Accurate measurements help us recommend the correct door size and prepare an accurate quote for your project.
Before you start, make sure you have these four key measurements ready.
Measure the width of the rough opening from jack stud to jack stud at three points: top, middle, and bottom.
Measure from the header down to the finished floor. Include any flooring allowance for concrete or hardwood.
Verify the opening is level and square. An uneven opening affects door fit and long-term performance.
Inspect framing condition. Look for any damage, moisture, or structural issues before ordering.
The rough opening is the framed opening where the door system will be installed. It accounts for the door jamb, shimming space, and structural framing.
The design features a double top plate for structural stability and a load-distributing header above the opening. The rough opening width accommodates the door jamb size with shimming space on each side.
Use one rough-opening reference to measure both width and height before ordering your Texas Glass Door.
Remove the outer casing and measure from jack stud to jack stud across the rough opening. Take measurements at three points to confirm the opening is consistent.
Measure from the header down to the finished floor. This determines the total height required for your door system.
Verify these conditions before your installer arrives to avoid delays.
Use a spirit level to confirm the rough opening is level on all sides. An out-of-level opening will affect door swing and seal.
Measure both diagonals of the opening. If the measurements differ by more than ¼ inch, the opening may need adjustment.
Ensure the opening has adequate framing with proper jack studs, king studs, and a load-bearing header rated for the door weight.
Iron doors weigh up to 400 lbs for single doors and 800 lbs for double doors. The wall framing must be capable of supporting this weight.
Structural warning: For large doors such as bi-fold systems, a bearing board may be needed to support the house structure during removal and installation. The installer will assess this before beginning work.
The installer needs these materials ready before beginning work.
Oversized doors require additional structural preparation and specialized handling.
Single iron doors weigh approximately 400 lbs (200 lbs frame + 200 lbs panel). Double doors weigh approximately 800 lbs. Four-panel systems can reach up to 1,500 lbs total.
Large openings may require a bearing board during demolition and a reinforced header rated for the door weight. The installer will assess your specific structure and recommend any needed reinforcements.
Important: Installation of large iron doors requires at least two full days and two experienced installers. This is a custom installation requiring significant time, effort, and specialized equipment.
Understanding your wall framing helps ensure accurate measurements and proper installation support.
The wall framing includes three studs on each side to provide strength and support for the door frame. These are arranged as jack studs, king studs, and cripple studs.
A load-bearing header above the opening distributes weight from above. The double top plate adds stability across the wall section.
The gap between the jamb and studs allows approximately ¾ inch on each side for adjustments and shimming during installation.
If your house has brick walls, dismantling the existing door will be more difficult and may require specialized tools. Notify your installer in advance.
Here is what to expect during the installation of your Texas Glass Door product.
The installer removes the inside and outside casing, then removes the old door. After removal, the installer checks whether the house frame has load-bearing wooden beams to support the new door. If existing support is insufficient, the installer will rebuild the frame with new wooden beams.
The steel door frame is attached to the wooden frame using brackets with 8mm screws. After securing, the installer fills any gaps between the door frame and house frame with expanding foam for a tight seal and insulation.
Silicone is applied around all four edges for a secure, watertight installation. The installer installs casing on both the interior and exterior, and applies matching paint to blend with your home.
During the demolition and installation process, some casing and sheetrock may get damaged. The installer will repair and finish all affected areas before completing the job.
Storage reminder: If you cannot install the iron doors immediately, store them in a dry place away from weather elements. Keep the original cushioning material until you are ready to install.
Choose the right door system for your project.
Send us your measurements and project details. Our team will help you select the right door system and provide a custom quote.
