Get matched with top door pros in Brandon, SD

Standard door sizes aren’t one-size-fits-all, but there are common go-to dimensions. For exterior doors—like your front door—36 inches wide by 80 inches tall is typical, though you’ll see 30- or 32-inch widths too, especially in older homes. Interior doors vary more. Bedrooms and bathrooms often use 30- to 32-inch widths, and closet doors can be anything from slim singles to wide bi-folds. Height is usually 80 inches across the board; however, always measure your actual opening. “Standard” only works if it matches what’s already in place.

A slab door is a standalone door without a frame or hardware. A prehung door is a complete set that includes the door, frame, hinges, and sometimes the doorknob and lockset.

In most cases, a prehung door is the better and easier option to install, especially for DIY projects or exterior applications, as they often come pre-weatherproofed. They require fewer tools and less experience to install properly. Although prehung doors are heavier and have a higher upfront cost, the investment is often worthwhile for a complete upgrade that includes a new frame.

A slab door may be a better choice if you are on a tight budget, have a custom-sized wall opening, or only need to replace the door while keeping the existing frame. While the initial cost is lower, you will need to purchase all the hardware separately and do more DIY work to hang it, which may not result in significant time or money savings.

Brickmould isn’t just for doors. It’s used around windows similarly to how it's used around doors. The purpose is to create protection and ward off moisture and insects that could otherwise invade the gap between the frame and the home’s exterior. As with doors, brickmould creates a finished look on the windows and acts as a decorative element.

Regular maintenance of patio doors can keep them working and looking their best for years to come. Cleaning tracks and rollers, replacing damaged or worn weatherstripping, and routinely checking the door’s alignment can extend the life of your patio doors. Exercising care while using the doors can also keep them in good condition; avoid slamming doors shut, exerting heavy pressure against them, or forcing the latch mechanisms.