Many people focus on the design or material of a garage door when choosing one, but the width is equally important. Imagine trying to park your car only to realize the garage feels too tight or struggling to fit a larger vehicle through a door that’s too narrow. Whether you’re planning for a single-car, double-car, or even an RV garage, understanding the correct width is key to avoiding these issues.
In this article, we’ll walk you through all the essential measurements for garage door widths, including standard sizes and tips on measuring correctly. You’ll also learn about important considerations like side room, headroom, and backroom, which are crucial for ensuring your door fits and functions properly. If you’re unsure which width is right for your garage, we’ve got you covered.
Choosing the correct width for your garage door can improve its functionality and make parking easier. Keep reading for valuable tips on selecting the right fit for your home!
How to Measure Garage Door Width and Other Critical Dimensions
Before you choose the perfect garage door, it’s important to measure the width and several other key dimensions. Getting the measurements right ensures that the door fits properly and operates smoothly.
Tools Needed to Measure Your Garage Door
Before you start measuring, gather the following tools:
- Tape measure (at least 25 feet)
- Ladder (if needed)
- Notepad or phone to record measurements
Step 1: Measure the Garage Door Width
The width of the garage door is the most critical dimension. To measure this:
- Start at one side of the garage opening and extend the tape measure to the other.
- Record the measurement. Standard single-car garage doors are typically 8 to 10 feet wide, while double-car garage doors range from 16 to 18 feet wide.
Step 2: Measure the Garage Door Height
After measuring the width, you’ll want to measure the height of your garage door:
- Run the tape measure from the floor to the top of the garage opening.
- Typical garage door heights are 7 or 8 feet. However, if you own an RV or a larger vehicle, you may need a custom height.
Step 3: Measure the Sideroom
The sideroom refers to the space between the edge of the garage opening and the wall. This is essential for fitting the tracks and hardware:
- Measure from the edge of the garage opening to the nearest wall on both sides.
- Ideally, a standard garage door should have at least 3.75 inches on each side, but you’ll need more space if you plan to install a larger or heavier door.
Step 4: Measure the Headroom
Headroom is the space between the top of the garage door opening and the ceiling or any obstructions like beams:
- Measure from the top of the garage door opening up to the lowest point of the ceiling.
- Most garage door openers require at least 10-12 inches of headroom.
Step 5: Measure the Backroom
Finally, backroom is the distance from the garage door opening to the back wall of the garage. This ensures there is enough space for the door to open fully.
- Measure from the garage door opening to the far wall.
- You’ll need a minimum of the door height plus 18 inches to accommodate the door when it’s open.
Standard Garage Door Widths and Configurations
Now that you know how to measure, let’s dive into the typical sizes available for residential and commercial garages. Residential garage doors come in several standard sizes, depending on the type of vehicle(s) you plan to park. Choosing the right size ensures easy access and enough room for your car(s) while maintaining safety and aesthetics.
Single-Car Garage Doors
The most common width for a single-car garage door is between 8 and 10 feet. If you own a compact car, 8 feet should suffice, providing enough clearance for comfortable entry and exit. However, if you have a larger vehicle, like an SUV or truck, or prefer extra room for getting in and out of the car, you’ll want a door closer to 9 or 10 feet wide. A wider door also gives flexibility for maneuvering bikes or small equipment alongside your vehicle.
Double-Car Garage Doors
Double-car garage doors are typically 16 to 18 feet wide for homeowners with two cars. This width comfortably accommodates two average-sized vehicles side by side, with enough space to avoid accidental dings or scrapes. If you own larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks or simply want more room for ease of parking, the 18-foot width may be the best choice. Additionally, a wider door can make backing in and out less stressful, particularly for families with young drivers or those who frequently carry bulky items.
RV Garage Doors
If you own an RV, boat, or any vehicle with significant height, you’ll need an oversized garage door. RV garage doors typically have widths of up to 12 feet and heights of up to 14 feet, providing the necessary clearance for taller vehicles. Measuring your RV’s height and width before selecting a door is important, as even a couple of inches too short could prevent smooth entry. These larger doors are also great for workshops or garages storing large equipment.
Commercial Garage Door Width Options
For businesses and industrial spaces, garage doors need to accommodate vehicles, larger equipment, and frequent usage. Commercial garage doors are built for durability and heavy-duty use and offer a variety of widths, heights, and materials to suit different operational needs.
Rolling Steel Doors
Rolling steel doors are commonly used in warehouses, loading docks, and industrial facilities due to their space-saving design and durability. These doors roll up into a compact coil above the door opening, making them ideal for spaces with limited headroom. They can be customized to almost any width, making them a versatile choice for businesses requiring security and easy access to trucks or forklifts.
High-Speed Roll-Up Doors
High-speed roll-up doors are designed for environments where time and temperature control are critical, such as distribution centers or temperature-sensitive storage areas. These doors open and close much faster than traditional models, helping to maintain indoor conditions and reduce energy costs. They’re available in standard widths up to 20 feet, accommodating larger commercial vehicles or multiple equipment passages.
Overhead Sectional Doors
Overhead sectional doors function similarly to residential garage doors but are scaled up for commercial use. They are typically found in fire stations, auto repair shops, and other spaces where insulation and durability are essential. These doors can be customized to fit larger openings. They can also be insulated to maintain internal temperatures in heated or cooled spaces, making them a popular choice for businesses prioritizing energy efficiency.
How to Choose the Right Garage Door Width for Your Needs
Now that you understand the different sizes and types, how do you choose the right one for your home or business? Here are a few factors to consider when making your decision:
Consider Your Vehicle Size
The first and most important step is to measure your vehicle. Whether you have a compact car, SUV, or truck, knowing your vehicle’s exact width and height will help you choose the correct garage door size. If you have more than one vehicle, ensure enough space between them when parked, and account for any additional items like bikes or storage racks that may need space inside the garage.
Future-Proof Your Garage
Even if you own a smaller vehicle now, think about future needs. If you’re planning to upgrade to a larger vehicle or if your family will grow, it may be wise to install a wider door. This extra space can also help accommodate larger outdoor equipment, like lawnmowers or snow blowers, without squeezing everything into one tight space.
Check Local Building Codes
Before deciding, check local building codes and homeowner association (HOA) regulations. Some areas, particularly in certain neighborhoods or housing developments, have restrictions on garage door sizes. It’s better to know these rules upfront to avoid potential fines or the need for costly alterations later on.
Think About Functionality
For commercial spaces, the door’s functionality is just as important as its size. Consider how many vehicles or pieces of equipment will regularly pass through the door and how often they will be used. In cases of frequent wear and tear, timely garage door repair may be necessary to maintain optimal performance. Doors in high-traffic areas may need to be wider and more durable to withstand heavy usage, while a smaller door might be more appropriate for a space that requires less access.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a standard garage door size?
The standard garage door size for a single-car garage is 9 feet wide by 7 feet tall, and for a double-car garage, it is usually 16 feet wide by 7 feet tall. These dimensions provide ample space for most vehicles and ensure ease of entry and exit from the garage.
How wide is a garage entrance?
A typical single-car garage entrance is 8 to 9 feet wide. This width is standard for residential garages and accommodates most personal vehicles. The entrance is usually 16 feet wide for a two-car garage, allowing enough space for two vehicles to park side by side and enter or exit without difficulty.
How wide is a garage?
A standard single-car garage is usually about 12 feet wide. Depending on the layout, a double-car garage’s width ranges from 20 to 24 feet. The extra space allows for storage, walking paths, and the safe opening of vehicle doors without hitting the walls or other objects.
What is the minimum width between garage doors?
The minimum width between two garage doors should be at least 1 to 2 feet. This space allows for structural support, hardware installation, and safe clearance for the doors to operate independently without interference. It also provides room for any necessary maintenance or repairs.
How wide can you go on a garage door?
Garage doors can be custom-made to reach widths of 20 feet or more. These wider doors are ideal for larger vehicles, RVs, or commercial garages. In residential settings, double-wide doors are common at 16 feet, but custom designs can go wider to suit specific needs.
Summing It All Up
In conclusion, understanding garage door width and other critical dimensions is essential for choosing the right door for your home or business. From single and double-car residential options to larger, customizable commercial doors, ensuring proper measurements will guarantee smooth operation and optimal functionality.
Whether you’re accommodating a compact car, an RV, or industrial equipment, selecting the appropriate width and height for your new garage door is key to meeting your current and future needs. Always consider your vehicle size, available space, and potential changes down the road. By following these guidelines and measurements, you’ll be well-prepared to make an informed choice, ensuring a garage door that perfectly fits your space and enhances your property’s overall convenience and value.
End Note
At MF Solutions Inc., we know that getting the right garage door width can make all the difference in your home’s functionality and curb appeal. Whether you’re considering a standard single-car door or a wider double-car or RV garage door, we have the perfect solution. We proudly install and repair C.H.I. Overhead Doors and work with top brands like LiftMaster, Raynor, and Genie. From broken garage door springs to complete garage door replacements, our services cover all your needs, including commercial repairs and specialized swing or roll-up doors.
Visit our website for a full range of services, learn more about us, or explore our service areas. Be inspired by our gallery, and don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions. You can also check out what our satisfied customers say in our reviews. We’re here to ensure you get the perfect fit for your garage door needs!
