15 cmComfortable clearance
Doorway & clearance
02 Doorway Check
Measure the usable opening.
A browser-only tool that compares door width, wheelchair width, and safety clearance to show whether a passage is comfortable or tight. Nothing is saved or sent anywhere.
Tool introduction
What this tool does
The Doorway Check takes three numbers — the door width, the wheelchair (or walker) width, and a safety clearance per side — and instantly tells you the available clearance in centimetres. It flags whether the opening is "Comfortable clearance" or a "Narrow passage." This helps you quickly assess whether a door will work for a specific device or whether you need a wider door, a swing-away hinge, or a different approach.
Why clear width matters
A door is experienced as usable space, not as the size printed on a product label. The clear opening is the space between the open door leaf and the stop on the opposite side. Hinges, door closers, weatherstripping, and the angle at which a person approaches can all reduce the practical width. A door that meets a minimum standard on paper may still feel tight for a large chair, a person who needs elbow room, or someone pushing a chair at an angle.
Clearance is more than a number
The safety clearance per side accounts for hands, knuckles, and the natural wobble of movement. Even if the chair physically fits, a passage with no margin can cause scraped knuckles, damaged door frames, or anxiety about passing through. The tool gives you a way to talk about that margin with contractors or family members.
How to use
- 01
Measure the door width
Open the door fully and measure the clear space between the open door leaf and the stop on the opposite side. This is the clear opening width, which is often smaller than the nominal door size. Enter the value in centimetres in the "Door width" field.
- 02
Measure the wheelchair or device width
Measure the widest part of the wheelchair, walker, or scooter — including hands, armrests, and any accessories. Enter the value in centimetres in the "Wheelchair width" field.
- 03
Set the safety clearance
Enter a comfortable safety margin per side in centimetres (the default is 7.5 cm). This accounts for hands, steering variation, and the need to avoid scraping the door frame. Adjust it based on the user’s comfort and the conditions of the route.
- 04
Read the result
The calculator subtracts the wheelchair width from the door width and shows the remaining clearance. If the clearance is at least twice the safety value (both sides combined), it reports "Comfortable clearance." Otherwise, it warns of a "Narrow passage."
- 05
Plan improvements if needed
If the result shows a narrow passage, consider options such as a wider door, swing-away or offset hinges, removing the door and using a pocket door, changing the approach angle, or clearing obstructions near the opening. A professional can help you decide what is practical for your space.
Frequently asked questions
What is "clear width" and why is it different from the door size?
Clear width is the actual usable opening when the door is fully open. It is measured from the face of the open door leaf to the stop on the other side. A standard 80 cm door may have a clear width of only 75–78 cm because of the door leaf thickness, hinges, and stops. Always measure the clear opening, not the nominal door size.
What safety clearance should I use?
A common guideline is 5–10 cm per side, but the right value depends on the user, the device, and the context. Someone who is very confident may need less; a person learning to use a chair, or someone with limited hand control, may need more. Start with 7.5 cm per side and adjust based on real experience.
Can I use this for a walker or scooter?
Yes. Enter the widest part of any mobility device in the "Wheelchair width" field. Walkers, rollators, and scooters all have different widths, so measure the actual device including accessories.
The result says "Comfortable" but the door still feels tight. Why?
The calculator checks width only. Other factors — the approach angle, a door closer, a threshold lip, a step, or a hallway that forces a turn immediately after the door — can make a wide opening feel difficult. Walk the route with the device and observe what happens at the door, not just the width.
Does this tool check compliance with accessibility codes?
No. The tool provides a practical measurement check. Accessibility codes specify minimum clear widths, approach types, hardware, and other details that vary by jurisdiction and building type. For code compliance, consult your local building authority or a qualified professional.
Is my data stored anywhere?
No. The calculation happens entirely in your browser. Nothing is uploaded, saved, or shared. If you leave the page, the values are gone.