To get an accurate cost estimate and ensure that your new patio door fits perfectly, it’s of the essence to have exact measurements. So, if you’re not sure how to measure patio door size, keep reading because we’ve detailed everything below to make this process easy and stress-free!
Key Takeaways
- Accurate measurements for patio doors should be taken from the inside. You’ll have to measure the width and height at multiple points to account for inconsistencies, and use the smallest measurements.
- It is essential to double-check measurements and note the condition of the existing door frame, as damages can affect the installation process.
- If you’re not sure your measurements are correct, call an expert who can double-check them before ordering new patio doors.
Prepare to Measure Your Patio Doors
Here’s what you’ll need to measure your patio doors, regardless of whether they’re hinged or sliding glass doors:
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Paper
- Ladder (if your patio door is large and you can’t reach its top)
- Level
Tips on How to Get Accurate Measurements
We’ve also prepared some tips that will facilitate the measuring process and help you get accurate numbers:
- We recommend asking someone to help you, especially if your patio doors are large. A family member or a friend can help you by holding one end of the tape measure steady while you take the reading.
- Patio doors should be measured from the inside. But if you want to be on the safe side, you can also measure them from the outside.
- If you’re replacing an existing patio door, you should take the measurements before removing it.
- Sketch the door on a piece of paper before measuring it. Draw arrows for the opening direction and draw the position of the door handle.
- Double-check your measurements to prevent costly mistakes and ensure a smooth installation. Confirming your measurements saves the hassle of later adjustments.
- Check the existing door frame for damage, as this can affect the new door installation.
- Account for the door sill when measuring, as its height can impact the overall door fit.
- Include any additional fittings, such as frame extensions, in your measurements.
How to Measure a Hinged Patio Door?
Let’s start with hinged patio doors, which open outwards or inwards, being hinged on one side. They are also known as French doors. Here’s how to measure a hinged patio door:
- To measure the door width, place the tape measure on the inside edge of the left jamb and run it horizontally to the inside edge of the right jamb. Measure at the top, middle, and bottom. You’ll need the smallest measurement.
- To measure the door height, place the tape measure where the door meets the floor and run it vertically to the top (to the underside of the top jamb). Take the measurements on both sides and in the center. You’ll need the smallest measurement.
- (Optional) Measure the size of each door panel by following the steps mentioned above for width and height. This is usually helpful when replacing just one panel and can also help you double-check the total width.
- To measure the depth of the door jamb, open the door fully. Place the measuring tape against the inside edge of the jamb. Measure the depth straight across to the outermost edge of the jamb. Repeat this at different points to ensure consistency.
- Use a level to check if the frame is square – if it is not, write down what adjustments are needed, depending on what causes the misalignment.
- Don’t include any decorative trim in your measurement.
How to Measure a Sliding Patio Door?
Measuring a sliding glass door is similar to measuring a hinged door, with some minor differences. Here are the steps:
- To measure the door width, place the tape measure on the inside edge of the left jamb and run it horizontally to the inside edge of the right jamb. Measure at the top, middle, and bottom. You’ll need the smallest measurement.
- To measure the door height, place the tape measure on the bottom track(where the door rests or slides) and run it vertically to the top (to the underside of the top track). Take the measurements on both sides and in the center. You’ll need the smallest measurement.
- To measure the depth of the door jamb, place the measuring tape against the inside edge of the jamb. Measure the depth straight across to the outermost edge of the jamb. Repeat this at different points to ensure consistency.
- Use a level to check if the frame is square – if it is not, write down what adjustments are needed, depending on what causes the misalignment.
- Don’t include any decorative trim in your measurement.
- If you have fixed panels on the sides of your sliding patio doors, you have to include them in the measurement if you plan to replace the entire door system.
Why Is Accurate Measurement Important?
Whether we’re discussing windows or doors, accurate measurement is of the essence. A high-quality patio door that fits perfectly into a rough opening is bound to be energy-efficient. If its size is not determined correctly, there may be installation problems.
Even if the door eventually fits, it may not be insulated properly, and it may not operate well. There may be air and water leaks, you may find the door difficult to open and close, and whatnot. In other cases, an incorrectly sized door may not fit at all, so you’ll have to order another one.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, measuring and installing a replacement patio door requires professional assistance. The secret is that if you’re not sure about even one measurement, it’s best to call an expert. The thing is that the slightest mistake in measurements can lead to an improperly sized door that will cause installation problems and performance issues.
Plus, if you have custom-sized doors, leaving the measurements to a professional is almost always a must. They can easily handle tricky measurements and installations and ensure smooth operation. Before hiring a contractor, ensure they are licensed and insured to guarantee quality workmanship and protection against potential issues.
Looking for New Patio Doors? Contact Magic!
If you still haven’t chosen your patio doors, you can book a free consultation with Magic to learn more about what makes our products unique in this competitive industry!
With us, you can install 2-, 3-, or 4-panel patio doors made from materials of the highest quality that guarantee their high performance for 40 years! Alternatively, you can install our Window Wall, which can feature sliding doors, bi-fold doors, or French doors.
Have we already mentioned that our patio doors and window walls are the only products on the market designed specifically for Canadian weather? Our patio doors are free of any hinges that could malfunction because of extreme weather conditions, which also means they’re almost completely maintenance-free!
Plus, with Magic, you don’t have to worry about measuring your patio doors yourself. We’ll take care of everything – from A to Z!
Curious to learn more? Contact us at 1-905-856-8805!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to measure the patio door before removing the old door?
Measuring the patio door before removal is essential to obtain accurate dimensions that ensure the new door fits correctly. This step also prevents potential installation issues.
What tools do I need to measure my patio door?
To accurately measure your patio door, you will need a tape measure, pencil, and paper. Having a second person to assist can enhance the precision of your measurements.
What is the size of a standard patio glass door?
Standard patio glass doors measure between 80 and 96 inches in height and between 60 and 72 inches in width, although some can reach a width of 144 inches. Nowadays, however, many patio doors have custom sizes, so it’s generally recommended to measure them accurately.
How do I handle discrepancies in my measurements?
To handle discrepancies in your measurements, it is advisable to take the smallest measurement as the official width or height. This approach minimizes potential fitting issues.
When should I call a professional to measure my patio door?
You should call a professional to measure your patio door when dealing with custom-sized doors, installations on upper levels, or projects that necessitate both interior and exterior measurements.