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How heavy should a doorstop be?

2 min readBy JimFrom our Sussex workshop

If you’ve ever looked for a doorstop, you’ll know they come in all shapes and sizes. But the big question is: how heavy should a doorstop be to actually work? The answer depends on the size of your door, how windy your home or garden is, and whether you want something purely practical or something that looks good too.

Why weight matters in a doorstop

A doorstop works by using its own weight to resist movement. Too light, and the door will simply push it out of the way. Too heavy, and it can be awkward to move around. The right balance is key.

Choosing the right size and weight

At Oceanic Woodstore, we make solid oak doorstops in three sizes. Because oak is naturally dense, each one has enough weight to hold doors securely without being difficult to handle.

Table Comparing Small, medium and large oak doorstops side by side showing 20cm, 30cm and 40cm sizes

Doorstop SizeApprox. WeightBest For
Small (20cm)~4kgStandard interior doors, light back doors
Medium (30cm)~6kgLarger doors, French doors, some patio doors
Large (40cm)~8kgHeavy patio doors, wide openings, windy gardens

Factors to consider

  • Door size – bigger doors need a heavier doorstop.
  • Location – patio doors and garden doors face more wind, so go heavier.
  • Ease of use – if you’ll move the doorstop often, you may prefer a medium size.

Why oak makes the difference

Unlike lightweight plastic or rubber stoppers, oak has the natural density needed to resist movement. A heavy oak doorstop isn’t just functional—it also adds character to your home. Whether indoors or outdoors, it blends in without looking like an afterthought.

Final thought

So, how heavy should a doorstop be? For interior doors, 4kg is usually enough. For French doors and larger openings, 6kg is ideal. For big patio doors and windy gardens, go for at least 8kg. A solid oak doorstop gives you the strength, weight, and durability you need—without sacrificing style.

Browse our oak doorstops UK →

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