How to Calculate Door Widths

There is a little bit more to calculating the actual width of a doorway for a new door than might meet the eye. It may seem like a one and done measurement, but to get an accurate reading you will actually need to take several measurements at a few different locations.

Tape measure
Sand paper or chisel (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Inspect the door jamb, or door frame. Notice any areas that protrude farther than the rest; if there are such areas it would be a good idea to sand or chisel them down so it is uniform. This will allow you to get a wider door since your door’s width needs to be the same as the least wide area of the door jamb.
- 2
  Use a tape measure to measure the width of the top of the door jamb (up to 2 or 3 inches below the very top) and write down the measurement. Repeat this step at the center of the door jamb and the bottom.
- 3
  Keep the smallest measurement (e.g., 30 inches over 30-1/2 inches) and then measure the height of the door jamb, if you haven’t already. The smallest width reading and the height reading you just took are the specifications needed for your new door.

How to Repair Windows in a New York City Condo

How to Make a Screen Door Piston Slow Down at the Beginning of Closing

Window & Door Repair