Garage Door Dimensions: What Are The Standard Sizes?

Last Updated on July 15, 2023 by Kimberly Crawford

When it comes to designing or remodeling your home, every detail matters – right down to the dimensions of your garage door. The garage is an integral part of your home’s functionality and curb appeal.

It serves as a protective house for your vehicle, a storage space, and often, an additional entryway into your home. Therefore, the size of the garage door you choose can significantly impact these functionalities.

The importance of garage door dimensions goes beyond aesthetic considerations. The right dimensions ensure that your vehicles can comfortably fit into the garage without any hassle. Moreover, they also contribute to the efficient use of space within the garage, allowing for additional storage or workspace if needed.

Choosing the wrong garage door size can lead to a host of problems, from difficulty fitting your car inside to potential structural issues in the future. That’s why understanding garage door dimensions and knowing how to select the right size is crucial for homeowners.

In this article, we will explore the various standard garage door sizes, how to measure them, and other factors that come into play when deciding on the perfect garage door size for your home.

Standard Garage Door Sizes

Standard sizes for single car garages are designed to accommodate a variety of vehicles, from compact cars to larger SUVs or trucks. The most common sizes include:

1. 10 x 18 feet: This is considered the minimum size for a one-car garage. It can comfortably fit a small car but might be a tight squeeze for larger vehicles.
2. 12 x 20 feet: This size is more common and provides ample space for most cars, with some room to spare for storage or maneuverability.
3. 12 x 22 feet: This size offers even more room, making it easier to get in and out of the vehicle and providing additional space for storage.
4. 14 x 22 feet, 16 x 24 feet, and 14 x 24 feet: These are larger sizes that give you extra width or depth. They’re ideal if you have a larger vehicle, need more storage space, or want a little extra room to move around.

Remember, these are standard sizes and your needs may vary depending on your vehicle size, how you plan to use the garage, and the amount of storage you require. If your needs don’t align with these dimensions, consider a custom size for your garage.

Factors Influencing Garage Door Size

Factors that determine the size of a garage door are varied and numerous. Here are some key factors:

Vehicle Size

The most obvious factor is the size of the vehicles you plan to park in the garage. A small car or motorcycle will require less space than a large SUV, van, or truck.

If you have multiple vehicles or plan to buy a larger vehicle in the future, you’ll need to consider this when choosing a garage door size.

Garage Interior Space

The interior dimensions of your garage also influence the size of your garage door. If your garage has ample space, you could opt for a larger door. However, if space is limited, you might need to settle for a smaller door.

Home’s Architectural Design

The design of your home can influence the size of your garage door. For instance, if your home has a traditional design, a standard-sized garage door may be most suitable. But if your home has a contemporary design with unique features, a custom-sized garage door might be the best fit.

Purpose of the Garage

If the garage is used for purposes other than parking cars, like storage or as a workspace, this could influence the size of the garage door. A larger door could make moving items in and out of the garage easier.

Local Building Regulations

Some localities have building codes that dictate the size of garage doors. Before you decide on a garage door size, it’s important to check with your local building department to ensure your new garage door will comply with all regulations.

Aesthetics

The size of your garage door can impact the overall appearance of your home. You’ll want to choose a size that is proportional to the rest of your home to create a balanced look.

Budget

Larger garage doors tend to be more expensive than smaller ones. Your budget could influence the size of the garage door you choose.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the right garage door size. It’s about finding a balance between practicality, aesthetics, and cost.

How to Measure a Garage Door

Measuring your garage door is an essential step in purchasing a new one. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Measure the Width

Using a tape measure, measure the width of the opening at the widest point. This is the distance between the right and left sides of the finished opening. Note down the measurement in feet and inches.

Step 2: Measure the Height

Next, measure the height (up and down) of the door from the highest point to the lowest point. This is the space between the floor and the top of the finished opening. Record this measurement as well.

Step 3: Measure the Side Room

After measuring the width and height, measure the side room, which is the space on each side of the garage door opening. You’ll need at least 3.75 inches on each side for the standard extension spring or EZ-SET Extension Spring System, and 5.5 inches for the standard torsion spring or EZ-SET Torsion Spring System.

Step 4: Measure the Headroom

The headroom is the space between the top of the garage door and the ceiling. This space is needed for the door to retract correctly. Standard headroom requirements range from 10 to 12 inches for typical residential doors.

Step 5: Measure the Depth

The depth of your garage should be measured from the garage door opening to the back wall of the garage. Your door system should be at least the same measurement as the height of your door.

Remember to always double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy. If you’re unsure about any part of the measuring process, consider hiring a professional to do it for you. A properly measured garage door will ensure a smooth installation process and optimal performance.

When and Why You Might Need a Custom Size Garage Door

Although standard garage door sizes will suit many homes, there are circumstances when a custom size might be necessary. Here are several situations where you might need to consider a custom garage door size:

1. Non-Standard Vehicle Sizes: If you have an oversized vehicle such as a large truck, RV, or boat, a standard garage door might not provide enough clearance. In this case, you’ll need a taller or wider custom door to accommodate your vehicle.
2. Garage Design: If your garage has a unique design, shape, or size that doesn’t align with standard dimensions, a custom garage door will likely be necessary. This could be due to architectural design, older construction standards, or renovation changes.
3. Maximizing Space: If you want to make the most of your garage space for storage or workspace, a larger custom garage door can provide easier access and more flexibility.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: A custom garage door can enhance the curb appeal of your home by fitting perfectly with your home’s design. With a custom door, you can choose specific materials, styles, colors, and features to match your home’s exterior.
5. Building Regulations: In some cases, local building codes may require specific garage door sizes that don’t align with standard options.

Remember, while custom garage doors offer many benefits, they can be more expensive than standard sizes due to the additional labor and materials required. It’s important to weigh the cost against the benefits before deciding on a custom size.

If you’re considering a custom garage door, it’s recommended to consult with a professional. They can provide guidance based on their experience and help you navigate the process to ensure you get the right door for your needs.

Different Garage Door Materials

Choosing the right material for your garage door is just as important as selecting the correct size. Each material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a brief overview of the most common garage door materials:

1. Wood: Wood garage doors are popular for their natural beauty and elegance. They offer a timeless, classic look and can be customized with different stains and designs. However, they require regular maintenance to prevent warping and rotting, and they can be more expensive than other options.
2. Steel: Steel garage doors are known for their durability and strength. They’re resistant to warping and cracking and require minimal maintenance. Steel doors can also be insulated to improve energy efficiency. They come in various styles and finishes, including options that mimic the look of wood. However, they can be susceptible to rust if not properly maintained.
3. Aluminum: Aluminum garage doors are lightweight, making them a good option for extra-wide doors as they put less strain on the operating mechanism. They’re resistant to rust, making them a good choice for humid climates. However, they’re less durable than steel and can dent easily.
4. Fiberglass: Fiberglass doors are resistant to denting and cracking. They’re also resistant to rust, making them suitable for coastal areas. However, they can fade from prolonged exposure to sunlight and aren’t as insulating as other materials.
5. Vinyl: Vinyl garage doors are known for their durability and low maintenance. They resist denting and cracking, and they don’t rust or rot. However, color options for vinyl doors are usually limited, and they may not be as environmentally friendly as other materials.
6. Glass: Glass garage doors offer a modern, sleek look. They provide natural light into the garage and are available in a variety of opacity levels and frame styles. However, they don’t provide much insulation, and privacy can be a concern unless frosted or tinted glass is used.

Remember, the best material for your garage door depends on your specific needs, budget, and the climate in your area.

Sources:

• Bob Vila

Garage Door Installation Considerations

Garage door installation is a complex process that requires precision and expertise. Here are some factors to consider when deciding between a professional installation and a DIY project:

1. Professional Installation vs. DIY: While it might be tempting to save money by installing the garage door yourself, it’s important to consider the skill and tools required for the job. Garage doors are heavy and can be tricky to install, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. A professional installer has the experience and knowledge to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
2. Importance of Correct Installation: Proper installation is crucial for optimal operation of your garage door. If the door isn’t balanced correctly, it can put strain on the garage door opener, leading to premature wear and tear. A poorly installed door can also pose safety risks, as the door could fall or fail to operate properly.
3. Potential Issues with Incorrect Installation: Incorrect installation can lead to a number of problems. These can range from minor issues like squeaking and sticking to major problems like the door falling off its tracks or failing to open or close properly. In the worst-case scenario, a poorly installed door could cause injury or damage to your property.
4. Warranty Considerations: Many garage door manufacturers require professional installation for their warranty to be valid. If you choose to install the door yourself, you could void the warranty.
5. Time and Effort: Installing a garage door can be a time-consuming task, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Hiring a professional can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other tasks.

Sources:

• HomeAdvisor
• The Spruce

Conclusion

Choosing the right garage door size and material is crucial for both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. Whether you have a single car, double car, or need to accommodate larger vehicles like RVs or commercial vehicles, understanding standard garage door sizes and the possibility of custom sizes is essential.

Remember, the size of your garage door will be influenced by factors such as your vehicle size, garage interior space, and your home’s architectural design. Always measure your garage carefully before choosing a door, and consider consulting with a professional if you’re unsure.

The material you choose for your garage door will impact its durability, maintenance requirements, and appearance. Whether you opt for wood, steel, aluminum, fiberglass, vinyl, or glass, make sure to weigh the pros and cons of each material against your specific needs and budget.

Finally, when it comes to installation, while DIY might seem tempting, garage door installation is typically best left to the professionals. Proper installation is critical for the optimal operation and safety of your garage door.

In conclusion, selecting the right garage door involves careful consideration of many factors. By taking the time to assess your needs and preferences, you can choose a garage door that not only enhances the curb appeal of your home but also serves its purpose efficiently and reliably.

FAQs