Finding the perfect piece of urban outdoor furniture is exciting, but the dreaded question remains: will it fit through my apartment door? A smooth delivery hinges on precise planning. Follow this simple guide to avoid last-minute surprises.
First, become a measurement expert. You need two key dimensions: your furniture's and your door's. For the furniture, note its width, depth, and height. For irregular shapes, identify the widest and tallest points. Crucially, measure the diagonal depth of sofas or chairs, as this is often how they are angled through doorways.
Next, measure your entryway. Record the height and width of your apartment door frame from the inside. Don't forget to measure the hallway width leading to the door and note any tight turns or obstructions like light fixtures or railings. Compare these figures directly with your furniture's dimensions. The furniture's smallest critical dimension must be smaller than your door's smallest opening.
Remember the maneuvering factor. A piece with exactly the same width as the door opening will not fit. You need a clearance of at least 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) on all sides for tilting and angling. For sofas, the diagonal depth is key. If disassembly is an option, such as removing legs or cushions, confirm this with the retailer beforehand.
When in doubt, communicate. Share your precise door measurements with the furniture seller before purchasing. They can often confirm feasibility based on their product's build and common delivery experiences. A few minutes of careful measuring can save you hours of hassle and ensure your new urban oasis awaits you right outside your door.