Measuring correctly is crucial for a proper basement door installation, focusing on the dimensions of the existing areaway foundation where the door will be placed.
To accurately measure for a basement door, you need to take specific width and length measurements of the areaway foundation. Based on the provided reference, the key steps involve measuring both inside and outside dimensions and checking for variations.
Key Measurements for the Basement Door Areaway
Measuring the foundation areaway ensures the door unit you purchase will fit the existing structure. The reference highlights the importance of checking dimensions at multiple points.
Width Measurements
Measure the width of the foundation's sloped sidewalls.
- W1: Measure the inside width.
- W2: Measure the outside width.
Important Note: Foundation walls may not be uniformly spaced. It is essential to check these width dimensions at several points along the length of the areaway. Record the narrowest dimension found for both W1 and W2, as this will be the limiting factor for your door size.
Length Measurements
Measure the length of the areaway foundation.
- L1: Measure the inside length.
- L2: Measure the outside length.
These length measurements help determine the overall footprint the door system needs to cover or fit within.
Summary of Measurements
Here's a simple table summarizing the dimensions to measure:
| Dimension | Description | Location | Points to Check |
|---|---|---|---|
| W1 | Inside Width of Sidewalls | Foundation Wall | Several points |
| W2 | Outside Width of Sidewalls | Foundation Wall | Several points |
| L1 | Inside Length of Areaway | Areaway | At least once |
| L2 | Outside Length of Areaway | Areaway | At least once |
By carefully taking these measurements, especially noting the narrowest points for the widths, you can ensure that the basement door system fits the existing foundation areaway correctly. This process is vital for selecting or ordering a door that will install properly and provide a weather-tight seal.
