G’day folks! If you’re pondering over which garage door to choose for your home or business, you’ve come to the right place. Getting your head around garage door sizing is crucial for selecting the right option that meets both your practical needs and aesthetic preferences. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of garage door sizes, taking a look at residential and commercial scenarios.
Standard Garage Door Sizes
Single Car Garage Doors
Single car garage doors are the most common. Here are the standard sizes you’ll likely come across:
- 8 feet wide by 7 feet high
- 8 feet wide by 8 feet high
- 9 feet wide by 7 feet high
- 9 feet wide by 8 feet high
In general, these sizes range from 7 to 8 feet in height and 8 to 10 feet in width. If you’ve got unique needs, you can find doors that rise up to 12 feet in height, although they’re less common.
Double Car Garage Doors
Double car garages are the way to go if you have a couple of vehicles or need extra wiggle room.
- 16 feet wide by 7 feet high is the go-to size.
Widths can stretch from 12 to 20 feet, and heights vary from 7 to 9 feet for this type.
Triple Car Garage Doors
For those with a triple car garage, a mix of single and double doors is often the setup of choice:
- Typically, three single doors, or
- One single door paired with a double door
Unfortunately, a single mega door isn’t a standard option yet for triple garages. But hey, maybe one day!
Measuring Your Garage Door Opening
Accuracy is key when it comes to measuring for a new garage door. A snug fit ensures optimal efficiency and functionality.
Steps to Measure Your Doorway
- Width: Measure edge to edge across the doorframe.
- Height: From the floor to the top edge of the doorframe.
- Head Height: The distance from the top of the doorframe to the ceiling. Most openers need about 14 to 18 inches of clearance.
- Side Space: From the edge of the doorway to the adjacent wall—an inch or two extra helps with sealing.
Factors to Consider
Here’s a quick rundown of what to keep in mind when selecting the garage door size for your pad or business:
Home Size and Style
For a balanced look, make sure your garage door is proportionate to your home’s overall size and design.
Garage Placement
The location can dictate size. An attached garage has different needs than one down the back of the property.
Garage Capacity
Whether you plan to stash multiple cars or need room for hobbies and storage affects the size you choose. Larger vehicles or workspaces require a bigger door.
Vehicle Dimensions
Don’t forget to measure your car! This helps ensure you can get in and out with ease, especially if you have oversized vehicles.
Storage Needs
Think about shelving, workbenches, and other items you’d like in the garage. More stuff might mean a bigger door is needed.
Energy Efficiency
Properly fitted doors help control temperature, saving you on energy bills. Smaller doors are generally better at this, due to less air transfer when opened or closed.
Custom and Non-Standard Sizes
While standard sizes cover most baselines, custom options are available if needed. Sizing beyond standards increases cost for both the door and necessary components. This is something to bear in mind if you’ve got special requirements.
Commercial Garage Doors
With commercial setups, bigger is often better, especially if accommodating larger vehicles or specific functions is your plan. Consider doors up to 30 feet wide and 32 feet high to suit all sorts of needs, ranging from regular cars to sizable work trucks and equipment.
Installation and Clearance
Headroom and Ceiling Clearance
A minimum of 6 inches of headroom is typically required, with 14 to 18 inches needed for the opener.
Side Clearance
Leave adequate space on each side of the door for ease of operation. Consider this especially if you’ve roof racks or extra-wide vehicles.
Vehicle Parking Space
Ideally, maintain at least 2 feet between vehicles in the garage. This additional space can house tools, sporting gear, and whatnot, keeping everything neat and accessible.
Building Codes and HOA Requirements
Always stay on the right side of regulations. Check for any local code requirements or homeowner association rules before finalising your choice, regarding size, style, and colour restrictions.
Professional Assistance
Getting a pro involved can make all the difference. They can guide you through choices, ensure correct measurements, and assist with installation, ensuring a hassle-free transformation of your garage front.
In the end, selecting the right garage door is more than just filling an opening. It’s about figuring out what suits your space and style best. Consider your current needs and future plans, and you’ll make an informed, satisfying decision!
