The standard door height in the UK is 1981mm, which is the metric version of the old imperial 6 feet 6 inches. That single figure covers the vast majority of internal and external doors in British homes, so if you are replacing a door and want a quick answer, that is it.
Of course, there is a bit more to it, especially in older properties, taller modern homes and anywhere with an unusual opening. Here is the full picture in plain terms.
The standard door height explained
Most doors you will come across measure 1981mm tall. This has been the go to height for decades, dating back to the imperial 6 feet 6 inches (78 inches) that was standard before metric measurements took over. Because so many homes were built around it, 1981mm remains the default height for both internal doors and most external front and back doors.
You will see this height paired with a range of widths, from narrow 610mm cupboard doors up to wider 838mm accessible doors, but the height usually stays the same at 1981mm.
The other common height: 2040mm
Alongside 1981mm, there is a second popular metric height of 2040mm. You will find this in many newer homes and in ranges designed to metric standards from the start rather than converted from imperial.
Doors at 2040mm are usually paired with slightly different widths, such as 626mm, 726mm, 826mm and 926mm. If your home was built more recently, there is a good chance your doors are this taller metric size, so it is always worth measuring rather than assuming.
Standard external door height
External doors, meaning your front and back doors, follow the same heights as internal ones in most homes. The standard height for a front door is typically 1981mm, though 2032mm (6 feet 8 inches) also appears, particularly on newer or larger properties.
External doors are thicker than internal ones, usually 44mm rather than 35mm, but the height convention is much the same. If you are choosing a new entrance door, our composite door range comes in standard heights as well as made to measure sizes for awkward openings.
Where taller doors are needed
Standard heights suit most homes, but there are times when a taller door makes sense:
- Modern homes with high ceilings. Contemporary builds and extensions sometimes use oversized doors, often 2100mm or more, for a grander, more open feel.
- Accessibility. Wider and occasionally taller doors help wheelchair access and moving equipment through the home.
- Feature entrances. A tall front door makes a statement and suits properties with a generous porch or hallway.
- Barn conversions and unusual openings. Older agricultural and period buildings around North Yorkshire often have openings that no standard size will fit.
In these cases a made to measure door is the answer. It costs a little more but fits properly, seals against draughts and looks right.
What about older York homes?
Period properties are where standard heights go out of the window, so to speak. Homes built in the Victorian era and earlier often have door openings that have settled, shifted or were never truly square to begin with. It is very common for these to need a made to measure or trimmed door.
If you live in an older terrace or cottage, do not assume a standard door will drop straight in. Measuring properly first, or having someone survey the opening, saves a lot of frustration. Our uPVC and composite doors can be supplied to fit non-standard openings when a stock size will not do.
How to measure your door height
Measuring is simple but worth doing carefully:
- Measure the height of the door leaf itself from top to bottom, on both edges, as one side is often a touch different from the other.
- If you are replacing the frame too, measure the full opening height as well.
- Use the readings to match a standard size, or note them for a made to measure order if nothing fits.
If in any doubt, get it surveyed. A quick measure up avoids ordering the wrong size, which is the most common and most avoidable mistake.
FAQs
What is the standard internal door height in the UK?
The standard internal door height is 1981mm, the metric equivalent of 6 feet 6 inches. A second common height, 2040mm, appears in many newer homes, so it is always worth measuring your existing door before ordering.
Is a front door the same height as an internal door?
In most homes, yes. Front doors are typically 1981mm tall, the same as internal doors, though they are thicker at around 44mm for security and insulation. Some newer or larger homes use taller sizes such as 2032mm.
Why are my doors not a standard height?
Older and period homes often have openings that have settled over time or were never perfectly square, so a standard door will not always fit. This is completely normal and usually calls for a made to measure or trimmed door.
Can I get a taller than standard door?
Yes. Made to measure doors can be built to almost any height, which is ideal for modern homes with high ceilings, feature entrances or unusual openings. A bespoke door fits and seals properly, so it is well worth it when standard sizes do not suit.
Want to see the styles and finishes available in standard and bespoke sizes? Download our latest brochure, or request a free quote and we will measure up at your home.