What Is The Standard Size For A 2 Car Garage Door?
If you’re looking to install a new garage door for your 2 car garage, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is what size to get. The right dimensions are important for both functionality and appearance.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: the standard width for a 2 car garage door is 16 feet wide, with a height of 7 or 8 feet. Doors come in modular sizes, so a 16×7 or 16×8 foot door are the most common choices.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about standard 2 car garage door sizes. We’ll look at common width and height options, door styles that affect size, how to measure your garage opening, clearance and overhead considerations, and much more.
With the right information, you’ll be able to select the perfect new garage door for your home.
Typical Widths for 2 Car Garage Doors
16 Feet Wide
A common standard size for a 2 car garage door is 16 feet wide. This width allows for two vehicles to comfortably park side by side without any obstructions. Additionally, it provides enough space for easy entry and exit for both vehicles.
Garage doors with a width of 16 feet are widely available and can be found in various styles and materials to match any home’s aesthetic.
18 Feet Wide
In some cases, homeowners may opt for a slightly wider 2 car garage door, typically measuring 18 feet wide. This extra width can be beneficial for larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, as it provides more space for maneuvering and parking.
It also allows for additional storage or workshop space within the garage. While 18 feet wide garage doors may not be as common as the standard 16 feet wide doors, they are still readily available from many manufacturers.
14 or 15 Feet Wide
For homes with limited space or for those who do not need to accommodate larger vehicles, 2 car garage doors with a width of 14 or 15 feet may be suitable. These narrower options are often found in urban areas or older homes where space is at a premium.
While they may not offer as much room for parking or storage, they can still provide adequate space for two smaller vehicles.
Custom Widths
In addition to the standard widths mentioned above, it is also possible to have a 2 car garage door custom-made to fit specific dimensions. This can be particularly useful for homeowners with unique needs or non-standard garage layouts.
Custom-width garage doors can be manufactured to accommodate wider vehicles, provide additional storage space, or match the architectural style of the home. It is recommended to consult with a professional garage door installer to determine the best custom width for your specific requirements.
For more information on garage door sizes and options, you can visit websites like Clopay or Home Depot that offer a wide range of garage doors and helpful resources for homeowners.
Common Heights for 2 Car Garage Doors
When it comes to the standard size for a 2 car garage door, there are a few common heights that you’ll come across. These heights are designed to accommodate most vehicles and provide easy access to your garage. Let’s take a closer look at the different options available:
7 Foot Tall
A 7-foot tall garage door is one of the most common choices for residential properties. It provides enough clearance for most cars and SUVs to enter and exit comfortably. This height is ideal for homeowners who have standard-sized vehicles and don’t require any additional space above the door for storage or other purposes.
8 Foot Tall
If you have a larger vehicle or need extra clearance for storage racks or tall equipment, an 8-foot tall garage door might be a better option for you. This size is becoming increasingly popular as more homeowners invest in larger vehicles, such as trucks or vans.
It provides additional vertical space and ensures that you won’t have any issues maneuvering your vehicle into the garage.
Custom Heights
In some cases, standard heights may not meet your specific requirements. If you have a unique vehicle or need a garage door with a different height, you can opt for a custom-sized door. Many garage door manufacturers offer custom options to accommodate your needs.
Whether you need a taller door for an RV or a shorter door to fit a compact car, a custom-sized garage door can be tailored to your exact specifications.
It’s important to note that while these heights are common, they may vary depending on your location and the specific regulations in your area. It’s always a good idea to check with local building codes or consult a professional garage door installer to ensure that you are meeting the requirements and getting the right size for your needs.
Door Styles That Impact Size
When it comes to 2 car garage doors, there are several different door styles that can impact the size of the door. Each style offers its own unique features and benefits, so it’s important to understand how they may affect the overall dimensions of your garage.
Retractable Doors
Retractable doors are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their sleek and modern design. These doors are typically made up of horizontal panels that retract into the garage when opened. The size of a retractable garage door can vary depending on the specific manufacturer and model, but they are generally available in standard sizes ranging from 16 feet to 18 feet wide and 7 feet to 8 feet tall.
One Piece Tilt-Up Doors
One piece tilt-up doors are another style of garage door that can impact the size of the opening. These doors are made from a single panel that tilts up and slides into the garage when opened. The size of a one piece tilt-up door can vary, but they are typically available in standard sizes ranging from 8 feet to 9 feet wide and 7 feet to 8 feet tall.
Carriage House Doors
Carriage house doors are known for their classic and elegant appearance, often mimicking the look of old-fashioned carriage house doors. These doors are typically made up of multiple sections that swing out when opened.
The size of a carriage house door can vary depending on the specific style and manufacturer, but they are generally available in standard sizes ranging from 16 feet to 18 feet wide and 7 feet to 8 feet tall.
It’s worth noting that while these are the standard sizes for 2 car garage doors, custom sizes are also available to accommodate unique garage dimensions. If you’re unsure about the size of your garage door or if you’re looking for a specific size that isn’t mentioned here, it’s always best to consult with a professional garage door installer who can provide expert guidance and recommendations.
Measuring Your Existing Garage Door Opening
Before you start looking for a new garage door, it’s important to accurately measure the size of your existing garage door opening. This will ensure that you purchase a door that fits perfectly and functions properly.
There are three key measurements to take into consideration: the width, height, and backroom of your garage door opening.
Width
The width of your garage door opening is an essential measurement. To determine the width, measure the distance between the left and right sides of the opening. It’s important to measure in multiple places, as garages aren’t always perfectly square.
Take the smallest measurement to ensure that your new garage door will fit correctly. Standard 2 car garage doors typically have a width between 14 and 18 feet, but it’s always best to confirm the specific dimensions of your own garage.
Height
The height of your garage door opening is equally important. Measure from the floor to the highest point of the opening. Again, take multiple measurements to ensure accuracy, and use the smallest measurement when ordering a new door.
Standard 2 car garage doors typically have a height of 7 to 8 feet, but some garages may have higher ceilings that allow for taller doors. It’s important to take into consideration any obstructions, such as light fixtures or shelving, that may affect the height of the door.
Backroom
The backroom measurement refers to the depth of your garage. It’s the distance from the opening to the back wall. This measurement is important to ensure that there is enough space for the garage door and any additional hardware, such as tracks and openers.
Standard 2 car garage doors typically require a backroom depth of at least 12 to 18 inches. However, if you’re planning to install a garage door opener, you may need to allow for additional space.
By accurately measuring the width, height, and backroom of your existing garage door opening, you’ll be able to find a new door that fits perfectly. If you’re unsure about how to take these measurements or if you have any other questions, it’s always best to consult with a professional garage door installer.
They will be able to provide expert guidance and ensure that you choose the right size door for your needs.
Clearance Considerations
Headroom
When it comes to the standard size for a 2 car garage door, one important consideration is headroom. Headroom refers to the space between the top of the garage door opening and the ceiling or any obstructions above.
This clearance is crucial for the proper operation of the garage door and the safe passage of vehicles.
The recommended minimum headroom for a 2 car garage door is typically around 12 inches. However, it is important to note that this measurement may vary depending on the type of garage door system being used. For example, overhead doors may require more headroom than sectional doors.
It is always best to consult with a professional garage door installer to ensure the correct headroom clearance for your specific situation.
Sideroom
In addition to headroom, another important consideration for the standard size of a 2 car garage door is sideroom. Sideroom refers to the space on either side of the garage door opening, from the wall to the edge of the opening.
Sufficient sideroom is necessary for the proper installation and operation of the garage door system.
The recommended minimum sideroom for a 2 car garage door is typically around 5-6 inches on each side. This allows for the installation of the necessary hardware and tracks, as well as the movement of the garage door without any obstructions.
Again, it is always advisable to consult with a professional installer to determine the specific sideroom requirements for your garage door system.
For more detailed information on garage door clearances and installation requirements, you can visit websites such as www.garaga.com or www.clopaydoor.com. These websites provide comprehensive resources and expert advice on garage door sizing and installation.
Overhead Obstructions
When it comes to installing a 2 car garage door, one important consideration is the presence of any overhead obstructions. These can include things like low-hanging branches, roof overhangs, or any other structures that may obstruct the path of the garage door when it is fully opened.
Before installing a garage door, it is essential to measure the height of the garage opening as well as the distance between the top of the opening and any potential obstructions. This will ensure that the chosen door size will not be hindered by any overhead obstructions.
It’s important to note that different garage door manufacturers may have different recommendations for overhead clearances. It’s always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s specifications and guidelines for the specific door model you are considering.
Measuring for Overhead Obstructions
To measure for overhead obstructions, start by measuring the height of the garage opening from the floor to the header or the highest point of the opening. This will give you the maximum height available for the garage door.
Next, measure the distance between the top of the opening and any potential obstructions. This can be done using a tape measure or a laser level. Make sure to take accurate measurements and consider any future changes or additions that may affect the clearance.
It’s recommended to add a few inches of clearance to the measured height to ensure that the garage door can operate smoothly without any obstructions or damage. This additional clearance can vary depending on the specific situation and the recommendations of the manufacturer.
Consulting a Professional
If you are unsure about measuring for overhead obstructions or if you have complex or unique circumstances, it’s always best to consult a professional garage door installer. They have the expertise and experience to assess your specific situation and provide you with the most accurate measurements and recommendations.
Remember, a properly installed garage door will not only provide convenience and security but also enhance the overall appearance and value of your home. Taking the time to consider overhead obstructions and measure accurately will help ensure a seamless installation process.
For more information and guidelines on measuring for overhead obstructions and installing a 2 car garage door, you can visit websites such as Home Depot or Garaga.
Conclusion
When shopping for a new 2 car garage door, being armed with the standard size information can help you choose the right dimensions for your home. Consider the typical 16×7 or 16×8 foot options, but also measure your exact opening size and factor in ceiling height, clearance, and overhead obstructions.
This will ensure your new door operates smoothly and maximizes your garage space. With the right measurements and preparation, installing a properly sized 2 car garage door that looks and functions beautifully will be a breeze.
