How to size a garage door?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your local garage door experts, we often get asked a lot of questions about garage doors. One of the most common inquiries is: “How do I size a garage door?” Getting the right size is crucial for proper functionality, security, and curb appeal. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have all the information you need. Let’s dive in!

Why Garage Door Size Matters

Before we get into the how-to, let’s quickly cover why garage door size is so important. A properly sized garage door ensures a snug fit, preventing drafts, pests, and potential security breaches. It also impacts the overall aesthetics of your home. A door that’s too small can look awkward, while one that’s too large can be overpowering. Furthermore, the correct size is essential for the smooth operation of your garage door opener and the longevity of the door itself.

Tools You’ll Need

To accurately measure your garage door opening, you’ll need a few basic tools:

• Measuring tape (preferably a long one, at least 25 feet)
• A level
• A notepad and pen or a digital device for recording measurements
• A helper (optional, but recommended for larger openings)

Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Garage Door

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Follow these steps carefully to ensure accurate measurements.

Step 1: Measure the Width

The width is the horizontal distance across the garage door opening. Measure from the inside edge of one side of the opening to the inside edge of the other side. Make sure to measure at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening. Use the largest of these three measurements as your width. This is important because garage door openings are not always perfectly square.

Step 2: Measure the Height

The height is the vertical distance from the floor to the top of the garage door opening. Again, measure at both the left and right sides of the opening, as well as in the center. Use the largest of these three measurements as your height. Ensure your floor is level. If not, take that into account when ordering your door.

Step 3: Measure the Sideroom

Sideroom refers to the space available on either side of the garage door opening, from the edge of the opening to the nearest obstruction (wall, pipe, etc.). You’ll need at least 3-6 inches of sideroom on each side for the vertical tracks of the garage door. Measure the distance from the edge of the opening to any obstruction on both the left and right sides.

Step 4: Measure the Headroom

Headroom is the space available above the garage door opening, from the top of the opening to the ceiling or any obstruction (beam, pipe, etc.). Standard garage doors require at least 12 inches of headroom for the horizontal tracks and the spring system. If you’re considering an automatic garage door opener, you’ll likely need 15 inches or more. Measure the distance from the top of the opening to the lowest obstruction above it.

Step 5: Measure the Backroom

Backroom, also known as garage depth, is the distance from the garage door opening to the back wall of the garage. This measurement is crucial for ensuring that the garage door has enough space to fully open without hitting anything. A standard garage door requires a backroom equal to the door’s height plus an additional 18 inches. Measure from the garage door opening to the back wall to determine your backroom.

Standard Garage Door Sizes

While custom sizes are available, there are several standard garage door sizes that are commonly used. These include:

• Single Car Garage Door: 8 feet wide x 7 feet high, 9 feet wide x 7 feet high, 10 feet wide x 7 feet high
• Double Car Garage Door: 16 feet wide x 7 feet high, 18 feet wide x 7 feet high

The 7-foot height is the most common, but 8-foot heights are also available and becoming increasingly popular, especially for taller vehicles.

Special Considerations

Keep these points in mind when measuring:

• Arched Openings: If you have an arched garage door opening, measure the widest and tallest points of the arch. You may need a custom-made door to fit the opening properly.
• Obstructions: Be aware of any pipes, wiring, or other obstructions that may interfere with the installation or operation of the garage door.
• Floor Level: Ensure your garage floor is level. If it’s not, you may need to adjust the height of the door or level the floor before installation.

Safety Note

Always exercise caution when measuring. Use a stable ladder if needed, and be aware of your surroundings. If you’re uncomfortable with any part of the measuring process, it’s best to consult with a professional.

FAQs

Q: What if my measurements don’t match a standard size?

A: Don’t worry! Custom-sized garage doors are available. Contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah, and we can help you find the perfect fit for your unique opening.

Q: How accurate do my measurements need to be?

A: Aim for accuracy within 1/4 inch. Even small discrepancies can affect the installation and operation of the door.

Q: Can I measure the existing garage door instead of the opening?

A: While you can measure the existing door, it’s always best to measure the opening itself. This will account for any potential variations or imperfections in the opening.

Final Solution

After taking all the measurements, compare them to standard garage door sizes. If your measurements closely match a standard size, that’s great! If not, you’ll need to consider a custom-sized door. Remember to factor in sideroom, headroom, and backroom requirements to ensure proper installation and operation. It is always a good idea to double-check your measurements. When in doubt, contact a professional.

Measuring for a new garage door can seem daunting, but by following these steps carefully, you can ensure that you get the right size for your home. Accurate measurements are crucial for a proper fit, smooth operation, and long-lasting performance. If you have any questions or need assistance with measuring or installing your garage door, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah.

Ready to upgrade your garage door? Don’t risk the DIY route – let our experienced technicians handle the job with precision and care. Call MM Garage Door Repair Utah today at 801-418-9217 for a free consultation and expert advice. Or, visit mmgaragedoorrepair.com to explore our wide selection of garage doors and schedule your appointment. Let’s get those measurements turned into the perfect garage door solution for your home!