How to Measure the Door Frame for Internal Oak Doors

Table of Contents
    UK oak Doors Helpful Advice page

    Why Accurate Measurements Matter

    Importance of Precise Measurements

    Accurate measurements are crucial when installing internal oak doors. Precise measurements ensure a perfect fit, prevent drafts, and enhance the door's appearance and functionality. Incorrect measurements can lead to gaps, difficulty in opening and closing the door, and costly adjustments.

    Real-life example: Jane ordered a beautiful oak door but didn't measure her door frame correctly. As a result, the door didn't fit, and she had to order a new interior door frame in the right size and wait for a new one.

    Tools Needed for Measuring

    Having the right tools will help you measure accurately.

    You will need:

    • Tape measure
    • Spirit level
    • Pencil and paper
    • Step ladder (if necessary)

    Steps to Measure Your Door Frame

    1. Measuring the Width

    To measure the width of your door frame:

    1. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the frame.
    2. Use the smallest measurement as your door width to ensure it fits properly.

    Real-life example: Tom measured the width of his door frame at three points. He found the middle was slightly narrower, so he used that measurement to order his oak door.

    2. Measuring the Height

    To measure the height of your door frame internal:

    1. Measure the height from the floor to the top of the frame on both the left and right sides.
    2. Use the smallest measurement as your door height to ensure it fits properly.

    Additional Considerations

    1. Checking the Squareness of the Frame

    It's essential to ensure your door frame is square for a proper fit.

    To check for squareness:

    1. Use a spirit level to check the vertical and horizontal alignment of the frame.
    2. Measure the diagonals from corner to corner. If the measurements are equal, the frame is square.

    For more details on bespoke doors, visit our bespoke doors section.

    2. Allowing for Floor Coverings

    Consider any floor coverings when measuring the door height.

    Steps to account for floor coverings:

    1. Measure the thickness of your floor covering (e.g., carpet, tile).
    2. Subtract this measurement from the door height to ensure the door clears the floor covering.

    Recording and Using Measurements

    1. Recording Measurements

    Write down all measurements clearly to avoid confusion later.

    To record measurements:

    1. Use a pencil and paper to note the width and height.
    2. Label each measurement point (top, middle, bottom, left side, right side).

    2. Ordering Your Oak Door

    When ordering your oak door, use the smallest width and height measurements to ensure a proper fit. Provide these measurements to the door supplier for a custom fit.

    For high-quality internal oak doors, visit our Internal Oak Doors section.

    Example Measurement Record

    Measurement Point Measurement (cm)
    Top Width 78 cm
    Middle Width 77 cm
    Bottom Width 78 cm
    Left Height 200 cm
    Right Height 199 cm

    By following these steps and taking accurate measurements, you can ensure your internal oak door fits perfectly, enhancing the beauty and functionality of your home.


    Will Wheat

    About the author

    Will Wheat

    William has spent over a decade working with oak and timber doors — the grades and the grain, the construction and ironmongery, the finishes, and, above all, how a door performs once it's hung and facing the British weather. At UK Oak Doors he brings that hands-on knowledge together with a real eye for how a solid oak door should look and last, whether it's a traditional panelled entrance or a fully glazed garden door. His guidance is practical and refreshingly free of jargon — clear, considered advice that helps homeowners and trade buyers alike choose the right door, measure with confidence and fit it properly, so it looks the part and stays that way for years.