A standard door in most homes ranges between 30 and 36 inches wide. Interior doors, like those for bedrooms and bathrooms, are typically 30″ or 32″, while exterior entry doors are usually 36″ wide to allow easier access and improve security. Whether you’re replacing a door, remodeling, or building new, knowing these standard dimensions is essential for proper fit, accessibility, and compliance with building codes especially in areas like Spokane, WA, where local standards may apply.
How Wide Is a Door? Understanding the Basics of Door Sizing
When you walk through a door every day, you probably don’t stop to think about how wide it is. But if you’re planning a home renovation, building a new house, or simply replacing an old door, understanding door width becomes incredibly important. It affects not just design and style, but also accessibility, functionality, and even safety.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about door width from standard interior sizes to regional building norms in Spokane, WA. Whether you’re installing new doors or planning for furniture clearance, we’ve got your questions covered.
Why Knowing Standard Door Sizes Matters for Homeowners
Knowing the dimensions of your doors may seem like a small detail, but it’s a crucial part of home improvement. Here’s why:
- Furniture and appliance clearance:
- Narrow doorways make it difficult to move large furniture or appliances.
- Accessibility needs:
- Wider doors are essential for wheelchair access and meet ADA requirements.
- Aesthetic consistency:
- Matching door widths can make your home feel more polished.
- Planning renovations:
- If you’re updating your doors or remodeling, knowing the standard door size prevents surprises.
This is why builders, contractors, and interior designers all pay close attention to door measurements.
Common Door Widths You’ll Find in Most Homes
Let’s start with the numbers. The standard door width in most American homes is typically 30 to 36 inches. But depending on the room or purpose, you might encounter a few variations:
- 30 inches: Common for bedrooms and other interior doors
- 32 inches: Often used for bathrooms or smaller spaces
- 36 inches: Standard for entry doors and ADA-compliant interiors
When we talk about door width, we’re referring to the actual slab of the door, not including the frame or trim.
What Is the Width of a Standard Interior Door?
The width of a standard interior door is usually 30 or 32 inches, though some homes may have 28-inch doors, especially in closets or pantries. These dimensions are based on long-standing building codes and are designed to balance functionality with space conservation.
For homes being built in 2025, many local codes, including those in Spokane, are beginning to favor 32-inch-wide doors to better accommodate aging-in-place and universal design needs.
Comparing Standard Interior Door Width vs. Exterior Door Width
Interior and exterior doors serve different purposes, which is why their sizes often differ. Here’s how they compare:
| Type of Door | Standard Width |
| Bedroom/Bathroom Door | 30″–32″ |
| Closet Door | 24″–28″ |
| Exterior Entry Door | 36″ |
| French Doors | 60″ (pair of 30″) |
Exterior doors tend to be wider to accommodate emergency exits, deliveries, and better insulation against the weather. Entry doors also often come with sidelights or decorative elements, making the overall unit even wider.
How Wide Is a Standard Door Frame, and Why Does It Matter
A standard door frame adds additional width to the door. Most standard door frames are built for doors that are 1 3/8 inches thick, and the frame width (rough opening) is typically 2 to 2.5 inches wider than the door itself.
For example:
- A 30″ door typically requires a 32″ frame opening.
- A 36″ door may require a 38″ rough opening.
This is essential information when you’re replacing or framing a door. Not accounting for the frame can lead to installation errors and misalignment.
Variations in Door Sizes: Not All Doorways Are Created Equal
While there are standard sizes, not all homes follow the same rules. Here are common door width variations:
- Closets: 24–28 inches
- Utility rooms: 28–30 inches
- Historic homes: May feature narrower doors under 28 inches
- Luxury homes often feature wider or taller doors for visual impact
Custom or non-standard door widths might require special ordering and could increase installation costs. If you’re working on a remodel, double-check measurements before purchasing.
Understanding Door Width in Inches and Feet for Easy Measuring
For most homeowners, inches are the go-to unit. But in construction, feet and inches are often used. Here’s a quick reference:
- 24 inches = 2 feet
- 30 inches = 2 feet 6 inches
- 36 inches = 3 feet
Tip: Always measure from inside edge to inside edge of the door slab, not the frame. Use a metal tape for accuracy.
Common door sizes you might see on packaging:
- 2/6 (30 inches)
- 2/8 (32 inches)
- 3/0 (36 inches)
Interior Door Width Standards in Spokane, WA Homes
In Spokane, WA, many older homes feature 28–30-inch wide doors, especially in homes built before 1980. However, newer constructions in the area now favor 32 to 36 inches, especially in hallways, master bedrooms, and entryways.
This trend is driven by a shift toward universal design, making spaces accessible to all ages and abilities. Additionally, Spokane’s adoption of newer International Residential Codes (IRC) has influenced this change.
If you’re building or remodeling in Spokane, it’s smart to opt for at least 32-inch doorways throughout the home. This future-proofs your space and improves resale appeal.
How to Measure a Door’s Width the Right Way
Before replacing or buying a door, you’ll want precise measurements. Here’s how:
- Remove any trim around the existing door.
- Measure the slab width: edge to edge across the door.
- Measure the frame opening (rough opening): from stud to stud.
- Measure the height: standard is 80 inches (6 feet 8 inches).
- Check door thickness: most are 1 3/8″ interior, 1 3/4″ exterior.
Pro tip: Measure in three spots, top, middle, and bottom,m to ensure consistency. If numbers vary, use the largest measurement.
Choosing the Right Door Width with Help from Five Window Install Spokane
At Five Window Install Spokane, we know doors as well as we know windows. Our team helps homeowners choose the perfect door width for their space, balancing function, design, and budget.
We also specialize in:
- Custom door sizing
- Retrofitting non-standard openings
- Installation services for interior and exterior doors
With Spokane’s varied architecture, from vintage craftsman homes to modern builds, we tailor every installation to your unique needs. We offer free consultations and professional measurements to ensure a perfect fit every time.
Conclusion:
So, how wide is a door? The answer depends on its function and your home’s layout. While most interior doors range from 30 to 32 inches, and exterior doors average 36 inches, knowing your exact measurements is key to a smooth renovation.
Ready to upgrade your home’s doors? Contact us today for a personalized quote and expert advice that fits your Spokane lifestyle.
