Standard Door Height Comparison: Atlanta & Charlotte Homes
| Door Type | Standard Height | Common Widths | Frame Height | Thickness | Notes |
| Interior Doors (bedrooms, bathrooms, hallways) | 80 in (6’8”) | 28–36 in | ~82 in | 1 ⅜ in | Closets may be narrower but usually same height |
| Exterior Entry Doors | 80 in (standard)96 in+ (modern/luxury) | 36–42 in+ | ~82 in+ | 1 ¾ in | 96 in doors common in upscale homes |
| Patio / Sliding Doors | 80 in (standard)96 in (popular) | Varies by panels | ~82 in+ | 1 ¾ in | Taller doors maximize natural light |
| Custom / Luxury Doors | 96–120 in | Varies widely | Custom | 1 ¾ in+ | Designed to match high ceilings |
| ADA-Compliant Doors | 80 in | 36 in min. | ~82 in | 1 ⅜–1 ¾ in | Ensures 32 in clear opening for accessibility |
Walk into almost any home in Atlanta or Charlotte, and you’ll notice something consistent: most doors are the same height. This isn’t by accident — the standard door height is one of the most widely adopted building measurements in the U.S. For homeowners looking to replace doors, remodel, or even buy new construction, knowing the right measurements is essential. It impacts not only how your doors fit but also how they look, function, and hold up over time.
In this article, we’ll break down the most common door heights, when exceptions apply, and what you should know before choosing interior or exterior doors.
At the end of the day, even with the right knowledge, you need a trusted partner to ensure your doors are measured and installed properly. That’s where Davis Window and Door comes in. With showrooms in Atlanta and Charlotte, we specialize in high-quality door replacement and installation services that help homeowners upgrade with confidence. Request a consultation today if you’re planning your next project.
Standard Door Height Explained
Every region has its own architectural quirks, but one thing is true across most of the U.S.: doors tend to stick to a uniform measurement. When people ask about the door height standard, what they’re really asking is: what size will fit most homes without custom adjustments?
Height Of Standard Door In U.S. Homes
The most common standard door height in American homes is 80 inches, or 6 feet 8 inches. This size has been the industry norm for decades because it pairs well with ceiling heights of eight to nine feet, which are typical in residential construction. In addition to height, standard door widths generally range from 24 to 36 inches, depending on the room — with narrower doors often used for closets and wider ones for bedrooms or main passageways.
Why 80 Inches Is the Most Common Size
Why did 80 inches become the benchmark? Building codes, manufacturing efficiency, and practicality all played a role. It’s tall enough for comfort but short enough to keep costs down and ensure stability. While most homes stick to this standard door height, exceptions exist. Older houses may have 78-inch doors, while newer or luxury builds sometimes push for 96 inches or taller to match grander spaces. For homeowners in Atlanta and Charlotte, taller doors are especially popular in modern, high-ceiling homes.
Standard Interior Door Height
When it comes to interior spaces, consistency is key. The standard interior door height is usually the same across bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways, but there are important variations to keep in mind.
Common Sizes For Bedrooms, Bathrooms, And Hallways
Most bedrooms and bathrooms use doors that follow the standard interior door height of 80 inches, with common widths of 28, 30, or 32 inches. Closets and pantries are often narrower, sometimes just 24 inches wide, though their height typically still follows the same door height standard. In newer or higher-end homes, 36-inch-wide doors are increasingly popular for accessibility and a more open feel, but the height remains consistent across nearly every room.
Standard Door Frame Height And Thickness
The standard door frame height is usually about 82 inches, designed to fit an 80-inch door slab. Thickness is another important factor. Most interior doors measure 1 ⅜ inches thick, while oversized or exterior doors are typically 1 ¾ inches. A thicker door offers greater stability, supports heavier hardware, and can improve both soundproofing and energy efficiency. For homeowners planning a remodel, consulting a professional window and door installation company ensures your frame and door thickness are properly matched for long-term performance.
Accessibility Considerations (ADA-Compliant Sizes)
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets clear guidelines for accessible entryways. Doors must provide at least a 32-inch clear opening, which usually requires installing a 36-inch-wide door. The standard door height of 80 inches still applies, ensuring consistent clearance across all spaces. In Atlanta and Charlotte, many high-end remodels adopt these dimensions not only for compliance but also to enhance resale value, accessibility, and day-to-day convenience.
Standard Exterior Door Height
Exterior doors carry more responsibility than just connecting rooms — they provide security, energy efficiency, and curb appeal. The standard exterior door height is similar to interior sizes, but the range of options is broader.
Front Doors In Atlanta And Charlotte Homes
Most front doors measure 36 inches wide by 80 inches tall. That said, modern builds often favor taller, 96-inch entry doors to create a statement. In neighborhoods like Buckhead or Myers Park, these oversized doors are common in luxury homes.
Patio And Sliding Door Heights
Patio doors and sliding glass doors typically start at 80 inches in height, but many homeowners opt for 96 inches to maximize natural light and views. French doors often follow the same height rules but vary in width depending on the number of panels.
Luxury Homes And Taller Custom Entryways
Custom homes frequently push past the standard exterior door height with 8-, 9-, or even 10-foot entryways. These taller doors align with soaring ceilings and add architectural impact. For homeowners considering an upgrade, Davis Window and Door’s door replacement services can help source and install custom options that enhance curb appeal and security.
How to Measure a Door Properly
Replacing a door isn’t as simple as grabbing an 80-inch option off the shelf. Precise measurements make the difference between a seamless installation and costly mistakes.
Measuring Height, Width, And Thickness
Start with the slab itself: measure from top to bottom for height, side to side for width, and edge to edge for thickness. The standard door height is typically 80 inches, with thicknesses of 1 ⅜ inches for interior doors and 1 ¾ inches for exterior or oversized doors. Always confirm your current setup, since older homes or custom builds may differ.
Rough Opening Measurements
The rough opening — the framed hole in the wall before the door frame is installed — is usually about 2 inches taller and 2 inches wider than the door slab. For example, a standard door height of 80 inches requires a rough opening of about 82 inches. This extra space allows for the frame, shims, and proper adjustment during installation.
Door Swing And Frame Considerations
Beyond size, it’s important to note swing direction. A door can be left-hand or right-hand, inswing or outswing. Consider surrounding walls, light switches, and furniture placement when choosing. Professional installers like Davis Window and Door make sure every measurement and swing choice is correct, preventing future issues like sticking or drafts.
If you’re unsure about the different components that make up a door, check out our guide that breaks down the parts of a door and window. Understanding the terminology will make measuring and choosing the right replacement much easier
Standard Door Handle Height And Other Key Measurements
A door’s usability doesn’t stop at its height — hardware placement plays a big role in comfort and design.
Placement For Style And Comfort
The standard door handle height typically falls between 34 and 48 inches from the floor, with 36 inches being the most common. This placement ensures easy access for most people while keeping a consistent look throughout the home.
How Hardware Height Impacts Functionality
Handles installed too high or too low can create frustration and even safety concerns. Families with young children may prefer placement closer to the lower end of the range, while accessibility-focused remodels often adjust for ADA compliance. When replacing doors, it’s worth considering hardware placement alongside the slab size for the best balance of comfort and style. Professional installers like Davis Window and Door can make sure both your doors and hardware are set at the right height for long-term use.
FAQs About Standard Door Height
What Are the Standard Door Sizes?
Interior doors are generally 80 inches tall, with widths between 24 and 36 inches. Exterior doors are usually 36 inches wide by 80 inches tall, though taller sizes are common in newer homes.
How Tall Is a Standard Door Frame?
A standard door frame height is about 82 inches, designed to fit an 80-inch slab with room for the jamb.
Are Most Internal Doors the Same Size?
Yes, most interior doors follow consistent sizing within a single home. Exceptions include closets and utility spaces, which may be narrower.
Is 78 a Standard Door Height?
While not common today, 78-inch doors are often found in older homes. If replacing them, homeowners may need custom sizing.
Is a Door 7 Feet Tall?
Yes, some doors measure 84 inches (7 feet). They are more common in upscale remodels or newer construction with high ceilings.
Why Are 96-Inch Doors Popular in Modern Homes?
Eight-foot doors match tall ceilings and create a sense of openness. They also add resale value by making interiors feel more spacious.
Do Standard Door Sizes Differ in Atlanta and Charlotte?
The measurements are generally the same, but luxury homes in both cities often opt for oversized entry doors as a design choice.
What Is the Rough Opening Size for a Standard Door?
A typical 36” x 80” door needs a rough opening of about 38” x 82”. This allows enough clearance for the frame and installation.
Upgrade Your Home With Davis Window and Door
High-Quality Products, Professional Installation, And Warranty
From standard replacements to custom entryways, Davis Window and Door delivers products that perform — paired with expert installation and warranties that protect your investment. Ready to enhance your home’s beauty and security? Request a consultation today to bring your vision to life, and explore more inspiration on our blog.
