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The best direction for a gate to swing depends on its location and purpose, but swinging inward is the general rule. An inward swing is often considered safer, prevents the gate from opening into public spaces like a sidewalk, and may be required by local building codes.

There are exceptions and specific considerations. If your property is on a slope, an inward swing might not be possible. For a deck gate, it's safest to have it swing away from any steps. In a backyard, the direction can be a matter of preference, though an inward swing can be helpful when carrying heavy items like a wheelbarrow into a garden.

Regardless of direction, ensure the gate can open fully without hitting any objects or blocking spaces. While an inward swing is standard, a gate that can swing both in and out offers the most flexibility if your setup allows for it.

Most bedroom doors are 30, 32, or 36 inches wide and about 80 inches tall, depending on the size of the room, the height of the ceiling, and any special accommodations that may be necessary for the bedroom’s occupant. The size of your bedroom door may be larger than average if it leads into a very large bedroom or a home with unique wall or ceiling features.

Begin by determining which way you want the door to swing based on the layout of your room. Traditionally, left-handed doors have a doorknob closest to your left hand, and right-handed doors include a doorknob closest to your right. Right-handed doors with left hinges swing inward and vice versa. This can vary based on the layout of your home, though.

Many doors can be cut to size, but it depends on the door material. Solid wood doors are relatively easy to trim to a specific size, while hollow core and metal doors are trickier and can usually only be shaved down a little before you risk damaging them. If your door needs a lot of adjustment, it's best to order a custom size or have a pro do the resizing to make sure it holds up over time.