Choosing the right interior door is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about ensuring a proper fit for functionality and durability. Whether you’re replacing an existing door or installing a new one, understanding standard door dimensions is crucial. Additionally, in cases where standard sizes don’t fit, you may need to trim a door or opt for a custom-sized one. In this guide, we’ll break down standard interior door sizes, when trimming is appropriate, and why custom doors might be the best solution for your space.
What Are Standard Interior Door Dimensions?
When choosing an interior door, it’s essential to understand standard door dimensions to ensure the perfect fit. Doors are typically measured in inches or feet, following the sequence: width, height, and thickness. Knowing these standard measurements will help you select the right door for your space or determine if you need a custom-sized door.
Standard Interior Door Sizes
Width
- Standard interior door widths range from 12” to 42”.
- Widths increase in 2-inch increments, meaning common door sizes include 26”, 28”, 30”, 32”, and so on.
- If you require a width that falls between these standard measurements, it will be considered a custom door size.
Height
- Interior doors come in four standard heights:
- 80” (most common for residential applications)
- 84” (for taller spaces)
- 90” (a little extra height)
- 96” (for high-ceiling applications)
- Any height outside of these standards will require a custom-made door.
Thickness
- Most interior doors come in either 1 3/8” or 1 3/4” thick.
- A general rule of thumb:
- 1-3/8” thick doors are suitable for 80” and 84” tall doors.
- 1-3/4” thick doors provide better stability and are recommended for 90” and 96” tall doors.
- Retrofit/ renovation and you are using the existing jambs, follow what was existing.
If your space does not accommodate a standard door size, don’t worry. Many renovations and retrofits require custom doors, and companies like Royal Door and Trim Supplies offer both standard stock doors and custom-made options to fit any opening.

Can You Trim Interior Doors?
Yes, interior doors can be trimmed slightly to fit non-standard openings. However, excessive trimming can affect the structural integrity of the door. Here are the general trimming guidelines:
- Up to ¼” off the sides is acceptable.
- Up to 2” off the bottom can be removed if necessary.
- Trimming beyond these limits can weaken the door and impact its longevity and will void the warranty.
Important Considerations When Trimming Doors
- Seal Cut Areas: If the door is primed, any trimmed areas should be reprimed to protect against moisture and humidity damage.
- Consistency in Appearance: If multiple doors are installed in the same space, trimming one door too much may result in visual inconsistencies with the others.
- Custom Doors as an Alternative: Instead of excessive trimming, opting for a custom-sized door ensures the correct proportions and a seamless appearance.
- Hardware: When trimming the side rails too much, there is always the possibility of the door handles not sitting in the centre of the rail.
With customization options readily available, choosing a custom-sized door over extensive trimming can be the easier and more aesthetically pleasing solution.
Conclusion
Understanding standard interior door dimensions helps in selecting the right door for your project. Standard widths range from 12” to 42”, while standard heights include 80”, 84”, 90”, and 96”. Door thickness varies between 1-3/8” and 1-3/4”, depending on height and stability needs.
While trimming doors is possible, excessive cutting can weaken the door’s structure and impact its overall look. If your door opening does not fit a standard size, consider investing in a custom-sized door for the best fit and finish. Royal Door and Trim Supplies offers a variety of standard and custom doors to meet any design requirement.
Whether you’re renovating, replacing, or installing a new door, these measurements and considerations will help you make an informed decision!