variations and Notes

Residential

80 inches

Older homes: 84 inches; Newer homes: 96 inches or more

Commercial

80 inches

Must meet ADA and IBC codes; widths vary for accessibility

Choosing standard exterior door sizes saves time and money. Standard sizes are easier to install and cost less than custom doors. Hele Doors has many standard exterior door sizes and custom options for special needs. You can pick steel doors, fire doors, and other strong materials.

Note: Custom doors with non-standard heights cost more and take longer to make. Standard sizes help you avoid delays and extra costs.

Picking the right standard height for your doors helps your project meet code, look good, and last a long time.


Standard Door Sizes

Standard Door Dimensions

In the United States, door sizes usually follow set patterns. Most interior doors are 80 inches tall. This matches what building codes ask for. Some homes use taller doors, like 84 or 96 inches. These are common in rooms with high ceilings. Interior door widths are usually between 28 and 36 inches. Here are some common sizes you might see:

  • 18 inches: Used for small closets.

  • 24 inches: Good for pantries or utility rooms.

  • 28 inches: Found in older homes for bedrooms or bathrooms.

  • 30 inches: Standard for most bedrooms and bathrooms.

  • 32 inches: Ideal for larger bathrooms or guest rooms.

  • 36 inches: Used for main living areas or for wheelchair access.


Most interior doors are 1 3/8 inches thick. If a door is taller than 80 inches or wider than 36 inches, it is often 1 3/4 inches thick. These standard sizes help you pick the right door for your home. They also make putting in the door easier.


Commercial doors have different needs. These doors are often at least 36 inches wide. This helps meet safety and accessibility rules. The height is usually 80 inches or more. Commercial doors use stronger hardware and must follow strict codes.


Hele Doors has many standard door sizes for homes and businesses. You can get steel doors, fire doors, and other types to fit your needs. If your space is special, Hele Doors can make custom doors for you.


Standard Size for Exterior Doors

Exterior doors in the U.S. also have standard sizes. Most are 80 inches tall. Some new homes use 96-inch doors for a bold look. The usual width for exterior doors is 36 inches. This makes it easy to move furniture and meets accessibility needs. Here is a quick guide:

Door Type

Typical Heights (inches)

Typical Widths (inches)

Single Exterior Door

80, 96

36 (standard), 30, 32, 34

Double Exterior Door

80

60, 68, 72

Older homes may have doors that are 30 or 32 inches wide. Newer homes often use bigger doors for style and function. Pre-hung doors come with a frame. This adds about 1.5 inches to the height and width.


If you need a special size, Hele Doors can help. They offer both standard and custom exterior doors for homes, schools, hospitals, and factories. You can pick from many materials and finishes for your project.

Note: Picking standard door sizes saves time and money. Custom doors work for special spaces, but standard sizes are easier to put in and replace.


Measuring Door Height

Measuring Door Height

Tools Needed

You need the right tools to get an accurate measurement for your door. Professionals recommend these items:

  1. Tape measure: This is the most important tool for measuring door height.

  2. Pencil: Use this to mark your measurements.

  3. Paper: Write down each measurement so you do not forget.

  4. Level: This helps you check if the door frame is straight.

  5. Optional: A helper can make the process easier, especially for tall doors.

Using the correct tools helps you avoid mistakes. If you use a tape measure and a level, you can find the actual door height and prevent problems during installation. Many homeowners make errors by using the wrong tools or skipping steps. This can lead to gaps or doors that do not fit well.

Tip: Always double-check your tools before you start. A worn-out tape measure or a missing pencil can slow you down.


How to Measure

Knowing how to measure your door properly ensures a perfect fit for your new steel door or fire door. Follow these steps to get the actual door height:

  1. Place the tape measure at the bottom of the door frame.

  2. Stretch the tape measure up to the top of the frame.

  3. Measure the height at three points: left side, center, and right side.

  4. Write down all three measurements.

  5. Use the smallest number as your actual door height.


If you measure the rough opening, start from the subfloor to the top of the opening on both sides. Record the smallest height. This method helps you avoid common mistakes, such as ignoring trim or not checking for a level frame. Always check for any obstructions like molding or weatherstripping.

Hele Doors offers a wide range of products, so getting the right measurement helps you choose the best fit. Accurate measurements make installation easier and help your door last longer.


Choosing Door Size

Nominal vs. Actual Size

When you shop for a new door, you will see two types of measurements: nominal and actual. The nominal door height is the rounded number used to group doors into standard sizes. For example, a door labeled as 80 inches tall may actually measure a bit less. The actual size is the true measurement of the door slab, which you can check with a tape measure. Manufacturers use nominal door height to make it easier for you to order and match frames.


You need to know this difference because it affects how your door fits. If you buy a door with a nominal door height of 80 inches, the actual door slab will be about 79 1/8 to 79 3/8 inches tall. This smaller size allows the door to swing freely and fit inside the frame. The rough opening in your wall should be about 2 inches wider and 2½ inches taller than the actual door slab. This extra space gives room for the frame, shims, and hardware. If you do not allow for this, your door may stick or not close right.


Door frames and product labels use the nominal door size, not the actual measurement. For example, a steel door or fire door labeled as 36" x 80" will have a slab that is slightly smaller. This system helps you order the right size for your project. Hele Doors lists both nominal and actual sizes in their product details, so you can choose with confidence.


ADA Compliance

If you want your door to be accessible, you must follow ADA guidelines. The Americans with Disabilities Act says that door openings must have a clear height of at least 80 inches. This rule helps people in wheelchairs or with mobility aids move through doors safely. Most standard doors already meet this height, but you should always check before you buy.

ADA rules focus more on width and ease of use than on height for residential doors. Here are some key points:

  • The clear width must be at least 32 inches when the door is open 90 degrees.

  • The door should not require more than 5 pounds of force to open.

  • Handles must be easy to use with one hand and should not need tight grasping or twisting.

Door Type

Typical Height Range (inches)

Notes

Standard Residential

78, 80, 84

Most common height is 80 inches (6'8")

Commercial (ADA)

84 to 96

Often taller to meet accessibility standards

Hele Doors offers many ADA-compliant options, including hospital doors and school doors. You can find doors that meet both style and accessibility needs. Always measure your space and check ADA requirements before you order.


Choosing the right door starts with knowing the common heights and widths. Here is a quick reference:

Door Type

Standard Heights (inches)

Standard Widths (inches)

Door Slab

80, 96

32, 36, 42

Pre-Hung Door

81.5, 97.5

33.5, 37.5, 43.5

Pre-hung doors include the frame, adding about 1.5 inches to each side.

Accurate measurement ensures a perfect fit, smooth installation, and fewer costly mistakes. You can choose from standard or custom doors to match your needs. Hele Doors offers a wide range of steel doors, fire doors, and villa doors for homes, schools, and commercial spaces.


FAQ

What is the standard size for sliding glass doors?

You usually find the standard size for sliding glass doors is 80 inches tall and 60 to 72 inches wide. These sizes fit most homes. Hele Doors offers custom options if you need a different size for your project.


How do I choose between a wooden door and a steel door?

You should consider your needs. Wooden doors give a classic look and work well indoors. Steel doors offer more security and last longer. Hele Doors provides both types for homes and businesses.


What is the standard size for french doors?

The standard size for french doors is often 80 inches tall and 60 inches wide for a pair. You can find other sizes if your space is unique. Hele Doors can help you select the right fit.


Can I get a fire door in a custom size?

Yes, you can order a fire door in a custom size. Hele Doors manufactures fire doors for many settings, including schools and hospitals. Custom sizing helps you meet safety codes and design needs.


How do I know if my door meets ADA requirements?

You should check the clear opening width and height. Most standard doors from Hele Doors meet ADA rules. For special needs, ask about ADA-compliant options to ensure easy access for everyone.

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