Door rough opening sizes
The wall opening you frame is bigger than the door itself — by about 2 inches on width and 2.5 inches on height. Here's the quick chart.
The 'rough opening' (RO) is the framed hole in the wall, before the door frame goes in. It's slightly larger than the door so the frame, shims, and adjustments fit. The rule of thumb: RO width = door width + 2 inches; RO height = door height + 2.5 inches.
In this guide
- 1
Interior hinged doors
24-inch door: RO 26" wide × 82.5" tall. 28: RO 30" × 82.5". 30: RO 32" × 82.5". 32: RO 34" × 82.5". 36: RO 38" × 82.5".
- 2
Exterior hinged doors
32-inch: RO 34" × 82.5". 36: RO 38" × 82.5". Exterior doors sometimes need an extra inch in height for the threshold.
- 3
French doors
60-inch pair: RO 62" × 82.5". 64: RO 66" × 82.5". 72: RO 74" × 82.5".
- 4
Sliding glass doors
60-inch slider: RO 60.5" × 80.5". 72: RO 72.5" × 80.5". 96: RO 96.5" × 80.5". Sliders typically need only ½-inch of margin because they're pre-framed.
- 5
Pocket doors
28-inch pocket: RO 60" wide (to accommodate the cavity) × 82.5" tall. 32-inch: RO 68" wide × 82.5". 36-inch: RO 76" wide × 82.5". Pocket door RO = ~2× door width + 4 inches.
Frequently asked questions
What is a rough opening for a door?
The framed hole in the wall before the door frame is installed — sized larger than the door itself to allow space for the frame, shims, and trim.
How much larger is the rough opening than the door?
2 inches wider and 2.5 inches taller for most hinged doors. Sliding doors are tighter (~½ inch). Pocket doors are much wider (2× door width + 4 inches).
Do I specify rough opening in Room Sketch 3D?
No — Room Sketch 3D uses the door's actual width. RO is a construction detail handled by your builder. Specify the door size; they'll frame the right opening.
Start designing your room
Draw it, furnish it, walk through it in 3D — on web, iOS, and Android.
Open Room Sketch 3DOne-time purchase · No subscription · Web, iOS & Android