Common Interior Door Sizes Complete Guide
When you’re planning a home renovation or new build, interior door sizes probably aren’t the first thing on your mind. But they’re one of those small details that can make a big difference in comfort, flow, and function. The wrong size can make a room feel cramped, limit accessibility, or make moving furniture a nightmare. The right size, on the other hand, blends seamlessly into the design while making your space practical. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about common interior door sizes so you can confidently choose the right fit for your home.
Common Interior Door Sizes
In most Canadian homes, the interior door sizes you’ll see are 80 inches tall and anywhere from 24 to 36 inches wide. This range covers everything from compact closet interior doors to wider passage interior doors designed for accessibility. Knowing these measurements gives you a baseline before you dive into details like style or finish.
Standard Door Heights
The standard interior door height for interiors is 80 inches, or 6 feet 8 inches. This has been the go-to for decades because it works well for the average door height most people expect.
The Typical 80-Inch Option
Eighty inches works for bedrooms, bathrooms, closets, and even utility spaces. It’s the safe bet if you want consistency throughout your home.
When to Choose Taller Interior Doors (84-96 Inches)
If you’re aiming for a dramatic, modern look, taller interior doors at 84 or 96 inches can create an open, spacious vibe. They’re also common in custom builds where higher ceilings demand interior doors that match the proportions.
Standard Door Widths
While height stays fairly consistent, the standard interior door width varies more.
Narrow Widths for Closets
Closet and pantry interior doors are often 24 to 28 inches wide. These compact sizes make sense for smaller openings where space is tight.
Wider Widths for Bedrooms and Living Areas
Bedrooms and living spaces typically use 30 or 32 inches. For added accessibility or simply a grander feel, 36 inches is a popular choice. This wider common door width works especially well in open floor plans.
Average Door Sizes in Most Homes
Across the board, the average interior door size for interior doors is 30 inches wide and 80 inches tall. This combination is practical because it balances easy movement with efficient use of wall space. It also matches most standard door dimensions, making it easy to replace or upgrade existing doors without custom fabrication.
Understanding Door Dimensions
When shopping for doors, you’ll come across terms like slab size, rough opening, and frame size. All of these relate to door dimensions, and they need to work together for proper installation. For example, the rough opening is usually about two inches wider and taller than the door itself to leave room for the frame and shims. Knowing this keeps your project on track and avoids surprises during installation.
Standard Door Measurements for Different Rooms
Not every room calls for the same standard door measurements. Each type of room benefits from slightly different sizes.
Bedroom Doors
The bedroom door is one of the most important. Most are 30 to 32 inches wide and 80 inches tall, giving you enough space to move furniture in and out without feeling oversized.
Bathroom Doors
Bathrooms typically use 28 to 32-inch-wide doors. If space is limited, you may even see 24-inch options, though these can feel snug.
Closet and Utility Doors
Closets and laundry rooms don’t need full-sized passage doors. Instead, 24- to 28-inch widths are common, saving space while still being functional.
Common Door Sizes for Accessibility
If you’re planning for long-term comfort or aging in place, wider doors are worth considering. A 36-inch width is the most recommended of the common door sizes because it allows easier access for wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers. It also makes moving large furniture far less stressful.
Interior Door Styles That Affect Size Choice
Choosing a door isn’t just about measurements. Interior door styles also play a role. French doors, sliding barn doors, and pocket doors can change the way space feels and functions. For example, a sliding door might work better in a tight hallway where a swing door would be awkward. On the other hand, panelled doors add classic charm and can visually anchor a bedroom.
Height of Standard Doorways vs. Custom Openings
The height of standard doorway openings usually matches the 80-inch standard, but the framed opening is built slightly taller to allow for easy fitting. Custom homes may have openings designed for taller doors at 84 or 96 inches. These choices depend on ceiling height and overall design goals.
How to Choose the Right Door Size for Your Project
Picking the right size isn’t just about what’s most common. Here’s how to make the smartest choice:
Measure the opening carefully, including the rough frame.
Consider how furniture will move through the doorway.
Think about the long-term: will wider doors help with accessibility down the line?
Match the style to the room so the door feels intentional.
Taking these steps ensures you’re not just defaulting to standard door sizes, but actually picking what works best for your family and lifestyle.
Final Words on Interior Door Sizing
Interior doors might seem simple, but they’re a key detail that shapes how your home feels and functions. Whether you stick with the standard door measurements or opt for taller, wider, or more stylish options, the right decision adds long-term comfort and value. For homeowners looking to blend function with design, working with an Edmonton interior designer can help you navigate the choices with ease.
FAQs About Interior Door Sizes
What is the average door width?
The average door width is typically 30 inches, though 28 and 32 inches are also common, depending on the room.
Are all door sizes standard?
No, while there are standard door sizes, older homes and custom builds may have non-standard measurements that require special ordering.
What’s the difference between average door size and standard door dimensions?
The average door size refers to the most common measurement (30 inches by 80 inches), while standard door dimensions cover the accepted range of widths (24 to 36 inches) and heights (80 to 96 inches).
Can I replace a door without changing the frame?
Often, yes, as long as the new door matches the existing standard door measurements. If not, you may need to adjust the frame.
Do interior door styles change the size needed?
Yes. Sliding and pocket doors may need different openings compared to traditional swing doors. The chosen interior door styles can influence your final measurements.