What are the standard dimensions for a Bilco basement door?

Bilco manufactures cellar door units in a range of standard sizes to fit different staircase widths and foundation opening dimensions. The most common residential units have clear opening widths of 45 to 55 inches and rise heights of 16 to 42 inches, measured from the top of the concrete collar to the door panel edge.

The Bilco Type B series, which is the standard angled model for most NJ homes, comes in three standard sizes with rough opening widths of 45, 48, and 55 inches. Custom sizes are available for non-standard applications.

If your goal is to meet IRC egress requirements, the minimum useful opening dimensions are 32 inches clear width by 78 inches clear height at the bottom of the staircase. Not all standard Bilco sizes achieve egress width without additional foundation wall modification.

Scaldino Basement Solutions will measure your existing opening or staircase and recommend the Bilco unit that fits your space and meets your functional requirements. Contact us for a free assessment.