Welcome to Ask A Pro by MM Garage Door Repair, Utah''ss expert on door sizes, measurements & standards. Whether you’re replacing garage door panels or ordering a new garage door, we’ll demystify industry norms and measurement best practices so you get a perfect fit every time.
🔍 Find out: What sizes do doors come in?
Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we often get asked a lot of questions about garage doors. One of the most common inquiries is about sizing. What sizes do garage doors come in? The answer isn’t always straightforward, as sizes can vary depending on the type of garage, its intended use, and even regional building codes. But don’t worry, we’re here to break it all down for you. This guide will cover standard sizes, factors that influence sizing, and what to consider when choosing the right door for your home. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Standard Garage Door Sizes
When it comes to garage doors, there are some fairly standard sizes that you’ll find in most residential homes. Knowing these common dimensions can help you understand your options and make informed decisions.
Single Car Garage Doors: The most common width for a single car garage door is 8 feet or 9 feet. The standard height is typically 7 feet. So, you’ll often see single car garage doors advertised as 8×7 or 9×7. These sizes are suitable for accommodating a standard-sized vehicle with some room to spare.
Double Car Garage Doors: For garages designed to house two vehicles, the standard width is usually 16 feet. Again, the height remains consistent at 7 feet. Therefore, a typical double car garage door is 16×7. This provides ample space for two cars to park comfortably side-by-side.
Other Common Heights: While 7 feet is the most common height, you might also find garage doors that are 8 feet tall. This is especially true for homes with taller vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, or for garages with higher ceilings. 8-foot tall doors are becoming increasingly popular to accommodate the larger vehicles on the road today.
SEO Tip: Notice how we’ve used keywords like “single car garage doors,” “double car garage doors,” and “standard garage door sizes” throughout this section? This helps search engines understand the topic and makes it easier for people searching for this information to find our blog!
Factors Influencing Garage Door Size
While standard sizes are a good starting point, several factors can influence the ideal garage door size for your specific needs. Here are some key considerations:
Vehicle Size: This is perhaps the most obvious factor. Consider the size of your current vehicle(s) and any future vehicles you might own. Ensure the garage door opening is wide and tall enough to accommodate them comfortably, with enough clearance for mirrors and antennas.
Garage Usage: Are you only using your garage for parking vehicles? Or do you also use it for storage, a workshop, or other purposes? If you need extra space for storage or projects, you might want to consider a larger garage door.
Building Codes and HOA Regulations: Local building codes and homeowner association (HOA) regulations can sometimes dictate the acceptable garage door sizes in your area. It’s essential to check these regulations before making any decisions.
Garage Door Style: The style of garage door you choose can also impact the available sizes. For example, custom-designed doors might offer more flexibility in terms of dimensions compared to standard sectional doors.
Garage Door Opener: Ensure that the garage door opener you choose is compatible with the size and weight of your new garage door. A heavier or larger door may require a more powerful opener.
Custom Garage Door Sizes
While standard sizes are common, custom garage doors are also an option. If you have unique requirements or a non-standard garage opening, a custom-sized door might be the best solution. Custom doors can be made to virtually any size, allowing you to perfectly match your garage’s dimensions and your specific needs.
Benefits of Custom Sizes:
- Perfect fit for non-standard openings
- Accommodate oversized vehicles or equipment
- Unique aesthetic appeal
Considerations for Custom Sizes:
- Higher cost compared to standard sizes
- Longer lead times for manufacturing
- Potential limitations on door styles and materials
Measuring Your Garage Door Opening
Accurate measurements are crucial when selecting a garage door. Here’s a step-by-step guide to measuring your garage door opening:
Step 1: Measure the Width: Measure the width of the opening from one side to the other, at the top, middle, and bottom. Use the widest measurement.
Step 2: Measure the Height: Measure the height of the opening from the floor to the top of the opening, on both sides and in the middle. Use the tallest measurement.
Step 3: Measure the Sideroom: Measure the distance from the side of the opening to the nearest wall on both sides. This is important for track installation.
Step 4: Measure the Headroom: Measure the distance from the top of the opening to the ceiling. This is important for garage door opener installation.
Step 5: Measure the Backroom: Measure the distance from the garage door opening to the back wall of the garage. This is important to ensure the door has enough space to open fully.
Pro Tip: Take multiple measurements and double-check your work to ensure accuracy. If you’re unsure about any of the measurements, it’s always best to consult with a professional garage door technician.
Final Solution
Choosing the right garage door size is a critical decision that impacts both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. Standard sizes offer a cost-effective and readily available option for most homeowners. However, if you have unique requirements or a non-standard garage opening, a custom-sized door might be the best solution. Remember to consider factors like vehicle size, garage usage, and building codes when making your decision. And always take accurate measurements to ensure a proper fit.
Safety Note
Garage door installation and repair can be dangerous tasks. Always disconnect the power to the garage door opener before attempting any work. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components or heavy machinery, it’s best to leave the job to a qualified professional.
FAQs
Q: What is the most common garage door size?
A: The most common garage door size is 8×7 or 9×7 for a single car garage and 16×7 for a double car garage.
Q: Can I install a larger garage door than my current opening?
A: It may be possible to enlarge your garage door opening, but this typically requires structural modifications and may require permits. It’s best to consult with a qualified contractor.
Q: How much does a custom garage door cost?
A: The cost of a custom garage door can vary depending on the size, materials, and design. It’s best to get a quote from a reputable garage door company.
Q: What if my garage door opening is slightly smaller than a standard size?
A: In this case, you may need to consider a custom-sized door or modify the opening slightly to accommodate a standard size.
We hope this guide has helped you understand the various garage door sizes available and how to choose the right one for your home. If you have any further questions or need assistance with garage door installation or repair, don’t hesitate to contact our expert technicians at MM Garage Door Repair Utah. We’re here to help!
Ready to upgrade your garage door or need expert advice? Don’t get stuck in a jam! Call MM Garage Door Repair Utah today at 801-418-9217 for a free consultation and let us help you find the perfect fit. Or, visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com to explore our services and schedule an appointment. Let’s get your garage door working smoothly!
