How to Measure for a Bifold Door

A bifold door is the most common door used for closets. This type of door is economical and reasonably easy to install, but installation can only be done if you know the size of door you need. Measuring for a bifold door takes only a few minutes and a few tools, and will help you get the door that best meets your requirements.

Step 1 - Remove Old Bifold Door

If you're replacing a bifold door, remove the old one so you have an open space to work with for your measurements. It's easier to measure an open space accurately. Be sure to remove all the old hardware as well so there's nothing for the tape measure to get stuck on an alter your final readings.

Step 2 - Determine the Type of Bifold Door You Want

Decide what type of bifold door you would like. They can be made from different materials such as MDF, solid wood or reclaimed wood products. They also come in different styles like French doors with glass inserts, and ones with various styles of paneling. Not all styles come in all sizes. The type of bifold door you would like may determine how you measure the opening since different styles can require different spacing for bracing. This space for bracing can vary from 6 to 12 inches. A 48-inch wide closet opening could fit either a 30-inch bifold door or a 36-inch one depending on the style and bracing system used. Standard widths for bifold doors are 24, 30, 32 and 36 inches. Anything of a different size will require a custom made door.

Step 3 - Measure for Door Height

Place the metal edge of your tape measure on the floor at the bottom of the opening but inside the frame. Carefully pull up the measuring tape until you reach the top. Write down the number. The standard bifold door requires 80.75 inches. If your opening is larger or smaller than this, you will need to choose a different type of door or get a custom made bifold.

Step 4 - Measure the Door Width

Your choice of bifold door will determine the procedure for width measurement. Place the metal edge of your tape measure on one finished edge of the doorway. The finished edge you choose to begin measuring with will depend on whether you're right- or left-handed. A right-handed person will likely feel more comfortable measuring from left to right and will begin measuring on the top left finished edge of the door opening. Either direction will provide an accurate reading. Measure the bottom of the opening the same way to make sure the opening is square. If the opening isn't square, you may need to fix the opening to make the new bifold door fit.

Step 5 - Measure Again

Redo all your measurements. It's important to have the right measurements because even a small mistake could cause you to get the wrong type of door and have difficulty during the installation process.