Standard UK Door Sizes: What You Need to Know Before Buying

Jaeson Ibarra
Standard UK Door Sizes: What You Need to Know Before Buying

Standard door sizes in the UK must be well understood in order to choose the best door for your house or project. Aesthetics, practicality, and building code compliance all depend on choosing the right size for doors, whether you're repairing an interior door, updating an exterior entry, or installing doors for a new construction. Everything you need to know about typical UK door sizes, measurement advice, and things to think about before buying is included in this extensive reference.

1. Understanding Standard UK Internal Door Sizes

Internal doors are available in a range of sizes to accommodate different types of properties and room configurations. In the UK, the following standard sizes are most frequently used:

a. Common Internal Door Dimensions

  • 1981mm x 457mm (6’6” x 1’6”) – Typically used for cupboards or narrow spaces.

  • 1981mm x 610mm (6’6” x 2’0”) – A narrow internal door, often found in older homes.

  • 1981mm x 686mm (6’6” x 2’3”) – Suitable for small rooms or tight spaces.

  • 1981mm x 762mm (6’6” x 2’6”) – The most commonly used internal door size in UK homes.

  • 1981mm x 838mm (6’6” x 2’9”) – A wider option, often chosen for improved accessibility.

Larger internal door options include:

  • 2040mm x 726mm – Frequently found in modern homes.

  • 2040mm x 826mm – A slightly wider alternative for open spaces.

  • 2040mm x 926mm – A contemporary choice for spacious interiors.

b. Fire Door Considerations

Fire doors (rated FD30 and FD60) often have the same dimensions as other doors, but they are thicker—about 44 mm—to meet fire safety standards.

2. Standard UK External Door Sizes

External doors serve both functional and security purposes, making it essential to get the right size.

a. Common External Door Dimensions

  • 1981mm x 762mm (6’6” x 2’6”) – A widely used front and back door size.

  • 1981mm x 838mm (6’6” x 2’9”) – Offers more accessibility and is common in newer homes.

  • 2032mm x 813mm (6’8” x 2’8”) – Found in modern properties.

  • 2040mm x 826mm – A frequently chosen size for contemporary builds.

  • 2100mm x 900mm – A grand entrance door for premium aesthetics.

Although bifold, patio, and French doors come in different sizes, they always follow modular standards for simpler installation.

3. Measuring for a New Door

Before purchasing a door, precise measurements are crucial. Follow these steps to ensure accuracy:

a. Measure the Door Opening (Aperture Size)

  • Measure the width at three points: top, middle, and bottom.

  • Measure the height from the floor to the top of the frame.

  • Consider door thickness, especially for replacements.

b. Adjustments for Frames

  • Existing frames may need modifications or new linings to fit standard sizes.

  • Some doors can be trimmed slightly, but excessive cutting may weaken the structure.

4. Custom and Bespoke Door Sizes

If standard sizes don’t fit, custom-made doors can be tailored to specific measurements. These are ideal for:

  • Older homes with unique doorways.

  • Luxury and contemporary designs.

  • Restorations requiring historically accurate doors.

5. Door Thickness and Why It Matters

Standard thickness options include:

  • 35mm – Common for internal doors.

  • 40mm – 44mm – Typical for external and fire doors.

  • 54mm – Used in high-security and specialist fire doors.

6. Considerations for Door Frames and Linings

Choosing the right frame or lining is essential for a secure fit. Consider:

  • Door lining thickness – Standard options are 108mm, 131mm, or 150mm.

  • Material choices – Timber, MDF, or composite frames.

  • Fire-rated linings – Required for fire doors in certain locations.

7. Accessibility and UK Building Regulations

The UK’s Building Regulations, particularly Part M, outline accessibility requirements:

  • A minimum clear opening width of 775mm is required for wheelchair access.

  • 838mm (2’9”) doors are recommended for enhanced accessibility.

8. Final Buying Tips

  1. Double-check measurements before ordering.
  2. Choose wider doors for better accessibility and future-proofing.
  3. Ensure compliance with fire safety and insulation regulations.
  4. Check supplier policies on trimming and returns.

Conclusion

A hassle-free purchasing experience is ensured by being aware of conventional door measurements in the UK. You may discover the ideal fit whether you're choosing an exterior or interior door by taking precise measurements and taking thickness, materials, and regulations into account. For places that are not typical, custom solutions provide flexibility. You can make sure your door selection improves your home's usefulness and aesthetics by bearing these important considerations in mind.

For more information about our interior or exterior doors or door accessories, give us a call at 01603 622261 and speak to a member of our expert team today or Email us at sales@doorsuppliesonline.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.