When replacing or adding a new interior door, it’s essential to know the appropriate rough opening size. A rough opening is the frame built into the wall to hold the door and its hardware. If the opening is too small, the door won’t fit, and if it’s too large, the door will be difficult to install. All you need to know about interior door rough opening sizes is outlined in this article.
What is the Standard Size of an Interior Door Rough Opening?
The standard size of an interior door rough opening is 2 inches wider than the door and 3 inches higher than the door. So, for example, if you have a standard 30-inch door, you need to build a rough opening that is 32 inches wide and 83 inches high.
Measuring and Preparing the Rough Opening
The first step in preparing the rough opening for an interior door is to measure the opening. You will need to measure the height, width, and depth of the opening. Make sure to measure from the top of the subfloor to the bottom of the header, from the inside of the left stud to the inside of the right stud, and from the inside of the header to the outside of the subfloor. Once you have the measurements, you can begin to prepare the rough opening.
You will need to use a saw to cut away any excess drywall or other material that is blocking access to the opening. You may also need to use a chisel to remove any nails or screws that are blocking the opening. When you have finished cutting away any obstructions, you can begin to frame the opening.
Framing the Rough Opening
Once you have the opening measured and cleared out, you can begin to frame the opening. You will need to use 2×4 lumber to build a header and two side jambs. The header should be the same width as the opening, and the two jambs should be the same height as the opening. You may need to use shims to ensure that the frame is level and securely attached to the wall.
Installing the Door
When the rough opening is properly framed, you can begin to install the door. Make sure to measure the door before you install it, to make sure that it fits correctly. You may need to use shims to make small adjustments to the door’s fit. Once you have the door installed, you can add the hardware and trim to finish the installation.
Conclusion
Knowing the correct interior door rough opening size is essential for a successful door installation. The standard size for an interior door rough opening is 2 inches wider than the door and 3 inches higher than the door. When measuring and preparing the rough opening, make sure to take into account the height, width, and depth of the opening. Framing the rough opening and installing the door is the final step in the process.
