Ordering a Custom Door: What to Tell Your Manufacturer

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A clear custom door order specifications request includes exact opening dimensions, the intended use and location of the door, preferred material and finish, and any opening direction or hardware requirements. Sending photos and a sketch alongside these details lets the manufacturer prepare an accurate drawing and quote. The more complete your request, the fewer changes you will need later.

Start with Accurate Opening Measurements

The most important part of any door order is the opening itself. Measure the width and height at three points each, since walls are rarely perfectly straight or level. Note the thickness of the wall and whether the frame will sit inside the opening or cover it.

Clear opening width at top, middle and bottom
Clear opening height at left, center and right
Wall thickness and finished floor level

Share these numbers as written measurements, and add the date and who took them.

Describe the Door's Purpose and Location

Tell the manufacturer where the door will be installed and how it will be used. An entrance door, a service door, a garden door and a security door each have different needs for strength, weather resistance and locking. Mention whether the door faces the street, a courtyard or the inside of a building, since exposure to sun and rain affects the choice of finish.

Also describe how often the door will be opened, and whether children, pets or heavy equipment will pass through it.

Choose Material, Design and Finish

Iron offers strength and a traditional look, while aluminum is lighter and well suited to modern designs. Specify the material, the pattern or profile you prefer, and whether you want solid panels, glass inserts or open grillwork. Photos of designs you like are very helpful.

Finish options to mention

Indicate the color, the surface treatment such as hot-dip galvanizing or powder coating, and any special requirements for salt air or high humidity.

Specify Opening Direction and Hardware

Describe how the door should open: inward or outward, to the left or to the right, or as a sliding or folding unit. Looking at the door from the outside is the usual reference point, so state which side the hinges should be on. Include the locks, handles, closers and any intercom or access control you plan to use.

If the door must match an existing lock or security system, bring that information along.

Add Site Details and Installation Notes

Mention the floor type, whether the threshold must be low for wheelchair access, and whether the wall is brick, concrete or a lightweight partition. Note any obstacles such as electrical boxes, pipes or stairs near the opening. If the door is in an apartment building, check whether building committee approval is required, and let the manufacturer know if the door must follow specific building rules.

Send Photos, Sketches and a Written Summary

A combination of photos, a simple hand sketch and a written summary gives the best starting point. Photograph the opening from the inside and outside, and include a wide shot showing the surrounding wall. Mark the measurements on the sketch.

Photos from inside and outside
A sketch with measurements marked
A list of requirements and preferences

The manufacturer will usually visit the site to confirm measurements before production begins.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to measure the door myself before ordering?

You can, and it is helpful to take your own measurements as a reference. However, the manufacturer will normally verify everything on site before production starts.

Should I choose iron or aluminum for my door?

Iron suits a classic look and high strength, while aluminum is lighter and fits modern styles well. Your location, exposure to weather and design taste should guide the decision.

What if I am not sure which opening direction I want?

Describe how you expect to use the door and how much space is available on each side. The manufacturer can recommend the most practical option during the planning stage.

Can I add glass or decorative panels to a custom door?

Yes, many custom doors can include glass inserts or decorative panels. Mention the type, placement and any privacy or safety needs when you submit your request.

Common mistakes to avoid

The most common error is sending a single measurement instead of several readings across the opening, which can cause fitting problems. Forgetting to mention opening direction or hardware also leads to costly changes after production has started.

Our recommendation

Before sending your request, write down every requirement in one list and attach photos and a sketch. Confirm the final measurements with the manufacturer on site before approving the drawing.

Summary

A complete request with accurate measurements, purpose, material, finish, opening direction and site details helps your custom door come out right the first time.

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