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If you’re installing residential, commercial or industrial doors, the term "door reveal" is one you must understand. It plays a crucial role in door fitting, frame alignment, and compliance with structural requirements. In this guide, Larnec breaks down what a door reveal is, why it matters, and how to measure it accurately — all in plain, easy to understand terms.
What Is a Door Reveal?
A door reveal refers to the visible part of the door frame or wall opening that is exposed after installation. It is the distance from the inside face of the wall to the edge of the door frame. The reveal affects how the door sits in the wall, its appearance, and how the door hardware aligns.
Why the Door Reveal Matters
Getting the door reveal right is vital for:
- Ensuring a flush finish between the wall and the door frame
- Correct placement of hinges and latches
- Fire safety and acoustic insulation
- Aesthetic appeal and wall alignment
- Matching Australian building codes and standards
Poor reveal sizing can result in gaps, misalignments, and even failed compliance checks.
Door Reveal vs. Door Jamb: Know the Difference
- The door reveal is the space or offset between the finished wall face and the edge of the frame.
- The door jamb is the vertical part of the door frame that the door actually mounts to.
In simple terms: The jamb is the component, and the reveal is the visible space or gap around it.
Types of Door Reveals
Depending on the wall construction, door style, and use case, the reveal can vary. Common types include:
- Flush Reveal: Frame is aligned with the face of the wall.
- Setback Reveal: Frame is recessed, showing part of the wall.
- Exposed Frame Reveal: Frame is fully visible and mounted outside the wall.
Different industrial environments may require different reveal setups, especially where clean lines, fire compliance, or sealing is important.
How to Measure a Door Reveal Correctly
To accurately measure the door reveal:
1. Wait until all finishes (plasterboard, cladding) are applied.
2. Measure from the visible face of the wall to the edge of the door frame.
3. Use a level or laser for best accuracy.
4. Check multiple points — reveals can vary slightly from top to bottom.
This ensures your frames will sit flush and look professional.
Common Door Reveal Sizes (Australia)
At Larnec, door reveals are designed to suit the total wall thickness, which includes framing, linings (e.g., plasterboard or cladding), and any insulation. Common wall thicknesses — and therefore common reveal sizes — include:
-90mm wall thickness – Typical for steel frames and lightweight construction (e.g., internal walls or sheds)
-100mm–120mm wall thickness – Common in modular buildings and insulated panel systems
-150mm+ wall thickness – Used in heavy-duty, double-skin, or acoustic/fire-rated wall constructions
Always check wall build-ups, insulation type, and whether architraves are used.
Reveal Sizes and Door Types
Reveal (wall thickness) requirements vary depending on the door type and installation environment:
- Personal Access Doors: Typically suit 90–120mm wall thicknesses
- Fire Rated Doors: Often require deeper reveals to accommodate fire seals and compliance features
- Industrial Metal Doors: May need setback reveals for external or exposed-frame mounting
- Modular Buildings: Often need custom reveal depths for panel systems
Installation Tips from Larnec
- Always allow for the total wall thickness, not just the structural framing.
- Choose a reveal size that minimises trimming and fitting on site.
- Order pre-hung door systems with correct reveals to save time.
- Talk to your door supplier early if wall specs are still being finalised.