The rough opening for a door framed with metal studs should be wider than the door by what distance?

The rough opening for a door framed with metal studs should be wider than the door by what distance?

• A. 3/4 inch
• B. 3/4 to 1 1/2 inches
• C. 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 inches
• D. 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches

Answer: (D)

A rough opening must be larger than the door to allow for the jamb, shims, hardware, and adjustments needed to plumb and square the door frame. When framing with metal studs, you leave a bit more clearance because the metal framing and jamb assembly require room to be accurately installed and fastened, and to accommodate trim and weatherstripping later. That extra space typically falls in the range of 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches wider than the door itself. So, for a standard door, the rough opening should be about 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches wider than the door. The other options don’t provide enough clearance for proper installation and hardware.

A rough opening must be larger than the door to allow for the jamb, shims, hardware, and adjustments needed to plumb and square the door frame. When framing with metal studs, you leave a bit more clearance because the metal framing and jamb assembly require room to be accurately installed and fastened, and to accommodate trim and weatherstripping later. That extra space typically falls in the range of 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches wider than the door itself. So, for a standard door, the rough opening should be about 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 inches wider than the door. The other options don’t provide enough clearance for proper installation and hardware.