What Is a Standard French Door Size?
A standard French door size refers to the common width and height combinations that manufacturers produce for pre-hung door units, making them readily available without special ordering. For the North American market, the most common standard height is 80 inches (6 feet 8 inches), with widths varying based on whether the door is used for an interior passage or an exterior entrance.
The term “standard” does not mean one universal dimension. It means a set of industry-accepted nominal sizes that builders and manufacturers have aligned on to fit typical rough openings. For a pair of French doors, the standard width is typically expressed as the total combined width of both door panels, not the width of a single door. Common total widths include 60 inches (5 feet), 64 inches, and 72 inches (6 feet).
A critical distinction to understand upfront: nominal size versus actual size. A door labeled as 36 inches wide does not physically measure 36 inches. The actual panel is usually 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch smaller to allow for the jambs, hinges, and clearance within the frame. When planning an opening, you must account for this difference between the door slab size and the rough opening size.
Standard French Door Sizes: Interior vs. Exterior
French doors serve two distinct functions, and the standard dimensions reflect their different requirements.
Interior French doors are primarily passage doors between rooms, such as between a living room and dining room, or for closets and home offices. Because they do not need to accommodate weatherproofing or building envelope concerns, the standards are simpler. The most common interior French door sizes are:
- 60 inches wide x 80 inches high (two 30-inch panels) — the most popular configuration for a standard double doorway
- 64 inches wide x 80 inches high (two 32-inch panels) — used when a wider passage is needed
- 72 inches wide x 80 inches high (two 36-inch panels) — a wider opening for moving furniture or for accessibility
Exterior French doors must meet additional performance criteria: weatherstripping, threshold height, and often local energy codes. They are typically built with thicker frames and may include insulated glass. Standard exterior French door sizes are:
- 60 inches wide x 80 inches high — fits a standard 6-foot rough opening
- 72 inches wide x 80 inches high — fits a standard 6-foot rough opening with wider panels
- 72 inches wide x 96 inches high (8 feet) — for taller ceiling heights and grander entrances
The key difference in exterior sizing is the rough opening height. Exterior doors sit on a threshold that must clear the finished floor, subfloor, and any exterior deck or patio surface. A common allowance is 3/4 inch of clearance at the bottom for flooring and threshold adjustments, whereas interior doors may only need 1/2 inch.
French Door Size Chart (Common Dimensions)
The following table lists common French door configurations with their nominal sizes and typical rough opening dimensions. These figures represent industry practice for pre-hung units; always confirm with the manufacturer before framing an opening.
| Configuration | Nominal Door Size (W x H) | Actual Panel Width (each) | Typical Rough Opening Width | Typical Rough Opening Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single French Door | 30″ x 80″ | 29 1/2″ | 32″ | 82″ |
| Single French Door | 32″ x 80″ | 31 1/2″ | 34″ | 82″ |
| Single French Door | 36″ x 80″ | 35 1/2″ | 38″ | 82″ |
| Double French Doors | 60″ x 80″ | 29 1/2″ each | 62″ | 82″ |
| Double French Doors | 64″ x 80″ | 31 1/2″ each | 66″ | 82″ |
| Double French Doors | 72″ x 80″ | 35 1/2″ each | 74″ | 82″ |
| Double French Doors | 72″ x 96″ | 35 1/2″ each | 74″ | 98″ |
The rough opening figures assume standard framing practices: 1/2 inch clearance on the sides and top of the door unit, plus an allowance for the jambs. The height includes approximately 3/4 inch for flooring and leveling. These are starting points — a manufacturer’s installation guide may specify different clearances based on their frame design.
How to Measure for French Doors
Measuring for French doors requires accuracy to 1/8 inch. The process differs depending on whether you are replacing an existing door or framing a new opening.
For an existing opening (replacement):
- Measure the width at three points: the top, middle, and bottom of the opening. Record the smallest measurement. Door frames are rarely perfectly square, and the narrowest point determines the maximum door width that will fit.
- Measure the height at the left, center, and right of the opening. Again, use the shortest measurement. Measure from the finished floor to the top of the rough opening, not from the subfloor.
- Measure the depth of the wall opening (the jamb depth). Standard walls are 4 9/16 inches or 6 9/16 inches deep for 2×4 and 2×6 construction, but plaster, tile, or exterior siding can alter this. The door frame must match the wall depth for a clean finish.
- Check for square by measuring the diagonals of the opening. If the diagonals differ by more than 1/4 inch, the opening is out of square. You will need to either correct the framing or order a door with adjustments planned.
For new construction:
- Determine the nominal door size you want.
- Add 2 inches to the door width for the rough opening width. A 60-inch double door needs a 62-inch rough opening.
- Add 2 inches to the door height for the rough opening height. An 80-inch door needs an 82-inch rough opening. This accounts for the frame, shimming space, and the sill or threshold.
The most common mistake is measuring the interior trim or the door slab itself rather than the rough opening behind it. Remove the interior casing on one side to expose the actual framing before measuring. If you cannot remove trim, measure the door slab and add the jamb thickness plus 1/4 inch to estimate the unit size — but this is an estimate, not a reliable measurement.
When to Consider Custom-Size French Doors
Standard sizes cover the majority of residential and light commercial openings, but they are not universal. Custom-size French doors become necessary in several situations:
- Non-standard rough openings: Older homes, custom builds, and renovated spaces often have openings that do not align with modern standard dimensions. A 58-inch opening, for example, will not accept a standard 60-inch door unit.
- Historic renovations: Buildings constructed before the mid-20th century frequently used imperial dimensions that differ from today’s standards. Matching the original opening often requires a custom build.
- Accessibility requirements: Commercial spaces and some residential projects must meet clear width requirements that exceed standard double-door widths. A 36-inch clear opening may require a pair of doors that each measure wider than the standard 36-inch nominal panel.
- Higher ceilings: Standard 80-inch doors look undersized in rooms with 10-foot or taller ceilings. Custom heights of 84, 96, or even 120 inches are common in luxury residential and hospitality projects.
- Performance requirements: Exterior doors in high-wind or severe-weather regions may need reinforced frames that alter the standard dimensions. A custom door allows the manufacturer to maintain the rough opening size while increasing the frame’s structural capacity.
When considering custom sizes, the trade-off is cost and lead time. Custom doors typically cost more than standard stock units and require a longer manufacturing cycle. For B2B buyers — contractors, architects, or developers — the rule is straightforward: if a standard size fits the opening, use it. If it does not, custom sizing is almost always less expensive than modifying the structural opening to fit a standard door.
Related Considerations for French Door Sizing
Beyond the basic width and height, several factors affect which French door size is right for a project.
Pre-hung vs. slab units. A pre-hung door comes with the frame, hinges, and jambs already assembled. A slab door is just the door panel. Pre-hung units require a smaller rough opening because the frame is included in the unit dimensions. Slab doors are typically used for replacements where the existing frame is sound. When ordering a slab, you must match the existing frame’s dimensions precisely, not the rough opening.
Rough opening calculations. The relationship between door size and rough opening is not arbitrary. The rough opening must accommodate the door unit plus shim space for leveling and squaring. A typical allowance is 1/2 inch on each side and the top, plus 3/4 inch at the bottom for flooring. For a 72-inch wide door, the rough opening is 74 inches. For an 80-inch tall door, the rough opening is 82 inches. These figures can vary by manufacturer, so always verify before framing.
Flooring thickness and level. The rough opening height must account for the finished floor level. If you measure from the subfloor but the finished floor adds 3/4 inch (tile and underlayment, for example), an 80-inch door will have only 1/4 inch of bottom clearance, which may be insufficient for the threshold. Measure from the highest point of the finished floor to the top of the rough opening.
Swing clearance. French doors open inward or outward, and each requires clearance for the swing arc. For interior doors, the swing area must be free of furniture or walls. For exterior doors, an outward swing requires a landing or deck clearance, and an inward swing requires interior floor space. Building codes in many jurisdictions require a minimum landing area on both sides of an exterior door — at least as deep as the door width. This affects where the door can be placed, not the door size itself, but it is a common oversight in planning.
Nominal vs. actual dimensions. A 36-inch French door panel does not measure 36 inches across. The actual panel is typically 35 1/2 inches wide to allow for the gap between the door and the jambs. When ordering a slab door for an existing frame, measure the frame’s interior dimensions, not the old door’s nominal label. This distinction causes more ordering errors than any other factor.
Terms Buyers Should Know
| Term | What it means | Why it matters when buying |
|---|---|---|
| Nominal size | The labeled or advertised size of a door (e.g., 36″ x 80″) | The actual physical dimensions are slightly smaller. Ordering by nominal size is standard, but never assume the actual measurement matches the label. |
| Rough opening | The framed opening in the wall where the door unit will be installed | It must be larger than the door unit to allow for shimming and leveling. An incorrectly sized rough opening is the most common cause of installation problems. |
| Pre-hung unit | A door that comes with the frame, jambs, and hinges pre-assembled | The rough opening must accommodate the entire unit, not just the door slab. Pre-hung units are easier to install but require precise rough opening dimensions. |
| Jamb depth | The thickness of the door frame measured from the interior to the exterior surface | The jamb must match the wall thickness. A mismatch leaves gaps that require trim work or shimming, which can compromise the door’s fit and operation. |
Frequently Asked Questions About French Door Sizes
What is the average size of French doors?
The most common French door size for both interior and exterior applications is 60 inches wide by 80 inches high (two 30-inch panels). This configuration fits the standard 62-inch rough opening found in most residential construction. For exterior applications, 72 inches by 80 inches is also common, providing wider panels for a more substantial entry.
What is the standard size for a French door in a standard doorway?
A standard single doorway is typically 36 inches wide. A French door that fits this opening would be a single 36-inch door or a pair of doors totaling 36 inches when closed. However, true French doors (two hinged panels) are more commonly installed in wider openings of 60 or 72 inches. For a standard 36-inch doorway, a single French door panel is the appropriate choice, though it is less common than a double-door configuration.
Can French doors be made in custom sizes?
Yes. Most manufacturers, including those producing aluminum and wood French doors, offer full customization of width, height, glass configuration, and hardware. Custom sizes are necessary for non-standard openings, historic renovations, or projects requiring specific clear widths. The trade-off is a higher cost and longer lead time compared to stock sizes.
Are French doors 6 feet wide?
Yes, 6 feet (72 inches) is a standard width for French doors. This configuration uses two 36-inch panels and requires a rough opening of approximately 74 inches. A 6-foot French door is common for exterior applications where a wider entrance is desired, and it provides a clear passage of roughly 68 to 70 inches when both doors are open.
What is the rough opening for a 60-inch French door?
A 60-inch French door requires a rough opening of approximately 62 inches wide and 82 inches high for an 80-inch door. These dimensions assume 1/2 inch of shim space on each side and the top, plus 3/4 inch at the bottom for flooring. Always verify with the specific manufacturer, as frame designs can change the required clearances.
How much space do French doors need for swing?
French doors require clearance equal to the door’s width plus the swing arc. For a pair of 30-inch doors, the swing area is a 60-inch wide arc extending into the room (or outward, depending on the swing direction). Additionally, you need approximately 12 to 18 inches of wall space on the latch side of each door for the door to rest fully open without blocking the opening. For exterior doors, local building codes may require a landing that is at least as deep as the door’s width.
What is the difference between nominal and actual French door sizes?
The nominal size is the advertised dimension, such as 36 inches by 80 inches. The actual size of the door slab is typically 1/2 inch smaller in width and height — for example, 35 1/2 inches by 79 1/2 inches. This difference accommodates the gap between the door and the frame, allowing for proper operation and adjustment. When measuring an existing door for replacement, measure the actual slab and the frame opening, not the nominal label.
As a manufacturer of custom doors and windows, we regularly work with buyers who need dimensions beyond the standard range. Whether it is a 74-inch opening that needs a precise fit, a 96-inch-tall door for a grand entrance, or a multi-panel configuration for a commercial project, our factory supports full customization on size, glass, and hardware.
We supply directly from our manufacturing facility, which means you work with the production team rather than a distributor, and we can adjust profile structures and fittings to match local building codes in your target market. Before shipment, every unit undergoes air-tightness, water-tightness, and wind resistance testing to verify performance. For international orders, we provide complete customs documentation and support both FCL and LCL shipping.
If you are planning a project and need a dimension that is not on the standard chart, send us your rough opening measurements and we will confirm what is possible.
