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:

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.

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:

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.

Special Factors That Can Affect Garage Door Width

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.

What Size Garage Door Opener Do I Need?

If your garage door opener is slowing down, making too much noise, or struggling to lift your door, you may need a new one. But before heading to the store or ordering online, it’s smart to ask: what size garage door opener do I need? That’s not just a question of physical space. Let’s break down the key factors that help determine the right size opener for your garage door so you can make the right decision.

Start with the Door Size and Weight

The size and weight of your garage door will directly influence the horsepower your opener needs. Most residential garage doors are either single or double doors. Single doors are lighter and typically measure 8 to 10 feet wide. Double doors can reach up to 16 feet wide and are much heavier. If your door is a standard single, a ½ horsepower opener usually works well. If it’s a double door or made of a heavy material, you’ll need more power—typically ¾ horsepower or higher.

Factor in the Door Material

Not all doors weigh the same. A lightweight aluminum or fiberglass door doesn’t need as much force to lift as a wood or insulated steel door. Heavier materials demand a stronger motor. If you have a wood door or an insulated steel model with double-layered panels, don’t cut corners. Go with at least a ¾ horsepower opener. Skimping here will wear out your opener quickly and create more noise during operation.

Don’t Forget About Noise

A smaller opener that isn’t strong enough will make more noise. That’s because it struggles to lift the door each time. On the other hand, more powerful motors, like 1 horsepower units, may create more sound due to the bigger motor itself. If your garage is attached to your home and shares walls with a bedroom or living space, consider how much noise matters to you. Belt drive openers are quieter than chain drives, and a properly sized motor will run smoother with less strain.

Consider Your Space

Larger openers with higher horsepower motors may take up more ceiling space. If you already have storage racks or low clearance in your garage, make sure you measure first. Wall-mounted openers, also called jackshaft openers, can help if space is tight. They mount beside the door instead of on the ceiling and work well for garages with high or sloped ceilings.

Balance Cost and Durability

It’s tempting to buy a cheaper opener with less horsepower to save money upfront. But that often leads to higher repair costs later. An undersized opener has to work harder, which can burn out the motor or strip the gears. Higher horsepower openers tend to last longer because they don’t strain as much.

Types of Garage Door Openers

There are three common types of openers, and they each serve different needs:

Chain Drive

These are sturdy and affordable. A metal chain lifts the door. They’re great for detached garages where noise isn’t an issue.

Belt Drive

These use a rubber belt instead of a chain, so they’re much quieter. They cost more, but they’re a great choice for attached garages.

Screw Drive

Screw drive models use a threaded steel rod to lift and lower the door. They’re fast and have fewer moving parts, but they can be louder in cold weather.

Horsepower Options and What They Mean

If you're still determining what size garage door opener you need, horsepower is the key spec to look at. Matching the right horsepower to your door type gives you better performance, longer life, and less hassle.

Time to Upgrade Your Opener? We Can Help

If you're still unsure about what size garage door opener you need, it might be time for a professional opinion. Interstate Garage Doors installs and services garage door openers of all types and sizes. Whether you're dealing with a heavy wood door or a lightweight aluminum one, our team can recommend and install the right opener for your needs. Call us at 717-263-3150 or fill out our online form to schedule an estimate or installation. Let's make sure your garage door works smoothly, quietly, and reliably.

How to Replace a Garage Door Opener

Garage door openers work hard every day. They lift, lower, and secure your garage with the press of a button. But like any machine, they wear out. If yours starts making odd noises, stops responding, or has safety features that no longer work, it might be time for a new one. Knowing how to replace a garage door opener can save you a lot of time and stress, especially if the old one quits unexpectedly.

Know When It’s Time to Replace

If your opener still works but feels sluggish, or if the remote only works occasionally, start paying closer attention. Older models may lack safety sensors or rolling-code technology, both of which protect your home. A garage door opener that vibrates heavily or makes grinding sounds is likely nearing the end of its service life.

In some cases, repair makes sense. But if the motor is failing or the unit is over 15 years old, it’s usually smarter to replace it altogether. You’ll get a quieter, more reliable machine along with updated features like smartphone controls or battery backup.

Choose the Right Type of Opener

Before learning how to replace a garage door opener, figure out which type you need. There are three main styles:

Also consider horsepower. Most residential garage doors work fine with a ½ horsepower motor, but heavier doors may need ¾ horsepower or more.

Gather the Tools You’ll Need

Replacing a garage door opener takes a few hours. You’ll need:

If the existing opener uses the same mounting style, you might reuse parts of the system. If not, plan on installing everything from scratch.

Remove the Old Garage Door Opener

  1. Start by unplugging the old opener and disconnecting the garage door from the opener rail. Most systems use a pull cord that releases the trolley. 
  2. Once that’s done, remove the mounting brackets holding the opener motor to the ceiling. Lower the unit carefully. Don’t let it drop or tilt, especially if it's still wired into the ceiling. 
  3. Remove the wall control and safety sensor wiring next.

Install the New Opener

  1. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your new model, but most openers follow a similar layout. Start by assembling the rail and attaching it to the motor. Once that’s secure, mount the rail to the header bracket above the garage door.
  2. Lift the motor unit into place and attach it to the ceiling joists using angle iron or the included mounting straps. Make sure the unit is level and properly supported. Don’t skip the safety sensors. Those are required by law and prevent the door from closing on pets, kids, or anything else in its path.
  3. Reconnect the door arm to the trolley and test the up and down movement. Adjust the limits so the door closes snugly without slamming and opens fully without straining.

Set Up the Controls and Safety Features

  1. Most modern openers include wall-mounted controls, wireless remotes, and sometimes Wi-Fi or app support. Program these based on your model. Many systems include a keypad for outdoor access, which you’ll mount near the garage door.
  2. Install the safety reversing sensors near the bottom of the garage door tracks. These sensors must face each other and be aligned properly. If they’re out of line, the door won’t close.
  3. Check the auto-reverse feature by placing a block under the door and pressing close. The door should reverse as soon as it touches the block.

Do A Final Test

Before calling it done, check everything. Run the opener several times to make sure the door moves smoothly and quietly. Watch for any jerky movement, loud grinding, or misalignment. If anything feels off, go back and adjust the settings.

Ready to Upgrade Your Garage Door Opener? We Can Help.

Replacing an opener might seem simple, but small mistakes can lead to big problems later, especially if the door doesn’t open or close properly. If you want to skip the hassle or you run into snags mid-project, call Interstate Garage Doors. Our trained technicians install new openers quickly and correctly, so your system works right the first time. Call 717-263-3150 or fill out our online form to schedule service or request a quote.

How to Find Your Garage Door Model Number

Most garage doors don’t wear their identity on their sleeve. If your garage door needs a repair or replacement part, one of the first questions any technician will ask is: “What’s the model number?” If you don’t have that information ready, you could end up ordering the wrong part, wasting time, and delaying service. Knowing exactly how to find your garage door type model number will save you frustration and help speed up the repair or replacement process.

Why the Model Number Matters

The model number of your garage door tells you the make, style, material, insulation type, and sometimes even the color. This number helps technicians match parts correctly and make recommendations that fit your exact door. Not every hinge, panel, or spring works with every model. If you guess, you’re likely to get it wrong.

Start with the Garage Door Manual

If your garage door was installed by a professional, the installer might have left behind a user manual or installation packet. This packet often contains a sticker or printout with your door’s model number and specifications. If you can’t find the manual, don’t worry. There are still several ways to identify your garage door model number directly from the door itself.

Check the Inside of the Door

Look for the Manufacturer’s Label

Most garage doors have a sticker placed on the inside of the top panel. Stand inside your garage with the door closed and check the top left, top right, or center of the panel closest to the ceiling. Use a flashlight if needed.

The label might include:

This label is usually placed where it’s protected from weather and visible during regular inspections. Once you find it, write down the entire string of numbers and letters. Some model numbers look similar, and small differences matter.

Don’t Overlook the Track

Some manufacturers, like Clopay, place model and serial numbers on the vertical track near the bottom. Look for a label or sticker facing toward the inside of the garage, near the roller bracket or safety tag. If you spot it, take a photo. These labels can fade over time, especially in garages with a lot of sunlight or moisture.

No Label? Use These Clues to Identify the Model

If the label has worn off or was never installed, you can still get a good idea of your garage door type and model number by gathering a few key details.

Check the Sections and Panel Design

Count the number of panels or sections in the door and note the pattern. Is it short panel, long panel, or flush? Does it have windows? If so, where are they located? Some models are only available in certain panel layouts or window designs.

Measure the Door

Write down the exact width and height of the door. This helps narrow down the product line and will be important when checking manufacturer catalogs or contacting a service company.

Material and Insulation

Is your door steel, aluminum, or wood? Knock on it to check thickness. Some steel doors are hollow, while others are insulated with polystyrene or polyurethane foam. Look at the side of the door for clues. Insulated doors often have a sandwich-style panel with a sealed edge. Knowing these details won’t give you the exact model, but they will help a technician narrow it down and cross-check manufacturer specs.

Contact the Manufacturer If Needed

If your garage door has a brand name visible (like Haas, Clopay, Wayne Dalton, or CHI), visit their website and check for product identification tools. Many manufacturers offer support pages where you can enter part of a serial number or browse by door style.

Still not sure? Take a clear photo of the door from the outside and inside, then email it to customer support. Be sure to include measurements and any other details you’ve gathered. Most support teams can help you track down the correct model.

Model Number vs. Serial Number

Model numbers and serial numbers are not the same thing. A model number tells you the product line and style. A serial number is unique to your door and may include manufacturing date and batch information. Both can be helpful, but the model number is what you need when ordering parts or requesting service. If the only thing you can find is the serial number, try searching that number online with the manufacturer’s name. Some serial numbers decode directly to the model number.

Don’t Let Confusion Cause a Delay. Call Us Today!

If you're still not sure how to find your garage door model number or you’d rather leave the detective work to someone else, Interstate Garage Doors is ready to help. Our team can identify your garage door model, recommend the right parts, and complete repairs quickly. Call 717-263-3150 or fill out our online contact form to schedule service. We’ve helped thousands of homeowners across Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia and we’re ready to help you.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Align Garage Door Sensors

Garage doors rely on small details to work safely. One of the most important parts of the system sits just a few inches above the floor: the garage door sensors. When these sensors aren’t aligned correctly, the door may not close, may reverse mid-close, or might stop altogether. Learning how to align garage door sensors can save time, prevent unnecessary repairs, and keep your garage door operating safely.

What Garage Door Sensors Do

Garage door sensors prevent the door from closing on a person, pet, or object. They use a beam of infrared light to detect anything in the door’s path. If something breaks the beam, the system tells the garage door opener to stop or reverse. The sensors work in pairs. One sensor sends the beam, and the other receives it. If that signal gets interrupted or if the sensors fall out of alignment, the garage door won't function properly.

Where to Find the Sensors

Garage door sensors sit on each side of the door, about 4 to 6 inches above the ground. They’re mounted on the vertical track or bracket that supports the door’s rollers. Each sensor has a small lens and indicator light. One light stays green to show the receiving sensor is powered and aligned. The other usually glows orange or yellow to confirm the sending sensor is functioning. If either light is blinking or off, that’s a red flag.

Signs Your Garage Door Sensors Are Out of Alignment

A misaligned sensor pair is one of the most common reasons garage doors won’t close. If you notice any of these signs, the sensors likely need adjustment:

If the door closes only when you hold the wall button, the sensors are trying to prevent what they think is an unsafe close. They need to be realigned.

What Causes Garage Door Sensors to Misalign

Sensors don’t shift on their own unless something bumps them or something interferes with the brackets. Here are the most common causes:

Checking these problems before calling for a repair can help you get your door working faster.

How to Align Garage Door Sensors

Knowing how to align garage door sensors starts with a simple check and adjustment process. All you will need is a screwdriver, some string, and a little patience.

Step 1: Inspect

Inspect both sensor lenses. Wipe away dust or debris with a clean cloth. Check the wires for damage and make sure they are securely connected.  

Step 2: Check the Brackets and Mounts

Look for any signs of bent brackets or loose screws. Tighten everything down so the sensors sit snugly in their mounts. You should be able to gently adjust them side to side without force.

Step 3: Use a String to Line Them Up

Tie a piece of string from one sensor to the other. Stretch it tight so it runs across both sensor lenses. Use a level to check the string. Adjust the sensors up or down so they’re perfectly in line with the string and each other. Once aligned, the sensor lights should turn solid, showing the signal is connected.

Step 4: Test the Door

Press the remote or wall button. If the sensors are aligned correctly, the door should close smoothly without stopping or reversing. If the lights continue blinking or the door still won’t close, double-check the alignment and clean the lenses again. Sometimes, it takes a few small tweaks to get it just right.

Why Proper Sensor Alignment Matters

Garage door sensors aren’t just a safety feature. They’re required by law on all automatic garage doors built since 1993. If they aren’t working correctly, the door poses a serious hazard. Learning how to align garage door sensors gives you control over a common problem that doesn’t always need professional service. But if you’ve tried aligning them and the lights still won’t stay solid, the issue might be deeper. Bad wiring, damaged sensor units, or a faulty garage door opener can also cause problems.

Need a Hand? Let’s Get Your Door Working Again

Garage doors work best when every part is in sync, and sensors are no exception. If you’ve gone through the steps and your sensors still aren’t working right, it may be time to call in some extra help. Interstate Garage Doors services all makes and models of garage door openers and sensors. Call 717-263-3150 or fill out our online form to schedule fast and friendly service. We’ll get your garage door working the way it should. Smooth, safe, and hassle-free.

We are your trusted Garage Door Professionals for in MD, WV, and PA for garage door replacement or repairs.

How Do You Adjust the Height of A Garage Door

Garage doors don’t just go up and down—they need to move smoothly, stop where they should, and close fully without slamming. If your garage door opens too far or doesn’t close all the way, it can create problems ranging from security issues to damage on the door itself. So, how do you adjust the height of a garage door? Learning how to do this can help you fix small issues, but it’s not always a job to take lightly. There’s tension, hardware, and electrical components involved, so you’ll want to approach this carefully. Let’s break down how height adjustments work and how to know when it’s time to bring in a professional.

Know What You’re Working With

Garage doors use one of two systems: torsion spring or extension spring. Torsion spring systems sit above the door and twist to lift it. Extension springs run along the sides and stretch to provide lift. The type of system matters because each one uses different methods to control how far the door travels.

If you’re adjusting the height to fix an issue like a gap at the bottom, a door that opens too high, or one that stops too soon, you’ll need to check both the opener settings and the door’s hardware. Don’t make changes until you understand which part needs adjusting.

Adjusting the Open and Close Limits on Your Opener

How do you adjust the height of a garage door? ​If your door is powered by an automatic opener, you’ll find that most modern systems have limit screws or dials that control how far the door travels when opening or closing. These controls are often located on the back or side of the motor housing.

Steps to Adjust Travel Limits

  1. Unplug the opener. Safety first. Disconnect the opener from the power source.
  2. Locate the limit settings. Most openers use labeled adjustment screws or knobs: “up” for opening height, and “down” for closing height.
  3. Turn the screw. A small flathead screwdriver usually works. Turn the screw in small increments, about a quarter turn at a time.
  4. Test the door. Plug the opener back in and run the door. Repeat until it stops where you want it to.

Keep an eye on the door's movement. If it starts opening too fast, slamming down, or acting strange, stop right away. You could be putting extra strain on the motor or door. At this point if you start to feel unsure about what step to take next, don't hesitate to call a professional.

Spring Adjustments Are Risky Without Proper Tools

You might think the springs are the next thing to tweak if the opener settings don’t fix the issue. But this is where things get risky. Torsion springs hold a huge amount of tension, and adjusting them without the right tools or training can lead to serious injury.

How do you adjust the height of a garage door with spring tension? If you’re asking that, and you don’t already have winding bars and safety gear, it’s probably not something you want to take on yourself. Spring tension directly affects the balance of the door, which in turn affects how high it opens and how well it closes. Trying to adjust springs with makeshift tools or without knowing the tension level can easily lead to damage, or worse, injury.

Tracks, Cables, and Manual Stops

Sometimes, the issue isn’t the opener or springs. If your garage door isn’t reaching the ground or is stopping too early, it might be binding in the tracks or catching on worn-out cables. Rollers that are misaligned or tracks that have shifted can block the door from reaching its full height.

Some garage doors also have mechanical stop bolts that physically limit how far the door can travel. These are usually found on commercial doors or older models. If one of these is loose or has moved, it could stop your door short or let it go too high.

Know When It’s Time to Call a Pro

You might be able to handle opener adjustments with a screwdriver, but anything involving springs, tracks, or cables should be left to a professional. Misjudging even one part of the adjustment can lead to more damage or serious safety issues. Technicians with the right training and equipment can diagnose the issue and fix it without putting your home or safety at risk.

Get a Free Estimate and Fix Your Door the Right Way

If your garage door is going too high, not high enough, or slamming shut, don't let it go unchecked. Interstate Garage Doors has seen it all and we know exactly how to fix any garage door problem you may be experiencing. We service residential and commercial doors across South Central Pennsylvania, Hagerstown, Maryland, and Martinsburg, West Virginia. Call 717-263-3150 or request a free estimate for a repair or adjustment today. We'll get your garage door working exactly how it should; safe, smooth, and quiet.

Get a free estimate from a garage door expert, contact us today!

How Much Is a New Garage Door? Here’s What Affects Garage Door Prices

A garage door isn't just an entry point. The right door enhances your home's curb appeal, boosts security, and improves energy efficiency. Whether you're upgrading for aesthetics or replacing a worn-out door, knowing what affects the price is essential. So, how much is a new garage door? Prices vary based on several factors, including material, style, and installation costs. Understanding these details can help you choose a door that fits your budget and needs.

Factors Influencing the Cost of a New Garage Door

Understanding the elements that affect garage door pricing can help you make an informed decision.

1. Material Selection

The material of the garage door plays a significant role in its cost, appearance, durability, and maintenance requirements. Some materials are more affordable but may require more upkeep, while others offer longevity with a higher upfront investment.

2. Door Type and Design

The style and operation of the garage door impact both aesthetics and cost. Choosing a design that complements your home’s architecture can add to its curb appeal, while certain door mechanisms may require a larger budget.

3. Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Garage doors with insulation help regulate temperature, reduce noise, and improve energy efficiency. Insulated doors generally cost more but provide long-term savings on heating and cooling.

4. Installation and Labor Costs

Labor costs for garage door installation vary based on the complexity of the job and location. Professional installation ensures proper operation, safety, and longevity.

Get a New Garage Door That Fits Your Budget

A new garage door is an investment that adds value to your home. Pricing depends on material, design, insulation, and installation costs, so if you would like to know how much a new garage door will cost you, reach out to the pros at Interstate Garage Doors for a custom estimate. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a custom design, we can help you find the right fit. Call 717-263-3150 or fill out our online form to get a quote and schedule an installation today.

We are Garage Door Professionals contact us today!