One of the most important things to know when you are planning to replace or install a door is the standard size of a patio door. Width and height can change at the base of the brand. The term “standard” is often used, but it does not always mean the same thing for every manufacturer.
In this guide, we explain the most common patio door sizes. We also cover how measurements are taken and why custom doors often fit best. With clear information, you can choose a door that matches your space.
What a Standard Patio Door Size Usually Means
When someone says “standard patio door,” they are usually talking about the width. The most common sizes you’ll hear are 5 ft, 6 ft, 8 ft, 10 ft, 12 ft, and 16 ft.
Height is another key part of the measurement. Doors are often either 80 inches (6’8″) or 96 inches (8 ft) tall. In practice, though, these numbers are rarely exact. One company might build an “8 ft” door that measures 97 ½ inches tall. Another might make theirs 95 ¾ inches.
Pro Tip: Don’t trust the label alone. Always measure your opening before you order a replacement. Even a small gap can affect the way a door works and seals.
Why Different Brands Have Different Sizes
Patio doors are not made under a single universal standard. Each manufacturer builds to their own set of numbers.
Because of this, two doors that are both described as “6 ft wide” can be slightly different. Height is where you’ll see the most variation. These differences may look minor, but they can change how the door installs, seals, and even how long it lasts.
Why Custom Patio Doors Fit Better
At Thermal King, we take a different approach. Instead of trying to make a door opening work with a pre-set size, we build the door to fit the exact measurements of your home.
If your opening is 95 ¾ inches tall, we build it that way. If it’s 97 ½, we size it for that. When we talk about a 5 ft or 6 ft door, we’re only talking about the width. Six-foot-wide doors are the most common, but we provide every size.
A custom fit gives you three clear benefits:
- A cleaner look with no awkward filler pieces
- A smoother glide and better operation
- A tighter seal that improves energy efficiency
Why Four-Panel Patio Doors Are Becoming More Popular
Large openings, like 10 ft, 12 ft, or 16 ft, work well with four panels. A 12 ft system has four panels, each 3 ft wide. The two panels in the center slide open, which creates nearly 6 ft of open space.
This wider opening is great for people who want easy access to patios, decks, or pools. It also improves natural light and air circulation.
Key Takeaway: Four-panel systems are perfect for anyone who wants to connect their indoor space to their backyard in a big way.
Need expert help with your patio door? Contact Thermal King for a free consultation. We’ll take measurements, explain your choices, and recommend the best option for your home.
Bigger Doors Help Blend Indoor and Outdoor Living
Big openings make your home feel brighter and more open. They give a better view and make gatherings easier. Many people use them to connect living areas with decks or backyards.
Why Replacing a Patio Door is Worth It
Modern patio doors aren’t just bigger. They’re also built to be more secure, more efficient, and easier to use. Replacing an old 5 ft sliding door with a new system can improve both comfort and style.
In Summary
The standard size of a patio door usually refers to width or height, but the actual measurements change by manufacturer. Custom-built doors solve that problem by giving you a door that matches your opening exactly.
Contact Thermal King today to get your free quote. Our team will help you pick the right size and install a patio door that’s secure, efficient, and built to last.
