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How to measure door size for replacement

Person measuring the base of a door cavity.

Overview

Replacing your front door can give your home a whole new look, but it’s important to know how to get the right size door. This easy-to-follow guide will make sure you get the perfect fitting door every time.

Tools and materials

Tools

    Steps

    1Draw the door

    So that you're not relying on your memory when you go to the hardware store, make a rough drawing of it, from the outside or exterior view. Mark on the sketch where the hinges and door knob are this will tell you which way it hangs. Label whether it's a left- or right-handed door; if the hinges are on the right, it's a right-handed door. Also write down whether it's an in-swing or out-swing door. Most exterior doors are in-swing doors, meaning they open to the interior of the home.

    Person drawing up measurements in a notebook.

    2Take the measurements

    Now it's time to measure the width, height and depth of the door jamb which is the wooden frame that surrounds the door. Don't measure the door because it may have been fitted poorly in the first place and may not be a true reflection of the size of the jamb. Once you've got your drawing and measurements, you're ready to go and choose your new front door. 

    Person measuring the base of a door cavity.

    Suggested products

    Health & Safety

    Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

    Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer. You can also use a simple test kit from Bunnings to indicate the presence of lead-based paint.