MM Garage Door Repairs' Blog
Welcome to Ask A Pro by MM Garage Door Repair, your Utah County resource for practical answers to all those miscellaneous and “other” garage‐door questions. Whether it’s a one-off concern or an uncommon DIY challenge, our expert tips and clear guidance will help you tackle it with confidence.
🔍 Find out: How big is a garage?
Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! I’m your friendly neighborhood garage door technician, here to shed some light on a question we get asked surprisingly often: “How big is a garage?” It might seem like a simple question, but the answer is more nuanced than you might think. Let’s dive into the world of garage dimensions and help you figure out what size is right for you. Whether you’re building a new home, renovating an existing garage, or simply curious, this guide will provide you with the information you need.
Understanding Standard Garage Sizes
The most common garage sizes are designed to accommodate one, two, or three vehicles. However, even within these categories, there’s variation. Let’s break down the standard dimensions:
Single-Car Garages
A standard single-car garage typically measures around 12 feet wide by 20-24 feet deep. This provides enough space for a standard-sized car and a little extra room for storage along the sides or back. However, if you have a larger vehicle or plan to use the garage for more than just parking, you might want to consider a slightly larger size.
Two-Car Garages
The most common size for a two-car garage is 20-24 feet wide by 20-24 feet deep. This allows for two cars to be parked side-by-side with some room to maneuver. Again, if you have larger vehicles like trucks or SUVs, or if you want to store tools, bikes, or other items, you might want to increase the width and depth.
Three-Car Garages
Three-car garages come in a few different configurations. One option is a single wide garage, typically around 30-36 feet wide by 20-24 feet deep. Another option is a tandem garage, which is deeper than it is wide, allowing cars to be parked one behind the other. These can be around 20-24 feet wide and 36-40 feet deep. The best choice depends on your specific needs and the layout of your property.
Factors Influencing Garage Size
While standard sizes provide a good starting point, several factors can influence the ideal garage size for your needs:
Vehicle Size
This is the most obvious factor. If you own large trucks, SUVs, or vans, you’ll need a garage that’s wider and deeper than if you own compact cars. Measure your vehicles and add some extra space for comfortable maneuvering and opening doors.
Storage Needs
Do you plan to use your garage for storage? Many homeowners use their garages to store tools, lawn equipment, bikes, holiday decorations, and more. If so, you’ll need to factor in the space required for shelving, cabinets, and other storage solutions.
Workshop Space
Some homeowners use their garages as workshops for woodworking, car repair, or other hobbies. If you plan to use your garage as a workshop, you’ll need ample space for workbenches, tools, and equipment.
Local Building Codes
Local building codes may dictate minimum or maximum garage sizes. Be sure to check with your local building department before starting any construction or renovation project.
Measuring Your Existing Garage
If you already have a garage and are considering replacing the door, it’s crucial to accurately measure the opening. Here’s how:
- Width: Measure the width of the opening from inside edge to inside edge.
- Height: Measure the height of the opening from the floor to the top of the opening.
- Sideroom: Measure the distance from the edge of the opening to the wall on both sides. This is important for installing the tracks and hardware.
- Headroom: Measure the distance from the top of the opening to the ceiling. This is crucial for determining the type of garage door opener you can install.
- Backroom: Measure the distance from the garage door opening to the back wall of the garage. This determines how much space the garage door will need when it’s open.
Accurate measurements are essential for ensuring that your new garage door fits properly and operates smoothly. If you’re unsure about any of these measurements, don’t hesitate to call us at MM Garage Door Repair Utah. We’re happy to help!
Choosing the Right Garage Door Size
Once you know the dimensions of your garage opening, you can choose the right size garage door. Standard garage door sizes are typically 8, 9, 10, 16, or 18 feet wide and 7 or 8 feet high. However, custom sizes are also available if you have a non-standard opening.
When choosing a garage door size, consider the following:
- Vehicle Height: Make sure the door is tall enough to accommodate your tallest vehicle.
- Clearance: Allow for some extra clearance above your vehicle to prevent damage to the door or your vehicle.
- Aesthetics: Choose a door size that complements the overall look of your home.
Final Solution
Ultimately, the “right” garage size depends entirely on your individual needs and circumstances. Carefully consider the factors outlined above, and don’t be afraid to err on the side of larger rather than smaller. A little extra space can go a long way in terms of convenience and functionality.
Safety Note
Working with garage doors can be dangerous. 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 call a professional technician like those at MM Garage Door Repair Utah.
FAQs
Q: What is the standard height of a garage door?
A: The standard height is typically 7 or 8 feet.
Q: Can I get a custom-sized garage door?
A: Yes, custom sizes are available from most garage door manufacturers.
Q: How much headroom do I need for a garage door opener?
A: Typically, you need at least 12 inches of headroom for a standard garage door opener.
Q: What if my garage door opening is not a standard size?
A: You can either have a custom-sized door made or modify the opening to fit a standard-sized door.
We hope this guide has helped you understand the complexities of garage sizes. At MM Garage Door Repair Utah, we’re committed to providing our customers with the best possible service and expertise. Whether you need a new garage door, a repair, or just some advice, we’re here to help.
Ready to upgrade your garage or need some expert advice? Don’t hesitate to reach out! Give us a call at 801-418-9217 or visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com for a free consultation. Let’s get your garage door working perfectly, so you can focus on what matters most. Contact us today and let’s make your garage dreams a reality!
