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🔍 Find out: What are standard door widths?
Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your local garage door experts, we’re dedicated to providing you with the information you need to keep your garage door functioning smoothly and safely. Today, we’re tackling a common question we receive: “What are standard garage door widths?” Understanding standard garage door sizes is crucial whether you’re building a new home, replacing an existing door, or simply planning a garage renovation. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Standard Garage Door Widths
When it comes to garage doors, size matters. The width of your garage door directly impacts what you can store in your garage and how easily you can maneuver vehicles in and out. While custom sizes are available, sticking to standard widths can save you money and simplify the installation process. Here’s a breakdown of the most common sizes:
Single Car Garage Doors
The most common width for a single-car garage door is 8 feet (96 inches). This size is suitable for smaller vehicles and provides a comfortable amount of space for entry and exit. However, many modern single-car garages now opt for a 9-foot (108 inches) wide door. This extra foot provides more clearance, making it easier to park larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks and allows for easier access to the sides of the car once parked.
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Double Car Garage Doors
For double-car garages, the standard width is typically 16 feet (192 inches). This size allows two standard-sized vehicles to park comfortably side-by-side. However, just like with single-car garages, many homeowners are opting for wider doors. An 18-foot (216 inches) wide door offers even more space, especially if you have larger vehicles or need extra room for storage along the sides of the garage.
RV and Oversized Garage Doors
If you own an RV, boat, or other oversized vehicle, you’ll need a significantly wider garage door. These doors can range from 10 feet to 14 feet wide or even wider, depending on the size of your vehicle. It’s crucial to measure your vehicle carefully and consult with a garage door professional to determine the appropriate width and height for your oversized garage door.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Garage Door Width
Choosing the right garage door width isn’t just about fitting your vehicles. Here are some other factors to consider:
- Size of Your Vehicles: This is the most obvious factor. Measure the width of your vehicles, including side mirrors, and add a few extra feet for comfortable maneuvering.
- Storage Needs: Do you plan to store tools, equipment, or other items in your garage? If so, you’ll need a wider door to accommodate both your vehicles and your storage needs.
- Garage Door Style: Some garage door styles, such as carriage house doors, may have limitations on available widths.
- Local Building Codes: Check your local building codes to ensure that your chosen garage door width complies with regulations.
- Future Needs: Consider your future needs. Will you be purchasing a larger vehicle in the future? Planning for potential changes now can save you money and hassle later.
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Measuring Your Existing Garage Door Opening
If you’re replacing an existing garage door, it’s essential to accurately measure the opening. Here’s how:
- Measure the Width: Measure the distance between the inside edges of the door jambs. This is the width of your garage door opening.
- Measure the Height: Measure the distance from the floor to the top of the door opening. This is the height of your garage door opening.
- Measure the Sideroom: Measure the distance from the edge of the door opening to the nearest wall on both sides. This is the sideroom, and it’s important for installing the garage door tracks.
- Measure the Headroom: Measure the distance from the top of the door opening to the ceiling. This is the headroom, and it’s important for installing the garage door opener.
Safety Note: Always exercise caution when working around garage doors. Garage doors are heavy and can cause serious injury if they malfunction. If you’re not comfortable measuring your garage door opening yourself, contact a professional garage door technician.
FAQs About Garage Door Widths
Q: Can I install a wider garage door than my current opening?
A: It depends. You may be able to widen your garage door opening, but this will likely require structural modifications to your garage. It’s best to consult with a contractor or garage door professional to determine if this is possible and safe.
Q: What is the minimum garage door width for a single car?
A: The minimum garage door width for a single car is typically 8 feet, but 9 feet is recommended for larger vehicles.
Q: Are custom garage door widths available?
A: Yes, custom garage door widths are available. However, they are typically more expensive than standard sizes.
Final Solution
Choosing the right garage door width is essential for functionality, convenience, and safety. Standard widths for single-car garages are typically 8 or 9 feet, while double-car garages usually require 16 or 18 feet. For RVs and oversized vehicles, custom widths may be necessary. Remember to consider your vehicle size, storage needs, and local building codes when making your decision. If you’re unsure about the best garage door width for your needs, don’t hesitate to contact the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah.
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At MM Garage Door Repair Utah, we’re committed to providing top-notch service and expert advice. We can help you choose the perfect garage door width for your needs and ensure a safe and professional installation. Don’t settle for anything less than the best!
Ready to upgrade your garage door or need help determining the right size? Give us a call today at 801-418-9217 or visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com. But don’t just visit – tell us about your biggest garage organizational challenge when you call, and we’ll give you a free personalized tip to maximize your garage space! We look forward to hearing from you and helping you achieve the perfect garage door solution.
