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Your front door is more than just an entrance—it’s the face of your home, a key security feature, and a critical barrier against Ireland’s unpredictable weather. Whether you’re battling Atlantic winds or planning to boost your home’s kerb appeal, choosing the right door size and style is essential.
Understanding Standard Front Door Sizes
Most Irish homes feature front doors measuring 36″ x 80″ (approximately 910mm x 2030mm). This standard size works for the majority of properties, but don’t assume it’s right for yours without measuring first.
Common door dimensions include:
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Single doors: 30″ to 36″ wide (760mm to 910mm)
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Heights: 78″ to 96″ (1980mm to 2440mm)
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Double doors: 60″ to 72″ wide (1520mm to 1830mm)
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Standard thickness: 1-3/4″ (44mm) for exterior doors
How to Measure Your Front Door Properly
Before shopping for a new door, take accurate measurements of your current setup:
Measuring the Door
Measure the width from edge to edge and height from top to bottom of your existing door. Record these dimensions carefully.
Measuring the Frame (Jamb)
The door frame depth is crucial for proper installation. Standard frame depths are 4-9/16″ (116mm) and 6-9/16″ (167mm). Measure from the inside edge to the outside edge of the frame.
Check the Opening
If you’re considering a larger door or double entry, measure the full opening width and height, including any space currently occupied by sidelights or panels.
Choosing the Right Door Material for Irish Weather
Ireland’s damp climate requires careful material selection to ensure your door lasts decades, not years.
Fibreglass Doors (Recommended)
Fibreglass offers the best value for Irish homes. These doors resist warping in humidity, require minimal maintenance, and include insulating foam cores that help reduce heating costs—essential for our cool, damp climate. They can be finished to look like natural wood without the upkeep.
Steel Doors
Steel provides excellent security and energy efficiency with built-in insulation. However, in coastal areas or regions with high rainfall, steel doors can rust over time despite protective coatings. They’re best suited for sheltered entrances.
Solid Wood Doors
While beautiful and traditional, solid wood doors demand significant maintenance in Irish weather. Regular sealing and painting are necessary to prevent warping, swelling, and rot caused by our high humidity levels. They’re the premium option but require commitment to upkeep.
Key Features to Consider
Energy Efficiency
With Irish energy costs rising, choose doors with proper insulation and weatherstripping. Look for doors with U-values below 1.6 W/m²K to qualify for SEAI grants and keep heating bills down.
Security
Your front door is your home’s first line of defence. Ensure it meets insurance requirements with multi-point locking systems and reinforced frames. Check that the door is PAS 024 certified for enhanced security.
Glass Panels and Sidelights
Glass elements add natural light to hallways but consider privacy and heat loss. Double or triple-glazed units are essential for Irish homes. Decorative glass options can enhance style while maintaining privacy.
Colour and Finish
Choose colours that complement your home’s exterior while considering how they’ll age in UV exposure. Darker colours may fade faster, while lighter shades hide weathering better.
Budget Planning
Single entry doors: €800-€3,500
Double entry doors: €2,000-€6,000+
Installation costs: €300-€800 depending on complexity
Remember that prehung doors (complete with frame, hinges, and hardware) cost more upfront but save significantly on installation time and labour costs.
When to Replace vs. Repair
Replace your front door if you notice:
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Visible warping or difficulty opening/closing
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Draughts around the frame
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Rot or rust damage
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Outdated security features
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Poor energy efficiency causing high heating bills
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Desire for improved kerb appeal before selling
Minor issues like faded paint, scratched finishes, or loose hardware can often be repaired cost-effectively.
Professional Installation Matters
While DIY installation is possible for experienced home improvers, professional fitting ensures:
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Proper weatherproofing and draught-proofing
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Correct alignment preventing future issues
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Warranty protection on both door and installation
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Compliance with building regulations
Most installations take 4-6 hours with professional teams.
Ready to transform your home’s entrance? Expert Windows offers premium front doors perfectly suited to Irish homes, with expert installation across the country. Our team provides free consultations to help you choose the ideal door size, material, and style for your property. Contact us today for a personalised quote and discover how the right front door can enhance your home’s security, energy efficiency, and curb appeal.
