Your Essential Double Steel Door Buying Guide

A 60x96 double steel door is a size description to investigate, not a framing instruction. Before ordering, confirm what the listed dimensions represent, how the two leaves operate, and which frame, glass, hardware and installation details apply to the selected model.

Double doors can create a balanced entrance and offer additional access when the configuration allows both leaves to open. The usable passage, performance and included components depend on the complete assembly.

Understand the Listed Size

Size labels generally use width × height in inches. A 60x96 label describes a five-foot by eight-foot format, but you must confirm whether the listing refers to nominal dimensions, the leaves or the complete unit.

• Door leaves: the moving panels.
• Outside frame dimensions: the complete frame assembly dimensions on the drawing.
• Rough opening: the structural opening required for that assembly and its specified installation clearances.
• Clear opening: the usable passage with the door in the intended open position.

Do not divide the listed width by two to establish each leaf’s exact size or clear passage. Do not use a generic rough-opening size or add a universal clearance allowance. Obtain the dimensions for the exact unit and have the installer verify them before framing or ordering. See the steel-door sizes guide.

Record the Opening and Wall Conditions

Label each opening and record all measurements with units and the date. Identify whether you measured a rough opening, finished opening, existing frame or old door leaf.

1. Record widths at the top, middle and bottom.
2. Record heights at multiple points and identify the starting surface, including planned floor build-up.
3. Record both diagonals and have the installer check the opening geometry against the selected system’s requirements.
4. Document wall depth, interior finishes, exterior cladding, and threshold and landing conditions.
5. Provide a sketch and photographs showing the measurement locations and surrounding space.

Keep all readings for review; the smallest measurement alone does not establish the correct fabrication size or confirm that an opening is acceptable. Review the jamb-depth guide and threshold and sill guide.

Confirm How Both Leaves Operate

The active leaf is generally the panel used for everyday entry. The inactive leaf may be secured by flush bolts or another specified arrangement. Confirm the actual hardware and operating sequence for your model.

Ask how the leaves meet, where the strike is located, whether an astragal or other center component is present, and how that affects the usable opening. Do not assume every double door provides a completely unobstructed passage or has the same center detail.

Show the viewing side, hinge locations, inswing or outswing, and active leaf on a drawing. Check the swing against walls, steps, furniture, lighting and surrounding finishes. Use the handing guide and double-door hardware guide to coordinate these choices.

Compare Glass, Construction and Performance

Choose the lite pattern, privacy effect and finish in the context of the whole elevation. Confirm which glass and finish options are available for the exact series; customization is not unlimited.

Ask for model-specific material, frame, glazing, coating and thermal information. Do not assume every architectural steel-and-glass door has a foam core, Low-E glazing, a thermal break or the same corrosion protection.

Security, fire, weather and energy claims require applicable documentation for the selected configuration. Steel construction, tempered glass or a particular lock type does not by itself establish all of those performance characteristics. Review Steel Door Technical Resources with your project team and confirm which documents apply to your order.

For commercial, public or specialized applications, have the design team confirm suitability, clear opening, hardware and any required ratings before selecting a residential-style door. A size label alone does not establish suitability for a school, hospital, warehouse or equipment route.

Check Hardware and Included Components

Request a written list of what is supplied. Confirm the frame, hinges, threshold, sweeps, seals, glass, handles, locks, inactive-leaf hardware and installation components individually. Determine whether the unit arrives assembled and what work remains on site.

If you choose third-party handles or locks, provide the exact model numbers and current templates before fabrication. Confirm mounting holes, lock preparation, door thickness, backset, strike and clearance. A smart lock or multi-point lock is not automatically compatible or included. See our hardware preparation guide.

Compare the Complete Cost and Delivery Plan

Compare quotes for the same configuration and scope. Ask whether the price includes selected glass, finish, hardware, freight and any additional components. Account separately for installation, opening modifications, flashing and finish repairs where applicable.

Confirm current inventory or production timing for the selected configuration. Ask for the estimated dispatch date and delivery timing to your location rather than assuming a universal arrival window. Coordinate site access, receiving contact, unloading arrangements, inspection instructions and storage before shipment.

Read the applicable written warranty and return terms before purchase, including conditions for the finish, glass and hardware. Follow the manufacturer’s installation, cleaning and repair instructions rather than generic repainting or lubrication advice.

Prepare Your Order Review

Browse USABD steel doors, then send your project details for review:

• Preferred product link, size and quantity.
• Opening measurements, photographs, wall depth and floor details.
• A drawing identifying the viewing side, swing and active leaf.
• Glass, finish, handles and locks, with templates where applicable.
• Any required performance documentation.
• Project ZIP code, site access and desired installation date.

Confirm the complete unit dimensions, required opening, configuration, included components and current drawing revision before approving the order. Use the new-construction ordering checklist to coordinate the team.

Showroom visits are by appointment only. Call or email through our contact page to schedule a visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What rough opening does a 60x96 double steel door need?

Use the manufacturer’s required rough opening for the exact complete unit. The 60x96 label alone does not provide that dimension.

Are both panels the same width?

Confirm the leaf dimensions on the drawing. Do not calculate them solely from the nominal width.

Does every double door open without a center obstruction?

No universal assumption is appropriate. Confirm the center detail, hardware and clear-opening dimensions with one or both leaves open.

Are handles and locks included?

Inclusions vary by model. Request a component list and verify compatibility before purchasing separate hardware.

Can I reuse my existing frame?

Have the supplier and installer review compatibility. An old door’s slab size does not confirm that a new assembly fits the existing frame or opening.