Measuring for a Composite Door
Written by Cornwall Composite DoorsReviewed by Cornwall Composite Doors installersLast updated July 20264 minute read
Short answer
A surveyor measures the width, height, and diagonals of your door opening, checks it's square and plumb, and notes the wall thickness and any obstructions. This survey visit takes around 30 minutes and forms the basis of your bespoke frame order.
Getting the measurements right is one of the most important stages of the whole process, since a composite door frame is made to order rather than trimmed on site. Here's what a proper survey involves and why it matters.
What a surveyor actually measures
A surveyor records the width and height of the opening at multiple points, plus both diagonals to check for square. They also note wall thickness, the depth of the reveal, and the position of the cavity if there is one, all of which affect the frame specification.
Why old openings are rarely perfectly square
Houses settle over decades, and older Cornish properties built with stone or granite were often not perfectly true to begin with. A good survey accounts for this by measuring the smallest usable dimensions and specifying a frame that will fit correctly once packed and shimmed.
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Non-standard and bespoke openings
Wider or taller than standard openings, porches, or unusual stone surrounds can all be accommodated with a bespoke-sized frame. This is common in period Cornish cottages and doesn't typically add significant cost, but it does need accurate survey measurements.
Why the survey takes around 30 minutes
A thorough survey isn't rushed. As well as measuring, the surveyor checks the condition of the surrounding brickwork or stone, confirms your chosen style and glazing fit the opening, and answers any questions before the order is placed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I measure the opening myself for a quote?
Rough measurements are useful for an initial estimate, but the final order is always based on a professional survey. This avoids costly mistakes since the frame is manufactured to the exact dimensions recorded.
What if my opening isn't a standard size?
Composite doors can be manufactured to bespoke sizes, which is common in older Cornish properties with non-standard openings. Your surveyor will flag this and specify accordingly, it just needs accurate measuring.
Does the survey cost anything?
Most installers, including Cornwall Composite Doors, offer a free survey as part of the quoting process. It's worth confirming this upfront when you first get in touch.
Explore next
More installation advice
- Preparing for Door InstallationA little preparation before the fitters arrive makes installation day quicker and smoother.
- Do Composite Doors Need Planning Permission?For most homes, replacing a door is straightforward, but listed buildings and conservation areas change things.
- Common Installation MistakesMost door problems trace back to how the frame was fitted, not the door itself.
