What size garage door?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we’re dedicated to providing you with the information you need to keep your garage door functioning smoothly and safely. One of the most common questions we receive is, “What size garage door do I need?” The answer isn’t always straightforward, as it depends on several factors. In this post, we’ll break down the standard garage door sizes, how to measure your opening, and other considerations to help you choose the right size for your home.

Understanding Standard Garage Door Sizes

Garage doors come in a variety of sizes to accommodate different types of vehicles and garage configurations. While custom sizes are available, understanding the standard options is a great place to start. Knowing the standard sizes can also help you avoid costly custom orders and ensure a smoother installation process.

Single Car Garage Doors: The most common size for a single car garage door is 8 feet wide by 7 feet high (8′ x 7′). However, you’ll also find 9-foot wide doors (9′ x 7′) becoming increasingly popular, offering a bit more space for larger vehicles or easier maneuvering. Some older homes might have single car garage doors that are only 7 feet wide.

Double Car Garage Doors: For two-car garages, the standard size is typically 16 feet wide by 7 feet high (16′ x 7′). Again, you might find variations, with some homes opting for 18-foot wide doors (18′ x 7′) for added space. These wider doors are particularly useful if you have larger vehicles or need extra room for storage along the sides of the garage.

Height Considerations: While 7 feet is the most common height, you can also find garage doors that are 8 feet high (8′ high). These taller doors are often preferred for garages that need to accommodate taller vehicles like trucks, vans, or SUVs. Additionally, if you plan to install a car lift in your garage, a taller door is essential.

How to Measure Your Garage Door Opening

Accurate measurements are crucial when selecting a new garage door. Here’s a step-by-step guide to measuring your garage door opening:

Step 1: Measure the Width: Use a measuring tape to measure the width of the opening from one side to the other. Measure at the top, middle, and bottom to ensure the opening is consistent. Use the widest measurement.

Step 2: Measure the Height: Measure the height of the opening from the floor to the top of the opening. Again, measure on both sides and in the middle to ensure consistency. Use the tallest measurement.

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

Step 4: Measure the Headroom: Headroom is the space above the door opening. You’ll need at least 12 inches of headroom for a standard garage door opener and track system. If you’re planning to install a torsion spring system, you might need more headroom. Measure from the top of the opening to the ceiling or any obstruction above.

Step 5: Measure the Backroom: Backroom is the depth of the garage, measured from the opening to the back wall. You’ll need enough backroom to accommodate the horizontal tracks of the garage door when it’s open. A standard garage door requires a backroom depth equal to the door height plus an additional 18 inches.

Tip: It’s always a good idea to take multiple measurements and double-check your work. If you’re unsure about any of the measurements, it’s best to consult with a professional garage door technician.

Other Considerations When Choosing a Garage Door Size

Beyond the standard sizes and measurements, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing the right garage door size:

Vehicle Size: Consider the size of your current vehicles and any future vehicles you might purchase. If you have a large truck or SUV, you’ll want to ensure the garage door is tall enough to accommodate it comfortably.

Garage Use: How do you plan to use your garage? If you’ll be using it primarily for parking vehicles, the standard sizes might suffice. However, if you plan to use it for storage, a workshop, or other purposes, you might want to consider a larger door to provide more space and flexibility.

Aesthetic Preferences: The size of your garage door can also impact the overall look and feel of your home. A larger door can make your garage appear more prominent, while a smaller door can blend in more seamlessly with the rest of the facade. Consider the architectural style of your home and choose a garage door size that complements it.

Local Building Codes: Be sure to check your local building codes and regulations to ensure that your chosen garage door size complies with all requirements. Some areas might have restrictions on the maximum size of garage doors or require specific safety features.

Final Solution

Determining the right garage door size involves considering standard dimensions, accurate measurements, and your specific needs. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose a garage door that provides optimal functionality, security, and aesthetic appeal. If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, it is always best to consult with a professional.

Safety Note

Working with garage doors can be dangerous. Garage doors are heavy and under a lot of tension. Always disconnect the power to the garage door opener before attempting any repairs or adjustments. If you’re not comfortable working with garage doors, it’s best to leave the job to a qualified technician.

FAQs

Q: What is the most common garage door size?

A: The most common size for a single car garage door is 8 feet wide by 7 feet high (8′ x 7′). For a double car garage door, the most common size is 16 feet wide by 7 feet high (16′ x 7′).

Q: Can I get a custom-sized garage door?

A: Yes, custom-sized garage doors are available. However, they are typically more expensive and may take longer to manufacture and install.

Q: How much headroom do I need for a garage door opener?

A: You typically need at least 12 inches of headroom for a standard garage door opener and track system. If you’re planning to install a torsion spring system, you might need more headroom.

Q: What is sideroom?

A: Sideroom refers to the space available on either side of the door opening. You’ll need at least 3-6 inches of sideroom on each side for the vertical tracks of the garage door.

Choosing the right garage door size is a crucial step in ensuring the functionality and safety of your garage. By understanding the standard sizes, accurately measuring your opening, and considering your specific needs, you can make an informed decision. If you’re still unsure about what size garage door is right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah. We’re here to help you every step of the way, from selecting the perfect door to professional installation and ongoing maintenance.

Ready to upgrade your garage door? Contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah today for a free consultation! Give us a call at 801-418-9217 or visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com. Let’s get those measurements just right, and together, we’ll open the door to a safer, more stylish, and perfectly sized garage for your home!