As homeowners, we often overlook the importance of our garage doors, treating them merely as functional elements of our property. However, their size and style can significantly impact not only the aesthetics of our homes but also their functionality and convenience.
This article delves into the realm of garage door sizes, providing you with comprehensive charts and insightful discussions. From single-car garages to commercial warehouses, you’ll discover the vast array of sizes available, enabling you to make informed decisions when it comes to replacing, remodeling, or designing your garage space. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the world of garage doors in a whole new light.
Table of Contents
What is a Garage Door Size Chart?
A Garage Door Size Chart is a detailed reference tool that provides information about the various standard dimensions available for garage doors. It outlines the typical widths and heights for different types of garage doors, ranging from those suitable for single-car garages to larger options for commercial use.
These charts can include specifications for doors designed to accommodate everything from compact cars and SUVs to recreational vehicles, delivery vans, or even trucks. Understanding this chart is crucial as it allows homeowners, architects, and builders to make more informed decisions regarding the design, purchase, and installation of garage doors, ensuring the chosen size perfectly fits the vehicle and space needs.
Garage Door Sizes Chart Templates
Installing a properly sized garage door is crucial for functionality and aesthetics. Size chart templates provide measurements to help choose the right door. They account for critical dimensions like opening width and height.
Standard residential garage door sizes range from 8×7 feet up to 16×7 feet. Chart templates break down each common size with precise dimensions. They specify the door panel height and width. The vertical and horizontal clearance measurements are provided. Opening and track requirements are outlined. Templates also include details like step plates and spring sizes for each door size.
Relying on a comprehensive garage door size chart template ensures every measurement is considered. They allow homeowners and contractors to conveniently reference the metrics for common door sizes in one place. Using standardized templates guarantees accurate sizing without complex calculations. They help match the ideal door size to the garage opening for a tailored fit. Templates make the door selection process smooth and precise.
History Of The Garage Doors Opening
Garage door openings have a long and fascinating history, dating back to the time when carriages were the primary mode of transport. Back in the 18th and 19th centuries, ‘garages’ were essentially carriage houses that had large swing-out or sliding doors.
However, with the advent of the automobile era in the early 20th century, the need for more efficient and convenient door systems grew. In 1921, C.G Johnson invented the overhead garage door, making it easier to open and close the door without consuming much driveway space. He followed this with the creation of the electric garage door opener in 1926, a significant milestone that enhanced convenience for vehicle owners.
Through the years, garage doors have evolved significantly. In the mid-20th century, sectional garage doors began to gain popularity. They were composed of several panels hinged together that rolled up and over to the ceiling of the garage. The sectional design also allowed for the incorporation of windows or other aesthetic designs.
Today, garage doors are available in a variety of opening mechanisms, including roll-up, swing out, slide to the side, and swing up. Automated and remote-controlled garage doors have become the norm, providing homeowners with increased security and convenience. This evolution of garage door openings demonstrates the continual adaptation to accommodate changing needs and technological advancements.
What Are the Standard Garage Door Sizes?
Understanding standard garage door sizes is crucial whether you’re building a new garage, remodeling your existing space, or planning to replace your garage door. It’s important to note that while there are standard sizes, garage door dimensions can still be customized to fit unique spaces.
Single Garage Doors:
Predominantly found in homes with one-car garages or multiple spaces each equipped with an individual door, single garage doors adhere to a range of standard sizes. The dimensions typically encompass:
- 10 x 7 feet
- 9 x 7 feet
- 8 x 7 feet
These dimensions aptly accommodate standard cars, SUVs, and small trucks. However, the standard height of 7 feet may not suffice for taller vehicles or equipment. In such cases, a door with a height exceeding 7 feet might be more suitable.
Double Garage Doors:
Optimal for homes featuring larger garage spaces that can house two vehicles side by side, double garage doors represent a more comprehensive solution. The prevalent sizes for double garage doors include:
- 16 x 7 feet
- 18 x 7 feet
The extended width of these doors allows the passage of two vehicles simultaneously, contributing to their appeal amongst homeowners with substantial garage spaces.
RV Garage Doors:
RV owners will need significantly larger doors to cater to the sheer size of their vehicles. Though the standard sizes for RV garage doors generally measure:
- 16 x 8 feet
- 14 x 8 feet
The diversity in RV sizes often calls for even taller doors. Therefore, garage doors soaring to 10, 12, or even 14 feet in height are not an unusual sight in the RV owner community.
Commercial Garage Doors:
The world of commercial garage doors presents a broader spectrum of standard sizes, largely dictated by the intended use of the building. Nevertheless, a few commonly observed sizes are:
- 32 x 24 feet
- 24 x 24 feet
- 30 x 24 feet
These dimensions are engineered to accommodate large commercial vehicles such as trucks and vans, as well as heavy machinery, ensuring smooth operations in commercial settings.
Garage Door Sizes Chart
| Garage Door Type | Common Sizes (Width x Height) | Material | Insulation | Insulation R-Value | Color Options | Wind Resistance | Windows | Panel Style | Security Features | Automation Compatibility | Price Range | Common Brands |
| Single Door | 8×7, 9×7, 10×7, 8×8, 9×8, 10×8 feet | Steel, Aluminum, Wood, Vinyl, Fiberglass | Yes/No | 6.0-13.0 | White, Almond, Sandstone, Brown, Evergreen | Standard, Hurricane | Yes/No | Raised panel, Flush panel, Carriage House | Manual lock, Auto-lock | Yes/No | $300-$3000 | Clopay, Amarr, Wayne Dalton |
| Double Door | 12×7, 14×7, 16×7, 12×8, 14×8, 16×8 feet | Steel, Aluminum, Wood, Vinyl, Fiberglass | Yes/No | 6.0-13.0 | White, Almond, Sandstone, Brown, Evergreen | Standard, Hurricane | Yes/No | Raised panel, Flush panel, Carriage House | Manual lock, Auto-lock | Yes/No | $600-$5000 | Clopay, Amarr, Wayne Dalton |
| RV Door | 16×8, 16×9, 16×10 feet | Steel, Aluminum, Wood, Vinyl, Fiberglass | Yes/No | 6.0-13.0 | White, Almond, Sandstone, Brown, Evergreen | Standard, Hurricane | Yes/No | Raised panel, Flush panel, Carriage House | Manual lock, Auto-lock | Yes/No | $1000-$10000 | Clopay, Amarr, Wayne Dalton |
| Commercial Door | 24×14, 26×14, 30×14, 24×16, 26×16, 30×16 feet | Steel, Aluminum | Yes/No | 6.0-13.0 | White, Almond, Sandstone, Brown, Evergreen | Standard, Hurricane | Yes/No | Raised panel, Flush panel, Carriage House | Manual lock, Auto-lock | Yes/No | $2000-$20000 | Clopay, Amarr, Wayne Dalton |
| Sectional Door | Variable | Steel, Aluminum, Wood, Vinyl, Fiberglass | Yes/No | Variable | Variable | Standard, Hurricane | Yes/No | Raised panel, Flush panel, Carriage House | Manual lock, Auto-lock | Yes/No | Variable | Variable |
| Roll-up Door | Variable | Steel, Aluminum | No | N/A | Variable | Standard, Hurricane | No | Roll-up design | Manual lock | Yes/No | Variable | Variable |
| Side-hinged Door | Variable | Wood, Steel | No | N/A | Variable | Standard | Yes/No | Variable | Manual lock | No | Variable | Variable |
Understanding Custom Garage Door Sizes: What You Need to Know
When it comes to garage doors, one size doesn’t fit all. Custom garage door sizes allow you to perfectly match the door to your unique garage space, architectural design, and specific needs. While standard sizes often cater to the majority of residential and commercial buildings, there are instances where a custom size may be needed. Here’s what you should know about custom garage door sizes:
Understanding Your Needs:
The first step towards getting a custom garage door is understanding your specific needs. Do you have a non-standard size garage opening, a uniquely designed house, oversized vehicles, or specific aesthetic requirements? Your needs will greatly dictate the size, design, and mechanism of your custom garage door.
Measuring Your Garage:
Accurate measurement is crucial in getting a custom garage door. You need to measure the width, height, and depth of your garage opening. You should also measure the space between the opening and the nearest obstructions (like lights, ceilings, or storage) to ensure your new door and its opening mechanism will fit. The side room (space on either side of the door) and headroom (space above the door) are also important considerations.
Choosing the Right Material and Design:
Custom garage doors come in a range of materials, including wood, steel, aluminum, and fiberglass. The choice of material impacts the door’s durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetics. The design can also be tailored to match your home’s architectural style, from modern minimalist to rustic barn-style doors.
Considering the Door Operation Style:
There are several styles of garage door operation: sectional roll-up, tilt-up canopy, tilt-up retractable, and side-hinged. The right one for you depends on your garage’s layout, the available space, and your personal preferences.
Partnering with Professionals:
Given the complexities of designing, constructing, and installing a custom size garage door, it’s crucial to partner with experienced professionals. They can guide you through the process, ensure all measurements are accurate, and provide advice on the most suitable materials and styles.
Pricing:
Remember that customization usually comes at a higher price. The final cost will depend on the size, material, design, type of door, and whether you choose to include windows or other features like insulation. It’s a good idea to get quotes from multiple providers to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
Maintenance:
Like all garage doors, custom-sized doors require regular maintenance to ensure longevity. The maintenance requirements will depend on the material and type of door you choose.
Choosing a custom garage door size is an opportunity to enhance the functionality and curb appeal of your home. However, it’s not a decision to be made lightly. Take your time, do your research, and consult with professionals to make the best choice for your unique needs.
What Size Custom Garage Doors Are Available?
For residential properties, custom garage doors typically range in width from 8 feet up to 20 feet, and in height from 7 feet to upwards of 14 feet. These dimensions can accommodate everything from standard passenger vehicles to larger trucks, vans, or recreational vehicles.
Commercial properties, on the other hand, often require larger doors to allow for the passage of heavy-duty vehicles, machinery, and equipment. Custom commercial garage doors can range from 20 feet up to 40 feet or more in width, and from 14 feet to 20 feet or more in height.
If your garage has a unique shape or limited space for the door to operate, a custom size can also cater to specific operational styles. For instance, you may opt for a side-hinged door that swings open like traditional barn doors, a roll-up door that saves on overhead space, or a sliding door that moves horizontally.
It’s worth noting that while custom garage doors can be made to fit almost any size, there will be practical limitations imposed by the structure of your building, the available materials, and the operation style of the door. It’s always advisable to work with an experienced garage door professional who can guide you through the process and ensure that your custom door is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Small Garage Doors Types
Small garage doors do exist and they are quite common in several applications. These smaller doors can be ideal for situations where space is limited, or where the garage is being used for storage or smaller vehicles.
Single Garage Doors:
For residential properties, the smallest standard garage door size is typically 8 feet wide and 7 feet high. This size is usually sufficient for regular cars, SUVs, and small trucks.
Golf Cart Garage Doors:
If you’re looking for an even smaller door for a golf cart or a similarly sized vehicle, golf cart garage doors usually measure around 5 feet wide and 7 feet high.
Shed or Storage Garage Doors:
If you have a storage shed or a small workshop, you might need a small garage door for easy access. These can come in a variety of sizes, depending on your needs, but a common size is 6 feet wide and 6.5 feet high.
Pedestrian Doors:
Also known as walk-through or access doors, these are small doors often built into a larger garage door. They allow for easy pedestrian access without needing to open the entire garage door. While sizes can vary, standard pedestrian doors are typically around 2.5 to 3 feet wide and 6.5 to 7 feet high.
How to Measure Your Garage Door
Measuring your garage door accurately is essential when it comes to replacing an existing door or installing a new one, particularly for custom sizes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it correctly:
Step 1: Measure the Width of the Door
First, measure the width of the opening from the middle of the left side to the middle of the right side. This measurement should be from the widest point of the opening, taking into account any finished or unfinished frames or trim. Use a measuring tape to ensure precision and note down the measurement in feet and inches.
Step 2: Measure the Height of the Door
Next, measure the height of the opening from the bottom (the garage floor) to the top of the opening. As with the width, measure from the highest point, including any finished or unfinished frames or trim. Write down this measurement.
Step 3: Measure the Side Room
This is the space on either side of the garage door opening, extending from the door opening to the end of the garage wall. You need to have enough room here for the garage door tracks. The typical requirement is about 3.75 inches on each side for a standard two-inch track.
Step 4: Measure the Headroom
The headroom is the space between the top of the door opening and the ceiling or overhead framing. This is important as it helps determine what type of garage door opener can be used. Standard headroom requirements vary based on door type and opener, but usually, you need at least 10 to 12 inches.
Step 5: Measure the Depth of the Garage
Also known as the backroom, this is the measurement from the garage door opening to the back wall of the garage. The garage door tracks extend into this space when the door is opened. Ideally, this measurement should be the door height plus an additional 18 inches.
It’s always a good idea to double-check your measurements for accuracy. Providing incorrect measurements to a garage door supplier can lead to delays and increased costs if the door needs to be returned and replaced. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable taking these measurements yourself, consider hiring a professional to do it for you.
Garage Door Maintenance and Care
aking proper care of your garage door, regardless of its size, is crucial to ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Regular maintenance not only helps prevent costly repairs but also enhances the safety of your home. Here’s a detailed guide on garage door size maintenance and care:
Regular Inspection:
- Visual Inspection: At least once a month, conduct a visual inspection of your garage door. Check for any visible signs of wear or damage, such as frayed cables, bent or broken rollers, or loose hardware. Also, look at the springs, pulleys, and cables for signs of rusting. Don’t forget to inspect the rubber seal at the bottom of your door for cracks or degradation.
- Operational Check: Open and close the door to ensure it’s operating smoothly. It should move without jerking and remain fully open or closed without drifting down or up. If it’s not, it may mean there’s an issue with the balance.
Regular Lubrication:
Garage doors consist of many moving parts that need lubrication to operate smoothly and quietly. About twice a year, apply a high-quality silicone or lithium-based grease to the rollers, hinges, tracks, and springs. Avoid using WD-40 as it’s not a lubricant but a cleaner. Don’t overdo the lubrication – a little goes a long way. Also, avoid lubricating plastic parts like plastic rollers and plastic idler bearings.
Handling Repairs for Various Sizes:
The size of your garage door can affect the type of repairs and maintenance required.
- Small Garage Doors: With smaller doors, issues can often be related to the tracks, rollers, or springs. Given their lighter weight, any disruption in balance or alignment can impact their operation. Regular inspections and prompt replacement of worn-out parts can prevent larger issues.
- Standard Garage Doors: These doors are heavier and may put more strain on the springs and opener. Be sure to regularly check the balance of the door and the tension in the springs. If your door seems heavy or the opener struggles to lift it, it might be a sign that the springs are wearing out.
- Large and Custom Garage Doors: Larger doors often require more robust hardware and powerful openers. Because these doors are heavy, never try to adjust the springs yourself as it can be dangerous. If your door isn’t working properly, it’s best to call a professional.
FAQs
Can I have a custom size for my garage door?
Yes, many manufacturers offer custom garage doors that can be made to fit any size opening. Custom doors can range in width from 8 feet up to 20 feet or more for residential properties, and up to 40 feet or more for commercial properties. The height can also be adjusted based on your specific needs.
Do smaller garage doors require less maintenance?
The size of the garage door does not necessarily dictate the level of maintenance required. All garage doors, regardless of size, should undergo regular inspection and lubrication to ensure they function properly and safely. Issues related to the tracks, springs, and balance of the door should be addressed promptly, regardless of the door’s size.
Can I install a garage door of a different size than the original?
Yes, you can install a different size garage door, but it will often require some construction work to resize the opening, which can add to the cost. It’s also crucial to ensure that the structure can support a larger door, particularly in terms of the side room, headroom, and backroom. Always consult with a professional before deciding to change the size of your garage door.
Is there a standard size for garage door panels?
The size of garage door panels can vary based on the overall door size, but they are often about 21 inches high for a standard 7-foot tall garage door. The width of the panel will match the width of the door.
Are garage door sizes universal?
While there are standard sizes for garage doors, they are not universally applicable to all situations. The ideal garage door size will depend on a variety of factors including the space available, the size of the vehicles you need to accommodate, and personal preference.
What are the typical costs of custom garage doors?
The cost of custom garage doors can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the material, size, design complexity, insulation, and additional features. Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs:
a. Material: Custom garage doors can be made from various materials like wood, steel, aluminum, or fiberglass. Wood doors tend to be more expensive, while steel and aluminum are generally more affordable.
b. Size: Larger custom doors will generally cost more than smaller ones due to the additional materials and manufacturing requirements.
c. Design Complexity: Elaborate designs, custom patterns, and unique features will add to the overall cost.
d. Insulation: Insulated garage doors are more energy-efficient but can be pricier than non-insulated ones.
e. Additional Features: Custom hardware, windows, decorative elements, and smart technology integration can also increase the cost.
As a rough estimate, the cost of a custom garage door can range anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000 or more, depending on the factors mentioned above. It’s recommended to get quotes from multiple garage door manufacturers or suppliers to compare prices and find the best option that fits your budget and preferences.
