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Obtaining the Right French Door Measurements

Installing French doors can transform the look and feel of a home by letting in ample natural light and creating an inviting indoor/outdoor living space. But getting accurate measurements is crucial for ensuring proper fit and flawless functionality of these elegant yet temperamental portals.

Below we'll walk through the key steps for successfully measuring to size and install French doors. Knowing the right techniques and considerations upfront will ensure your new doors fit perfectly within their opening the first time.

how to measure for french doors

Determine the Ideal Location for New French Doors

Before pulling out the tape measure, decide on the optimal spot for installing your new French doors. Key factors to consider include:

Also account for door swing radius based on hinge placement so they don't collide with walls, windows, or furniture when opened fully. Don't forget to visualize both interior and exterior aesthetics to ensure the new doors complement their surroundings.

Precisely Measure the New Door Opening

Once you've settled on the perfect spot, it's time to quantify the exact opening size. This critical measurement will determine the appropriately sized doors to order later on. Be sure to:

For the greatest accuracy, measure to 1/16th of an inch since doors come in 2 inch increments. Take multiple width and height measurements to factor in any imperfections like unlevel floors or slight tapering in the opening.

Account for Obstacles Like Trim and Uneven Walls

While measuring, note any existing architectural elements or surface irregularities that could impact installation. These include:

Make sure to measure from the actual door opening surface rather than existing trim edges. This gives the true "rough opening" size that doors must fit within. Properly accounting for uneven surfaces and decorative trim ensures you order the right French door size later on.

Understand French Door Sizing Standards

French doors come in a range of standard widths and heights dictated by common manufacturing increments and traditional style guidelines:

Standard Widths Per Door

Since French doors come in pairs, common combined sizes are:

Standard Heights Available

Note that heights refer to the actual doors themselves, not the vertical rough opening space they'll occupy. More on optimal clearance in a moment.

Custom Size Options

Many manufacturers offer made-to-order French doors in custom widths and heights. This specially crafted route costs more but enables sizes like 33-inch or 74-inch doors for uniquely sized homes and openings.

Recommended Clearances

When sizing rough openings, best practice is allowing some extra vertical and horizontal space for shimming, adjustments, and weatherproofing. Recommended clearances are:

This extra "wiggle room" makes for easier installation and protects against seasonal expansion/contraction and natural building "settling" over time.

Order the Precisely Sized Doors

With accurate opening measurements and door clearance guidelines in hand, you're ready to purchase correctly sized French doors. When placing the order, you'll specify:

Reputable retailers like Lowe's provide sizing guides and design visualizers to streamline the purchase process. Still, don't hesitate to call if you need advice choosing the best doors for your unique space.

Order the Correct Handle Hardware

Don't forget door handles and locksets! Measure existing knobs for backset size (midline screw hole distance from door edge). Cross or centered knob placement is also essential for proper French door aesthetics and functionality:

There are also different handle styles like modern lever or classic crystal knob options to suit your home.

Prepare the Installation Area

While waiting for the new doors to arrive, take time to prep the installation zone for a smooth fitting process:

Preparing a clean, square, properly trimmed/shimmed opening makes fitting and adjusting new doors much easier. It also contributes to smooth long-term operation and weather sealing.

Check Local Regulations for Fire Code Compliance

Since French doors often serve as secondary egress points alongside primary entry doors, local fire and building codes dictate specific requirements. Common specs include:

Research rules early so these elements can be incorporated into your French door design upfront if mandated in your area.

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