When considering the best front door, you have to take size into account. This can make or break the whole look and feel of your entryway. Homes usually have strict restrictions on how small or large a front door may be, as it can compromise structural integrity. This is why it’s important to partner with a professional door installer in Dallas to make sure you’re choosing the right size.

Measurements

While your door installation professional will take measurements of the area during the initial consultation, you can take some rudimentary measurements beforehand to give yourself a good idea of the current door size. Then at least you can get the ball rolling when browsing online for front door styles that suit your fancy.

Measuring your front entry door is easy. Just be sure to only measure the door – not the trim or door jamb. Place a tape measure flat on the door, across the width, to get the first measurement. Most front doors are about 36 inches wide.

For the height, put the tape measure in the door’s middle at the bottom, taking note of the number at the top. Most front doors are about 80 inches tall.

Choosing the Right Door: Existing Home

With an older home, you’re limited to the size of the opening when installing a new front door, but you may have a little leeway. In actuality, many homes are able to accommodate a larger size door than the original one; however, the extra space is often used up by sidelights, windows and walls.

If you have your heart set on widening the front door entryway, you can, but it will come at a higher cost.

Choosing the Right Door: New Home

With new construction homes that you build from the ground up, you have a lot more flexibility when it comes to the front door you install. These days, bigger is better, especially if you have a large home or family. You can opt for a double door for visual interest or even an eight-foot-tall door for extra emphasis.

The sky’s the limit when you’re building from scratch!

Considerations

Just like with all home remodeling projects, front entry door replacement isn’t cheap. But to get the most value for your purchase, do your homework before settling on a door or a provider. Here are some things to think about:

• Cost: You will pay the least for a door replacement when you use one that utilizes the existing space. You will pay more if you opt to widen the entryway and add a larger door.
• Time: The project will take longer if your home was structurally built to accommodate an 80-inch door yet you want a 96-inch door. If you want your new door installed as quickly as possible, go with the same size opening.
• Availability: If you only want one specific style of door, you may be crushed to learn it doesn’t come in your required size. To avoid disappointment, determine the size you need first, then start looking at styles and colors.

Contact Dallas Door Designs

Still not sure what size you need? No worries. Our team at Dallas Door Designs can take measurements on site and show you all the doors and styles we offer that fit within those parameters. Call us now at 214-973-0373 to learn more and to get a free quote.