When replacing a commercial door, getting the hinge locations right is important especially if you plan to reuse the existing frame. Even a small difference in hinge placement can prevent the new door from lining up correctly with the frame.
Before ordering your replacement door, here’s how to determine your existing hinge locations and measure them correctly.
What Are Hinge Locations?
Hinge locations tell us exactly where each hinge is positioned on the door.
Commercial doors typically have three or more hinges depending on the height and weight of the door. The locations need to match the hinge preparations on the existing frame if that frame is being reused.
This is why simply knowing that your door has “three hinges” isn’t enough. We need the actual measurements.
How to Measure Commercial Door Hinge Locations
Start with the door in a position where you can easily access the hinge side.
1. Start at the top of the door
Place your tape measure at the very top edge of the door itself – not the top of the frame.
2. Measure to the top of each hinge
Measure straight down from the top of the door to the top edge of each hinge.
For example, your measurements may look something like:
- Top hinge: 7 1/2″
- Middle hinge: 37 1/2″
- Bottom hinge: 67 1/2″
Your actual measurements may be different, so always measure the existing door rather than assuming the locations are standard.
Measure the Hinge Size Too
Along with the hinge locations, check the size of the existing hinges.
Measure the height and width of the hinge while it is open. Commercial doors commonly use heavier-duty hinges than residential doors, so providing the correct size helps make sure the new door is prepared properly.
Don’t Measure From the Frame
One of the easiest mistakes to make is measuring hinge locations from the top of the frame instead of the top of the door.
If you’re providing door hinge locations, measurements should be taken consistently from the top of the actual door.
This gives us a clear reference point when preparing the replacement door.ate ordering.
Why Hinge Locations Matter When Replacing a Door
If you’re keeping your existing frame, the hinge locations on your new door need to line up with the hinge locations already prepared in that frame.
Incorrect measurements can cause the hinges to sit too high or too low, preventing the door from hanging correctly.
Taking a few extra minutes to double-check your measurements can make installation much easier.
What Else Should You Check?
Hinge locations are only one part of measuring for a replacement commercial door. Depending on your existing opening, you may also need to determine:
Other hardware preparationsmit hardware options or require reordering.
Door width and height
Door thickness
Hinge size
Number of hinges
Door handing
Lock or hardware locations
Existing frame type
Need Help Determining Your Hinge Locations?
Not sure what measurements you need?
Doors Unlimited can help you determine the information needed to order your replacement commercial door. Providing accurate measurements and photos of your existing door and frame can help us identify the correct preparations for your opening.
Whether you need a hollow metal door, commercial wood door, fire-rated door, stainless steel door, or frame, we can help you find the right option for your project. can prevent costly errors later.
Doors Unlimited Inc. Is Here to Help
At Doors Unlimited Inc, we supply wood and hollow metal doors, with full customization, hardware and support so you get the right door for your building’s actual needs. If you’re ready to explore quotes or need help determining the fit, we’re here to help.