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The recommended height to install an awning above a door is between 8 and 9 feet. This allows sufficient clearance for most people to walk under without hitting their heads. The exact height will depend on the door height and style of awning.
When installing an awning above an exterior door, one of the most important considerations is determining the optimal height. The awning needs to be high enough to provide head clearance for anyone walking under it, but not so high that it looks out of proportion with the door and home. Finding the right balance requires taking into account both functional and aesthetic factors. This article will provide guidelines on recommended awning heights, discuss the factors that impact the ideal height, and offer tips for installing awnings at the proper elevation.
Standard Door Dimensions
In order to determine the appropriate awning height, you first need to know the height of the door. Residential exterior doors typically fall within a standard range of sizes:
| Door Type | Standard Height |
|---|---|
| Entry door | 80 inches (6’8″) |
| French door | 80 inches (6’8″) |
| Bifold door | 80 inches (6’8″) |
| Sliding door | 80 inches (6’8″) |
The most common residential entry door size is 80 inches, or 6 feet 8 inches. This provides comfortable passage for most people. If your door height differs significantly from the standard 80 inches, this will impact the ideal awning height.
Recommended Awning Height
Most experts recommend installing awnings approximately 8 to 9 feet above the door. Here are some guidelines:
– For standard 80″ entry doors, mount the awning 8’6″ to 9′ above the threshold. This allows at least 6’4” of clearance.
– If the door is taller than 80”, add the additional door height to the 8’6” minimum. For example, if the door is 84” tall, mount the awning at least 9’ above the threshold.
– For shorter doors, you can potentially reduce the height slightly, but no lower than 8 feet.
– The maximum overhang size may restrict how low you can install the awning. Larger awnings require more height to accommodate the projection.
– Consider the typical height of people using the door and mount the awning high enough to clear their heads.
– Local building codes may dictate minimum awning heights, which must be followed. Many areas require at least 80 inches of clearance.
The goal is to position the awning high enough so that most people can comfortably pass under it without ducking or hitting their heads. The 8 to 9 foot range achieves this for standard doors while allowing the awning to still provide adequate shelter.
Factors That Impact Awning Height
In addition to the door size, several other factors may influence the optimal installation height:
Awning Style
Some awning styles sit closer to the door than others:
– Fixed awnings are usually mounted higher since they do not retract.
– Retractable awnings can be positioned slightly lower as long as they clear the door when extended.
– Awnings with a sharply angled pitch need more height. Those with gently sloped profiles can be a bit lower.
Awning Size
The projection and width of the awning affects the mounting height:
– Larger awnings need to be installed higher to accommodate the overhang.
– Awnings extending 4-6 feet from the house require more height than those with shorter projections.
– For wide awnings, factor in the height at both the low and high ends to ensure sufficient headroom.
Amount of Traffic
Entry doors that accommodate high volumes of foot traffic should have awnings installed at the higher end of the range. This reduces the risk of collisions. Doors mainly used by family and occasional guests can potentially have lower awnings.
Weather Factors
In climates prone to heavy snowfall, position awnings higher to allow space for snow to accumulate on top without blocking the entrance. Similarly, allow extra height in locations vulnerable to ice dams on the roof.
Aesthetic Considerations
In addition to the functional factors above, also consider visual aesthetics when determining awning height:
– Mount the awning high enough that it does not crowd or overwhelm the door visually.
– Avoid mounting the awning so high that it looks disproportionately small relative to the door.
– Position the awning close enough to the door so it has a visual relationship, but not so close that it traps heat and humidity.
– For homes with tall doors or high ceilings, make sure the awning height complements the proportions of the architecture.
The ideal height provides both adequate clearance and an attractive look in relation to the entryway.
Installing the Awning
Once you determine the optimal height, follow these tips for installation:
– Mark the selected height on the wall using a chalk line or laser level. This serves as a guide when mounting the brackets.
– Use a ladder or lift to access the installation area. Make sure the base sits on firm, level ground.
– Fasten the brackets securely into wall studs or use hollow wall anchors. Follow the manufacturer’s specifications.
– Check that the awning framework is completely level. Use shims if necessary to prevent sagging.
– If possible, have someone assist by providing support when lifting the awning into place.
– Retractable awnings require installing a pulley and operating mechanism. Make sure these engage properly.
– Adjust support arms on fixed awnings so the framework fits tightly against the house.
– Test that the awning functions properly, retracts easily, and provides the intended shade coverage.
Conclusion
Installing an awning approximately 8 to 9 feet above an exterior door provides comfortable clearance for most people walking underneath. Factors like the door dimensions, awning style, and local weather conditions may impact the ideal height. Take both functional considerations and visual aesthetics into account when deciding on the right mounting elevation. With proper installation at the optimal height, an entryway awning will enhance the home’s curb appeal while providing welcome shade and shelter.