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When choosing or replacing a Front Door, one of the most important measurements is the width. Width affects usability, curb appeal, safety, and compliance with building codes. This article explains what standard front door widths are in residential homes, what variations exist, how to measure properly, and how to pick a door that works well for your needs.
In the U.S., the most common or “standard” width for a single exterior (front) door is 36 inches.
Some of the common width ranges include:
| Door Type | Often Seen Widths |
|---|---|
| Single front doors | 30 in, 32 in, 34 in, 36 in |
| Wider single doors (for more clearance or architectural effect) | Up to 42 in or more |
| Double (or French) doors | Combined widths often start at about 60 in and go up from there, depending on panel widths and style |
Width isn’t the only key dimension—height and thickness matter too:
Height: A standard height is 80 inches (6 ft 8 in). Taller doors (84 in or 96 in) are used in modern designs or luxury homes.
Thickness: Exterior Doors are commonly about 1 ¾ inches thick.
A few reasons why 36 in is the standard:
Ease of passage: Moving furniture, appliances, or large items in and out is easier with a wider door.
Accessibility: Many code or design guidelines use 32-36 in as minimum widths to accommodate wheelchair access.
Manufacturing & stock: Because 36 in × 80 in is so commonly used, many doors and pre-hung frames are stocked in that size, making it easier and more affordable to get and replace.
Not all front doors are the same. Here are variations and what affects door width:
Older homes may have narrower doors or non-standard frames. So if you're replacing an existing door, always measure.
Custom or architectural styles may call for larger doors: extra tall (8 ft or more), wider (42+ in), or double doors.
Doors with sidelights or transoms add width or height beyond the slab dimension of just the door panel.
To ensure you get a door that fits well:
Measure existing door slab: The door itself (minus trim), from edge to edge, top, middle, and bottom.
Measure the door frame opening (rough opening): This includes the width of the frame plus allowance for fitting—often a couple of inches more than the slab. You'll want the smallest of the three width measurements in the frame.
Check thickness: The door plus frame must sit properly in the wall opening and align with floor, threshold, and weather-seals.
Check swing direction and space on the inside so the door won’t hit furniture or walls.
When selecting width, consider:
Function: Do you need extra clearance for moving large items?
Accessibility: If mobility is a concern, favor 36 in or wider.
Style: Wider or taller doors often give more of a “grand entrance” aesthetic.
Frame and hardware cost: Wider doors cost more to build, install, and require stronger frames and hinges.
If you're looking for entrance doors that combine style, durability, and variety, the ARTY front door series by Yihe Door is worth considering. Their collection includes modern single-leaf doors, Steel-Aluminum Doors, and doors with hidden handles or openable small doors, giving flexibility both in design and dimension.
ARTY doors offer appealing finishes (warm wood grain, antique copper effect, contrast textures, etc.) and are made to accommodate different widths. If you’re unsure which width is right, ARTY’s product range gives options from the standard 36 in to wider custom styles, helping you match both function and aesthetics.
A standard front door in the U.S. is usually 36 in wide × 80 in tall, and about 1 ¾ in thick.
Doors as narrow as 30-32 in, or as wide as 42 in+ are used depending on design, style, or need.
Accurate measurement is essential—measure both the door slab and the rough opening.
Consider your needs for accessibility, aesthetics, and practicality when choosing width.
ARTY from Yihe Door offers a strong selection of front doors across sizes and styles if you are exploring options.
