In this guide
Quick answer: as a rule of thumb, size 1 fits interior doors up to 30", size 3 up to 42" and size 6 up to 60". Exterior doors generally move up one size.
Door closer sizes run from 1 (lightest) to 6 (strongest). The number reflects spring strength. Most commercial closers today are adjustable, so one unit can be set to several sizes, but the chart below still tells you where to set it.
The door closer size chart
| Closer size | Interior door width | Exterior door width |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Up to 30" | Not recommended |
| 2 | Up to 36" | Up to 30" |
| 3 | Up to 42" | Up to 36" |
| 4 | Up to 48" | Up to 42" |
| 5 | Up to 54" | Up to 48" |
| 6 | Up to 60" | Up to 54" |
This is a general guide. Always follow the instructions supplied with your closer, as manufacturers' charts differ slightly.
Three adjustments to the chart
Heavy door
If a door is heavier than normal for its width, for example a solid steel or lined door, go up a size. For very heavy doors, see door closers for 400 lb doors.
Parallel arm
A parallel arm usually delivers less closing force than a regular arm because of its geometry. Go up a size or check the manufacturer's chart. Details are in the parallel arm guide.
Wind and pressure
A windy location or a pressurized building calls for more power. See the exterior door closer guide.
How to estimate door weight
Multiply height by width in feet, then multiply by the approximate weight per square foot:
| Door type | Lbs per sq ft (approx.) | 3' × 7' door |
|---|---|---|
| Hollow-core wood | 1.5 to 2 | About 30 to 40 lbs |
| Solid-core wood | 4 to 6 | About 85 to 125 lbs |
| Hollow metal | 5 to 7 | About 105 to 150 lbs |
| Solid steel or iron security door | 10 to 20+ | About 210 to 420+ lbs |
These are estimates. Weigh the door or check the manufacturer's data if the size is close to a limit.
See this adjustable size 1 to 6 closer on Amazon →
How to set an adjustable closer to a size
Most adjustable closers have a power adjustment screw that takes several full turns to change size. Count turns from one end of the range, and do not force it past the stop. Our adjustment guide covers this step by step.
Three worked examples
Interior office door, 36" wide, solid wood
The chart gives size 2. With a regular arm and normal weight, that works. With a parallel arm, go to size 3.
Exterior shop door, 36" wide, hollow metal
The exterior column gives size 3. In a windy location, or with a parallel arm, set it to 4.
Wide accessible entrance, 48" wide, aluminum and glass
Interior it would be size 4. Exterior it would be size 5. Because of ADA force limits on interior doors, start at the lowest setting that reliably latches, and test the force.
Common sizing mistakes
- Measuring the frame instead of the door. Frame openings are larger than the door leaf.
- Going by height. Height matters less than width, since leverage comes from the distance to the hinge.
- Leaving the factory setting. Many adjustable closers come at a mid setting and will not suit your door without adjustment.
- Treating "stronger" as "better". An oversized setting makes a door hard to open and shortens the closer's life.
- Ignoring the door bottom. A dragging sweep or threshold can look like a sizing problem.
What if your door is between sizes?
With an adjustable closer, start at the lower setting and add power only if the door does not latch. The best setting is the lowest that closes and latches the door reliably, in all the weather you expect. With a non-adjustable closer, buy the size up, then fine-tune speed with the valves.
Where the door weight rating fits in
Some closers quote a door weight and width range rather than a size chart. The DN-8220, for example, is listed for doors from 44 to 440 lbs and 23" to 59" wide. That tells you the outer limits of what it can handle. You still have to set the spring power to suit your door inside that range. Reaching the top of both ranges at once calls for extra care, so read the 400 lb door guide if you are anywhere near those numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What size door closer do I need for a 36 inch door?
What does size 1-6 mean on a door closer?
Can a door closer be too big?
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