So you've found the perfect piece of urban outdoor furniture for your balcony or patio. Before you finalize the purchase, a crucial question arises: will it fit through your apartment door? A little pre-delivery planning can save you from major headaches. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide.
First, become a measurement expert. Grab a tape measure. You need two key dimensions: the furniture's smallest critical measurement and your door's clear passage.
1. Measure the Furniture: Don't just look at the product's length and width. Identify its bulkiest part. For a sofa, it's often the diagonal depth of the frame (from the top back corner to the bottom front corner). For a table, it's the diagonal width or the height if it's tall. Note down this smallest "critical dimension."
2. Measure Your Doorway: Measure the height and width of your apartment's main entry door from the inside of the frame (the smallest opening). Now, measure the diagonal of the doorway. Sometimes, tilting a piece diagonally provides more clearance than trying to move it straight through. Don't forget to account for door handles and hinges that protrude.
Next, compare your numbers. Your furniture's critical dimension must be smaller than your doorway's smallest opening (height, width, or diagonal). Always add a buffer of at least 2-3 inches for maneuvering.
Pro Tips for Success:
* Ask the Retailer: Before buying, contact the seller for the item's "packaged dimensions" and assembly requirements. Sometimes furniture arrives disassembled, which solves the problem entirely.
* Consider the Path: Map the entire route from the building entrance to your final spot. Check tight corners, stairwells, and elevator dimensions.
* Have a Plan B: If it's a tight fit, be prepared. Removable legs, cushions, or doors (if possible) can make all the difference. Having helpers is essential for tricky maneuvers.
Taking these simple steps ensures your new urban oasis piece arrives smoothly, saving you time, stress, and potential return fees. Measure twice, deliver once