Garage Door Sizes: Finding the Right Fit for Your Garage
Planning a new garage or replacing an existing door? One of the most important choices you'll make is the size. Choosing the wrong width can lead to tight parking, damaged mirrors, or not enough space to move around. Whether you're building new, remodeling, or just trying to solve an everyday headache, getting the size right matters.
Understanding Standard Garage Door Sizes
Most homes use either a single-car or double-car garage door, and these sizes have stayed fairly consistent across the board.
Common Widths for Single-Car Garages
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common sizes:
- 8 feet wide – Best for small cars and tight spaces
- 9 feet wide – Most common single-car size for modern vehicles
- 10 feet wide – Great for added clearance and comfort
Single-car doors usually measure 8, 9, or 10 feet wide. An 8-foot door works for compact cars and smaller vehicles, while 9 feet has become the go-to for mid-size sedans and SUVs. Some garages offer 10 feet of width, which adds extra clearance and makes parking more comfortable, especially for wider vehicles.
How Wide is a Two Car Garage?
Double-car garage doors are designed to comfortably fit two vehicles, but even within that category, size makes a difference. If you're wondering how wide a two car garage door should be, you're likely choosing between 16 and 18 feet.
- 16 feet wide – Fits two average cars with limited space on each side
- 18 feet wide – Allows easier movement and more breathing room
- 20 feet or wider – Ideal for large trucks, wide vehicles, or extra storage
Some homeowners choose a 20-foot door or larger for extra flexibility, especially when parking large trucks or using part of the garage for storage or workspace.
Garage Door Widths for Large Vehicles and Extra Storage
Your garage door should match your lifestyle and the size of your vehicles. Having an extra wide garage door is helpful for:
- Pickup trucks and SUVs – Aim for at least 18 feet on a double door
- Commercial vans – May require taller and wider custom doors
- RVs – Often need 20 feet or more, plus extra height
- Boat and trailer storage – Measure both the trailer and the turn radius
Measuring for the Best Fit
Before you choose a size, take the time to measure your garage carefully.
Measure the Garage Opening
Start by measuring the width and height of the actual opening, not the frame, trim, or the full garage wall. Measure in multiple spots to catch any uneven areas.
Watch for Obstructions
Check for obstacles like light fixtures, pipes, shelving, or electrical boxes. These can all impact the type of door or track system you can install.
Don’t Forget the Door Track
Different types of garage doors need different track systems. You’ll need enough ceiling space for the track and the opener. Measure the depth of the garage as well as the headroom above the opening.
Make Room for Clearance
Give yourself room to walk around parked vehicles, open car doors, and move items in and out. Clearance matters just as much as the door itself.
Match Your Home’s Style
The size of your garage door also affects curb appeal. A well-proportioned door looks balanced and adds value to your home.
How Style Can Impact Garage Door Width
Different garage door styles may have unique frame requirements or thicknesses that change how they function.
- Raised Panel Doors: The most common style in residential neighborhoods, these usually fit standard track systems and work with any of the common widths.
- Carriage House Doors: These have decorative hardware and often thicker panels. They may need extra side clearance, so plan for that if you’re considering this traditional look.
- Modern Aluminum and Glass Doors: These sleek, contemporary doors can be heavier and may have custom width needs depending on the design.
- Roll-Up Doors: Often used for commercial garages or storage spaces, these roll into a compact coil above the opening. They’re great for saving space but may need extra headroom.
Special Factors That Can Affect Garage Door Width
- Unusual Garage Layouts: If your garage has a unique shape or size, custom doors might be your best option. Wide openings or offset designs need extra planning.
- Architectural Design: Garage doors that are too narrow or too wide can throw off your home’s look. The goal is a door that looks balanced and functions well.
- Accessibility Features: If someone in your home uses a wheelchair, walker, or mobility device, wider doors can make entry and exit safer and easier.
- Commercial Needs: Businesses and industrial garages often use oversized or specialty doors. Rolling steel doors and sectional doors come in wider custom sizes for those applications.
Let’s Get the Right Door on Your Garage
You don’t need to guess or settle for something that almost works. Interstate Garage Doors will help you choose the perfect size and style for your home, your vehicles, and your lifestyle. Call 717-263-3150 or fill out our online form to get started. Let’s make your garage work better, starting with the right door.