If you’re thinking about installing a new garage door or replacing an old one, you’ve probably encountered the term garage door sizes. Choosing the right garage door size is super important for making sure it fits your garage space and meets your needs. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about garage door sizes, from the basics to interesting facts. Let’s get started!
What Are Garage Door Sizes?
Garage door sizes refer to the door measurements that will cover your garage’s opening. These measurements are usually given in width and height. Standard garage doors come in various sizes, making it easier to find the right fit for different types of garages. However, not all garages are the same size, so understanding the common options for garage door sizes can help you find the best one for your home.
Why Garage Door Sizes Matter
Choosing the correct garage door size is essential for a few reasons. First, the door must cover the entire opening to keep your garage secure and insulated. Second, the garage door size can affect how much room you have inside for parking, storage, and moving around. If you have a car, truck, or even an SUV, you’ll want to make sure your garage door is large enough to allow it to pass through comfortably.
Common Garage Door Sizes for Different Garages
Most garage doors come in standard sizes, but they can vary based on whether you have a single-car garage, a double-car garage, or a custom-sized garage. Here are some of the most common garage door sizes you might find:
- Single-Car Garage Door: This type of garage door is typically 8 or 9 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet tall. It’s perfect for smaller garages that only need to fit one car.
- Double-Car Garage Door: Doors for two-car garages are usually around 16 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet tall. This size provides enough space for two standard cars to enter and exit comfortably.
- RV Garage Door: If you own an RV, camper, or a taller vehicle, you might need a garage door that’s 10 to 14 feet tall. RV garage doors are often custom-made to fit the height of larger vehicles.
Standard Garage Door Sizes
Most garage doors in the United States are made in standard sizes. Here are a few of the most popular standard garage door sizes you can find:
- 8 x 7 feet: Common for single-car garages, this is often the smallest standard size.
- 9 x 7 feet: A slightly wider option for single-car garages, offering more room for larger vehicles.
- 16 x 7 feet: A popular size for double-car garages, offering enough width for two cars.
- 18 x 8 feet: A larger double-car garage door size that provides even more space for wide or larger vehicles.
These standard sizes make it easy to find a door that will fit most garages. However, if your garage opening is a different size, you might need a custom garage door.
Custom Garage Door Sizes
Sometimes, the standard sizes just don’t fit. Custom garage doors can be designed to fit almost any size for unusual garage spaces or unique needs. This option is great for homeowners with a non-standard garage size or wanting a unique look. Custom garage doors can be made wider, taller, or even shaped differently to match the specific design of your garage.
How to Measure Your Garage for the Right Size
If you plan to buy a new garage door, measuring your garage opening is an important first step. Here’s how you can do it:
- Measure the Width: Use a tape measure to find the width of the opening from one side to the other. Make sure to measure at the widest part.
- Measure the Height: Measure from the top of the opening down to the ground. This will give you the height.
- Check the Headroom: The Headroom is the space between the top of the garage opening and the ceiling. Most garage doors need at least a few inches of headroom for the opening mechanism.
- Measure the Side Room: This is the space on each side of the garage door opening. Some doors need extra space here, especially if they have a track system.
Having accurate measurements will help you choose the correct garage door size and make installation easier.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Vehicle
The size of your vehicle plays a big role in determining the garage door size you need. Here’s a quick guide for common vehicles:
- Small Cars: Most small cars can fit comfortably through a standard single-car garage door about 8 or 9 feet wide.
- SUVs and Trucks: Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks often need a garage door at least 9 feet wide. If you have a double-car garage, ensure the door width is at least 16 feet.
- RVs and Campers: For these tall vehicles, a custom garage door 10 to 14 feet high is usually necessary.
Interesting Facts About Garage Door Sizes
Did you know these fun facts about garage door sizes?
- First Standard Sizes: Garage door sizes started to become standardized in the early 20th century when car ownership became common. This made it easier for companies to manufacture doors that fit most homes.
- Bigger Garages, Bigger Doors: As cars have grown larger, garage doors have also increased. Many homes with large garages today have doors as wide as 18 feet.
- Custom Doors for Special Purposes: Some garages are used for more than just cars. Homeowners who want to store boats and motorcycles or have a home gym might choose custom garage doors for extra space.
Materials and Styles for Different Garage Door Sizes
Garage doors come in various materials, each with its own pros and cons. Here are a few popular materials and how they work with different garage door sizes:
- Steel: Strong and durable steel doors are commonly used for single and double-car garage doors. They work well with larger sizes since they’re sturdy and don’t warp.
- Wood: Wooden garage doors look beautiful but may require more maintenance, especially for larger doors. Wood is often chosen for custom doors because it can be easily shaped and painted.
- Aluminum and Glass: This style is popular for modern homes and is usually used for smaller, single-car garage doors due to the lighter material.
Tips for Choosing the Right Garage Door Size
Here are a few tips to help you pick the right garage door size for your needs:
- Think About Future Needs: If you want a larger vehicle, consider now choosing a slightly larger garage door. This will save you the trouble of upgrading later.
- Consider Insulation: Consider an insulated door if you use your garage as a workshop or extra room. Insulation doesn’t affect the size, but it can impact the thickness of the door.
- Check Local Building Codes: Some areas have garage door sizes and styles regulations. Check with local authorities before you buy or install a new door.
Final Thoughts on Garage Door Sizes
Garage door sizes might seem like a simple topic, but there’s actually a lot to consider when choosing the right one for your home. From standard sizes to custom options, understanding the measurements can help you make the best choice. Whether you need a single-car garage door or a custom door for an RV, knowing the basics of garage door sizes will make your decision easier.
If you’re unsure about the correct garage door size, talking to a garage door professional is always a good idea. They can help you measure, choose the right door, and ensure it fits perfectly.
In the end, selecting the right garage door size can make a huge difference in the look and function of your garage. So take your time, consider your options, and enjoy your new garage door!
