How to Measure For a Front Entry Doorjamb

Doorjambs are the wood casing that surrounds the exterior door. One side of the jamb is the hinge jamb and the opposite side is the latch jamb. You will need to take accurate measurements in order to properly install a jamb for the exterior door. Failing to take accurate measurements can result in too much space left around the door itself, allowing hot or cold air to move freely into your home. Exterior doors can also have slightly different widths, resulting in an improper fit with the doorjamb.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Measure the length and width of the doorjamb with a tape measure. Take measurements on both sides of the doorjamb and at the top and bottom of the door.

   • 2

     Check the door opening to ensure it is square. Measure from the bottom left corner to the top right corner. Complete the measurement for the opposite corners. Compare the measurements to ensure they are the same.

   • 3

     Measure the depth of the door opening. Include the drywall and 2-by-4 in this measurement to ensure that the exterior doorjamb will fit in the opening.