Architectural Details Direct - 903-356-2158

NOTE - We build your Doors to the exact measurements you give us.
For example, if you provide 35-1/4" wide and 81-1/8" tall measurements, we will build your Door 35-1/4" x 81-1/8". However, as described below, you will typically want to reduce the actual opening's measurements by 1/4" in width and 1/4" in height to allow proper clearance within the opening. It would be a good idea to discuss this clearance issue with your carpenter. Be sure he knows your Door will not be pre-hung.

Finished Openings (jambs already there) - Using a framing square, determine if your opening is a true rectangle (square in all 4 corners). Also, using a 4 foot level, determine if your floor is level and flat in the area in which the Door will swing. If your opening is square and your floor level and even, jump to Steel Tape, Please below.

If your finished opening is out of square by more than just a little, consider adjusting the dimensions you provide us. Since our Doors are solid wood, you can trim one or more edges at an angle (taper) to ensure your Door will be covered by the top and side stops. (For doors with our standard frame, we don't recommend trimming more than 1/2" off each side or the top, nor more than 3/4" off the bottom.)

If your floor is not reasonably level and flat, you will want to determine how much clearance you need under your closed Door to allow it to swing open without catching on the floor. If needed, adjust the height dimension you provide to us.

Rough Openings (jambs not yet installed) - If you presently have only a rough (unfinished) opening and it is out of square, you can use shims (available at your lumber yard) to install square jambs. Ask your carpenter what your opening's finished dimensions will be. Be sure he knows you will be ordering a Door based on those dimensions and that the door is NOT pre-hung.

Steel Tape, Please! Using a steel tape, please measure the actual finished opening at the point where the Door will be installed. Do NOT take into account the door stop moulding, but instead measure just in front of the stops, that is, where your Door will fit when closed.

As a double check on your opening's trueness, measure the opening width at top, middle and bottom. Measure the height at each side. Reduce your largest measurements for both width and for height by 1/4". This will allow adequate clearance within the finished opening.

And, as always, don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions!

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Architectural Details Direct - 903-356-2158

Measuring Your Door Openings

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