Upgrading to 8-foot doors can transform the look and feel of your home. But are taller doors worth the extra investment? This in-depth guide examines the pros, cons, costs and considerations of installing 8-foot interior and exterior doors.
What are 8 Foot Doors?
- 8-foot doors are interior or exterior doors that are 96 inches (8 feet) tall.
- This is taller than the standard 80-inch (6 foot 8 inch) door height.
- They have the same width options as standard doors – 24, 28, 30, 32, 36 inches etc.
- 8-foot doors range from interior doors to front entry doors.
- They come in different materials like wood, steel, fibreglass, vinyl, etc.
Benefits of 8-Foot Doors
1. Dramatic Curb Appeal
- Tall front doors make a bold first impression.
- They convey grandeur and importance.
- 8-foot entry doors can instantly boost your home’s curb appeal.
- They create distinction from neighbours with standard doors.
2. Flood Interior Rooms with Light
- 8-foot doors allow for larger lites (window panes).
- This lets in more natural light.
- It is especially beneficial for dark hallways and interiors.
3. Open Up Space Visually
- Rooms feel larger, taller and more expansive.
- High doors draw eyes upwards, expanding space perception.
- Creates a light, airy and free-flowing interior ambience.
4. Complement High Ceilings
- Perfect for homes with 9 to 12-foot ceiling heights.
- Balances proportions and brings visual harmony.
- Standard doors can seem undersized and out of place.
5. Accommodate Tall People
- The added height is comfortable for taller residents and guests.
- No more stooping, crouching or bumping your head!
6. Increase Home Value
- 8-foot doors are a luxury upgrade.
- They boost your home’s resale value.
- This is especially beneficial for upscale real estate markets.
Considerations for 8-foot Doors
Assessment
- Assess your ceiling height, wall space and current doors.
- Ensure room for a taller door before installing.
- Consider getting input from the original architect or builder.
Design Flow
- Ensure 8-footers blend with your home’s style.
- Mixing with standard doors can seem disjointed.
- Consider upgrading doors throughout for a cohesive look.
Placement
- Best for ground floor entries and main living areas.
- It can seem awkward on upper levels with shorter ceilings.
- Limit to rooms with 9-foot ceilings or higher.
Existing Elements
- Account for existing doors, lighting, trim, transoms etc.
- You may need to reframe the door entry and alter adjacent elements.
Budget
- 8-foot doors cost more than standard doors.
- It can be 10-50% higher, depending on the material.
- Factor in potential costs to modify surrounding areas.
Cost of 8 Foot Doors
Here are the average price ranges for 8-foot doors:
- Interior Doors – $400 to $1800
- Exterior Doors – $800 to $5000
- Installation – $200 to $1000
The price depends on:
- Door material – wood, steel, fibreglass etc.
- Quality and thickness
- Design intricacy
- Size of the door
- Customization and special features
- Contractor rates in your area
8 Foot Interior Doors
Interior doors can set the tone for your home’s style and flow. Here is a comparison of popular 8-foot interior door materials:
Wood
- Natural aesthetic, available in various wood types
- Can be painted or stained
- The most expensive option, the cost ranges from $800 – $1800
Steel
- Durable and energy-efficient
- Typically comes with wood veneer facing
- An affordable option, the cost ranges from $400 – $900
Fiberglass
- Low maintenance, resists moisture and warping
- Mimics wood looks at lower cost
- Price ranges from $550 – $1500
Vinyl
- Budget-friendly choice
- Consistent colour through the door
- Price ranges from $450 – $900
8 Foot Exterior Doors
Your front door makes a key first impression. Here are the top options for 8-foot exterior doors:
Wood
- Timeless, classic appeal
- Stain or paint to match the home exterior
- Highest cost from $1800 – $5000
Fiberglass
- Appearance and feel of wood
- More affordable than real wood
- Price ranges from $1200 – $4000
Steel
- Very durable and secure
- Low maintenance
- Cost-effective option $800 – $2000
PVC/Vinyl
- Never needs painting
- Resists moisture damage
- Cost ranges from $900 – $2500
8 Foot Door Considerations
Framing and Rough Opening
- Measure carefully to size the rough opening.
- We may need to modify the frame height and width.
- Account for jamb depth.
Clearance
- Ensure adequate space for the swing direction.
- At least 18 inches for inswing.
- Thirty-six inches or more for outswing.
Trimming
- Add wide vertical trim boards around the jamb.
- Gives the illusion of extra height.
- Frames the tall door elegantly.
Transom Windows
- Small horizontal windows were installed above the door.
- Allow more light into entryways.
- Visually extend the door height.
Door Knobs and Hardware
- Placement should align with standard interior doors.
- Put knobs at the same height for cohesive flow.
- Use heavy-duty hardware to withstand the weight.
Weight Considerations
- Heavier than standard doors.
- Ensure hinges, jambs, and frames can bear the load.
- You may need heavy-duty tracks for pocket doors.
8-Foot Exterior Door Buying Guide
Follow this checklist when shopping for 8-foot exterior doors:
- Choose a durable and sturdy material like wood, steel or fibreglass. Account for your climate.
- Select a high-quality thick door construction, ideally 1 3/4 inches or more.
- Look for advanced insulating features to enhance energy efficiency.
- Make sure the style matches your home’s exterior aesthetic.
- Customize the door design, glass, colour and hardware.
- Buy the highest quality door your budget allows. This is a lifetime investment.
- Work with an experienced door installation contractor.
- Ask about warranties from the manufacturer and installer.
How to Measure for 8 Foot Doors
Follow these steps to measure correctly before ordering 8-foot doors:
1. Measure the Door Opening Width
- Measure across the top, middle and bottom of the frame.
- Use the narrowest dimension.
- Standard widths are 24″, 28″, 30″, 32″ and 36″.
2. Measure Door Opening Height
- Measure from the floor to the top of the frame on both sides.
- Use the shortest measurement.
- This is your rough opening height.
3. Determine Jamb Depth
- Measure the thickness of existing jambs if replacing a door.
- Typical jamb depth is 4 1/2″ to 6″.
4. Allow Gap
- Allow a 1/2″ to 3/4″ gap between the door edge and jamb.
- This allows space to open and close freely.
5. Order Correct Size
- Order a door that is 1/2″ to 3/4″ smaller than the rough opening.
- Example: For a 96″ opening, order a 95 1/4″ door.
How to Frame for 8-Foot Doors
Follow these tips to frame the rough opening properly:
- Use 2×6 or larger lumber for added strength.
- For exterior doors, use insulated headers.
- Measure carefully and allow clearance for shims.
- Ensure the studs are perfectly plumb and square.
- Account for floor slope by making the bottom plate taller.
- Construct the weatherproofing system before door installation.
How Much Space is Needed for 8-Foot Doors?
Here are the typical space requirements:
- Inswing: A minimum of 18 inches from door edge to wall is needed.
- Outswing: 36 inches or more ideal for full door swing.
- Pocket doors: Wall cavity depth of at least 4 inches wider than the door.
- Bi-fold/Bypass doors: Minimum door width plus 3 inches.
Remember to account for trim, moulding and handles that add to the clearance needed.
8 Foot Door Design Ideas
Here are some great ways to utilize 8-foot doors in home decor:
Complement with Tall Trim
Add wide vertical trim boards around the jambs to draw the eye upward.
Include Sidelights or Transom
flanking side windows and horizontal transom windows to boost height.
Carved Wood Doors
Elaborate hand-carved wood doors make a dramatic, natural statement.
Vibrant Hues
Colourful doors enliven home exteriors. Try bold reds, blues, greens or yellows.
Double Doors
Using two tall doors multiplies the grandeur. Great for front entries.
Archways
Top with a rounded Roman arch or Gothic arch for classic elegance.
Glass Designs
Showcase beautiful stained glass, metalwork or carvings.
Dutch Door Style
A split Dutch door allows the top and bottom to operate independently.
8-Foot Door Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Create a grand entrance | Higher cost for door and modifications |
| Lighten and expand rooms | Require high ceilings (9’+) |
| Accommodate tall people | More complex installation |
| Complement high ceilings | Potential weight and structural issues |
| Increase home value | Limited placement options |
| Abundant design options |
Is Woodworking a Good Way to Build Custom 8-Foot Doors for a Lower Cost?
Woodworking can indeed be a cost-effective way to build custom 8-foot doors. While the real cost of woodworking involves time and skill, the materials for creating larger doors can often be more affordable compared to purchasing pre-made ones. Plus, the end result is a unique, high-quality product.
Should You Install 8-Foot Doors?
Ultimately, the choice comes from your budget, ceiling height, and personal style preferences.
With soaring 9-foot ceilings or higher, 8-foot doors can be gorgeous. They instil a sense of grandeur and expansive space. Plus, they accommodate tall residents or guests.
However, if you have standard 8-foot ceilings, an 8-foot door may seem awkwardly tall and disproportionate. The cost is also substantially higher than standard 80-inch doors.
For the best flow, use 8-footers consistently throughout the main living areas. Mixing standard and taller doors can seem disjointed.
Carefully measure existing openings and assess your home’s structure before deciding. But for many homes, going tall with 8-foot doors can be a worthwhile investment that instantly elevates the interior design.
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I'm James Davis, a carpenter with eight years of experience in carpentry services, repairs, installations, renovations, and maintenance of interior doors. I have a diploma in carpentry and joiner trade from the Education Skills Australia Institute and take pride in delivering high-quality results to ensure customer satisfaction. I'm a blog writer for Octopus Doors Company and enjoy sharing my knowledge and tips on maintaining security measures and choosing the right door materials, paints, or handle styles. I specialize in custom-made interior doors and strive to make every home look fabulous. Contact me anytime for help with door-related issues.