Discover the standard and custom sizes of single garage doors. Learn about the factors that influence garage door width and find the perfect fit for your home.
Understanding garage door dimensions is essential when building, remodeling, or replacing a garage door. One of the most frequently asked questions by homeowners is, “How wide is a single garage door?” Knowing the correct width ensures your garage functions efficiently, accommodates your vehicle, and aligns with structural limitations. Martin Garage Door offers expert advice on finding the ideal size.
This guide explains the standard, minimum, and custom widths for single garage doors, along with measurement tips and important considerations for choosing the right size. Whether you’re building a new garage or replacing an existing door, Martin Garage Door can help you select the perfect fit for your home.
What Is the Standard Width for a Single Garage Door?
The standard width for a single garage door typically ranges from 8 to 10 feet. The most commonly installed size in new homes is 9 feet wide by 7 feet high. This dimension accommodates standard sedans and small SUVs and is considered the industry benchmark for single-vehicle garage bays.
Popular Single Garage Door Dimensions
- 8 feet x 7 feet – Found in older homes or smaller garages.
- 9 feet x 7 feet – The current national average.
- 10 feet x 7 feet – Used for larger single-vehicle or storage-based garages.
What Is the Minimum Width for a Single Garage Door?
The minimum practical width for a single garage door is 7 feet. Doors below this size are rare and generally found in older or specialized structures. While a compact vehicle can fit through a 7-foot-wide opening, it limits clearance on both sides, making daily use less convenient.
Limitations of minimum-width doors:
- Restricted entry space for SUVs or trucks.
- Reduced maneuverability in tight spaces.
- Not suitable for dual-purpose storage areas.
How Wide Can a Single Garage Door Be?
While the standard width tops out at 10 feet, custom single garage doors can be as wide as 12 feet. Wider garage doors are often used for specialty needs such as:
- Extra-wide vehicles (trucks, vans, RVs).
- Workshops or garages with attached storage.
- Homes where double garage doors are not feasible.
Considerations for wider doors:
- It may require reinforced framing.
- The opener and torsion system must support increased weight.
- Additional clearance and track space are needed.
Factors That Affect How Wide Your Garage Door Should Be
Several factors determine the ideal width for a single garage door:
Vehicle Size and Usage
Compact cars typically require a minimum of 8 feet for garage door width, providing enough space for easy entry and exit. However, trucks and SUVs are better suited for 9 to 10 feet wide doors, offering adequate clearance for larger vehicles, including side mirrors and extended frames.
Garage Configuration
Consider how your garage is used when selecting the right door size. If your garage is shared with storage space, a wider door may be necessary for ease of access. Additionally, ensure you account for the need for extra clearance for doors, side mirrors, or other vehicle features that may extend beyond the car.
Driveway Access and Angles
If your driveway has a limited turning radius or sharp angles, you may need a wider garage door for smooth entry and exit. A wider entry ensures you have sufficient room to maneuver larger vehicles comfortably without the risk of scraping or damaging your vehicle or garage structure.
Local Codes and HOA Regulations
Before installing a new garage door, it’s essential to check local building codes and any HOA regulations that may affect your decision. Many areas have specific rules regarding garage door sizes, design, and placement. Complying with these regulations ensures your project is completed without legal or approval issues.
How to Accurately Measure for a Single Garage Door
Accurate measurement is essential to ensure the garage door fits the opening and operates safely.
What you’ll need:
- Tape measure
- Ladder (if needed)
- Pen and paper
Measurement Steps:
- Width: Measure the opening from one side to the other (finished opening).
- Height: Measure from the floor to the lowest point of the opening.
- Headroom: Measure space above the opening to accommodate the track system.
- Side Room: Measure space on both sides for track mounting.
Always measure twice and consult with a garage door technician before ordering.
Should You Go With a Standard or Custom Size?
Most homeowners opt for a standard 8 or 9-foot width unless specific needs dictate otherwise. However, custom widths are appropriate when:
- The garage opening deviates from standard framing.
- Larger or specialty vehicles are stored inside.
- The garage serves multiple purposes (e.g., workshop or storage).
Custom garage doors typically cost more due to design, hardware, and installation complexity.
Does Garage Door Width Impact Performance or Usability?
Yes. Wider garage doors:
- They are heavier and may require stronger motors or torsion springs.
- May flex or bow if not properly reinforced.
- Require proper track clearance to ensure smooth operation.
Choose a width compatible with the door’s weight and usage frequency to ensure long-term reliability.
Single vs. Double Garage Doors: What’s the Real Difference in Size?
The primary difference between single and double garage doors lies in their width. A standard single garage door typically measures 9 feet wide, while a double garage door is significantly wider at 16 feet. This difference in size has a direct impact on vehicle accommodation, costs, space efficiency, and the visual impact of your home’s exterior.
- Vehicles Accommodated: A single door accommodates one vehicle, while a double door can fit two vehicles side by side.
- Cost: A single door is typically more affordable than a double door due to its smaller size and simpler design.
- Space Efficiency: Double doors provide better space efficiency by allowing two vehicles to enter or exit simultaneously.
- Visual Impact: Single doors offer a subtler look, while double doors create a bolder, more striking façade.
For households with two vehicles, installing two single doors rather than one large door can reduce wear and tear. It also allows for independent use, offering flexibility and convenience.
How to Choose the Best Width for Your Garage Door
Use this checklist to determine your ideal garage door width:
- Type and size of vehicle(s)?
- Use of garage for storage or work?
- Desired clearance on both sides?
- Potential future vehicle changes?
- Garage design and available wall space?
A 9-foot width is optimal for most homeowners, while 10 to 12 feet may be better for oversized vehicles or added flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average width of a single garage door?
The average width of a single garage door is 9 feet, though 8 feet and 10 feet are also standard options. A 9-foot-wide door typically accommodates most vehicles, providing a balanced fit for average-sized cars and trucks. Choosing the right size ensures smooth operation and maximizes space in your garage.
Can a truck fit through a 9-foot garage door?
Yes, most standard trucks can fit through a 9-foot-wide garage door. However, for larger trucks or those with extended side mirrors, side clearance may be tight. Always ensure the vehicle’s width, including mirrors and accessories, is within the 9-foot space to avoid any potential issues when entering or exiting.
Is 8 feet wide enough for a garage door?
An 8-foot-wide garage door is adequate for smaller vehicles or compact cars. However, it may be restrictive for wider vehicles, especially SUVs or trucks. While it works for smaller garages, upgrading to a 9-foot door provides more flexibility and easier access, especially for households with larger vehicles.
What if my garage opening is smaller than the standard size?
If your garage opening is smaller than the standard size, custom garage doors can be fabricated to fit. A professional installer can assess your space and create a door that perfectly matches your garage’s dimensions. Custom sizes ensure a secure and functional fit without compromising your garage’s structure or appearance.
Can I change the width of my garage door opening?
Yes, you can change the width of your garage door opening, but it requires structural modifications to your garage’s framing. This process often involves obtaining a permit, as it can affect the integrity of the building. Consult with a professional installer to evaluate the feasibility and ensure proper modifications.
Conclusion
Choosing the right garage door width is essential for ensuring optimal accessibility, functionality, and curb appeal. For most homeowners, a 9-foot-wide door is the ideal choice, offering a perfect balance between practicality and space. However, if you have specific requirements, such as accommodating larger vehicles, opting for a wider or custom garage door may be necessary.
Accurate measurement and professional installation are key to making sure your garage door fits properly and functions smoothly. Consulting with experts ensures that the door is tailored to your needs, offering both durability and efficiency. Whether it’s a standard or custom door, investing in the right size guarantees long-lasting performance and security.
End Note
Martin Garage Door is committed to delivering high-quality garage doors and services to homeowners. Check out their Martin Garage Doors page for the latest door options, or head to their Services page to explore the full range of services. Want to know more about their background? Visit their About Us page to learn about their experience and values.
For a closer look at their past projects, check out their Photo Gallery. If you’re ready to get started or have questions, don’t hesitate to contact them through their Contact Us page. You can also find helpful garage door tips on their Blog and stay connected via Facebook.
