A sturdy garage door can improve your home’s curb appeal. However, installing a garage door or replacing an existing one is more challenging than it sounds. The first step towards installing a new garage door is determining its proper size. Titan Garage Doors explains how to measure your garage doors and lists the standard garage door sizes. Click here to know more about the company and its services:
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Measuring a Garage Door
When measuring a residential garage door, you must not just note its dimensions. The door’s measurement should include space for a door opener in both the closed and open positions. Below are steps to measure your garage door:
- Measure the height and width of the door opening in inches. The door opening is usually referred to as the rough opening. Your door will be approximately the same size as the rough opening.
- Measure the space on the right and left sides of the opening. This is called the “side room.” Most vertical track systems will need 3.75 inches on each side. Some systems may need up to 5.5 inches per side.
- Calculate the headroom measurement. This refers to the distance between the garage’s ceiling and the door jamb header. The standard system needs a headroom of at least 10 inches. Some systems may need 12 inches. Garage door openers will need an additional three inches of clearance.
- Determine the backroom measurement. This is the distance between the door and the garage’s back wall. Typically, your garage will need a backroom equal to the door height plus 18 inches.
Standard Garage Door Sizes
The size of your garage door will depend on your house and its design. You must consider everything, from the door height to the back wall, when installing a new door. Garage doors can be as tall as 9 feet and as wide as 18 feet. Below is a list of standard garage door sizes for different doors and vehicles:
Single Garage Door
The average size for a single-car door is typically 8-9 feet in width and 7-8 feet in height. If you are building a new home, you can fix a garage door that is 9 feet by 7 feet. This size usually accommodates all large automobiles.
Double Door
The typical double-door measures 16 feet in width and 7-8 feet in height. You can take two cars through this door. The height of the door remains the same as the single-car door, but the width increases.
Recreational Garage Door
The door sizes will vary if you don’t park your car in the garage but use it for recreation. Since the recreational garage will act like one of the interior rooms, the size needed is almost similar to that needed for a family room or living room.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Garage Door
Your garage door size depends on various factors. Common factors to consider include:
Type and Size of Your Vehicle
Your garage door should be big enough to accommodate your vehicle and tall enough to fit its rooftop accessories like cargo holders and roof racks.
How Many Vehicles You Own
Apart from its size, you also must consider the number of vehicles you own. You must leave at least two feet between each vehicle when you park them. This allows you to open the car door easily when entering or leaving the car.
Any Additional Space Needed
Most homeowners like having extra space in their garages to store lawn mowers, garden tools, and other items. Some owners may even put tables in the garage for other recreational activities. Your garage door should be large enough to move these items in and out of the garage, and for any activities you may want to conduct.
Garage Size
The size of your garage will also determine its door size. If you are getting a new garage made, you can consult an expert during the planning and consider all your needs before building the garage and getting the door.
A sturdy door is more than just a door for your garage. Not only does it enhance your home’s appearance, but it also acts as the first line of protection to your home’s entrance. However, as sturdy as your garage doors are, they may sometimes have issues that need repairs. Professionals like Titan Garage Doors can repair any issues or install new garage doors. They offer 24/7 garage door repair services and can help you service both wooden and metal doors.
