What Are the Standard Garage Door Sizes

Having the right door size is essential. Much like ensuring you have the proper fit and finish in other areas of the home—such as when you’re trying to decorate patios to create a welcoming outdoor space or exploring small kitchen design ideas—measuring accurately and considering standard sizes will help you maintain both form and function.

How to Measure a Garage Door

Getting an accurate measurement for your garage door involves more than just checking the height and width:

1. Rough Opening:
   Measure the width at the widest point and add about an inch per side. For the height, take measurements at the center and each side, then use the smallest measurement plus an extra inch for insulation needs.
2. Side Room:
   Account for the space on both sides of the rough opening. Many track systems need around 3 3/4 inches per side, though some require up to 5 1/2 inches.
3. Headroom:
   Measure from the top of the door opening to the ceiling. Standard systems often need about 10 to 12 inches, plus an extra 3 inches if you have a door opener.
4. Backroom:
   Extend your measuring tape from the garage door opening to the back wall. Typically, you’ll need door height plus 18 inches, though this can vary with different opener types.

Standard Single Garage Door Sizes

Single garage doors commonly come in:

• 8 feet wide by 7 feet high
• 9 feet wide by 7 feet high
• 16 feet wide by 7 feet high

Whether you’re dealing with an attached or detached garage, these standard dimensions fit most single-car spaces.

Standard Double Garage Door Sizes

For two-car households, double doors are often:

• 16 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet high

Some designs incorporate two single doors separated by a post, while others use one large door. Both approaches can work well—just remember that two single doors might each require their own opener, potentially affecting cost and convenience.

Custom Garage Door Sizes

If you own an RV, large truck, or have unconventional garage dimensions, custom door sizes are a smart solution. Taller doors, measuring 10 feet or more, can accommodate oversized vehicles or roof racks that wouldn’t fit under standard heights.

Door Thickness and Insulation

Garage door thickness influences insulation and energy efficiency:

• Thin steel panels (about 1/8 inch): Budget-friendly but no real insulation.
• Basic insulation (1/4 to 1/2 inch foam): Adds some energy efficiency.
• High-quality insulation (1 to 1 1/2 inches foam): Best for regulating temperature and noise.

Decide on insulation based on how you plan to use your garage. If it’s primarily for storage or vehicles, a thinner option might be fine. If you’re turning it into a workspace, consider better insulation.

Think about more than just fitting your car. Consider how you use your garage—storage, hobbies, or even as a workshop. An appropriately sized door can make navigating these activities easier.