Standard Garage Door Sizes and How to Measure Your Opening
Garage doors come in common sizes. Many homes still have an opening that is not standard. Measure before you shop. A door that does not fit the opening causes problems. This guide lists common sizes and shows how to measure.
Common residential sizes
| Type | Common width | Common height |
|---|---|---|
| Single car | 8 or 9 feet | 7 feet |
| Double car | 16 feet | 7 feet |
| Taller door | 8 or 9 or 16 feet | 8 feet |
Other sizes exist. Older homes and custom openings vary. Do not assume your door is standard. Measure it.
How to measure the opening
- Measure the width of the opening from the inside of the frame at the widest point.
- Measure the height from the floor to the top of the opening.
- Measure the headroom. This is the space between the top of the opening and the ceiling or the lowest obstacle. Many standard setups need around 12 inches. Low headroom kits exist for tight spaces. Check with the door maker.
- Measure the side room on each side of the opening. Tracks and brackets need space.
- Measure the backroom. This is the depth of the garage from the opening to the back wall. The door travels along the ceiling when open.
Write each number down. Take photos of the ceiling and the sides.
Why exact size matters
A door that is too small leaves gaps. Gaps let in cold air and water and pests. Read weatherstripping and bottom seals and how to keep mice out of your garage. A door that is too large can bind in the frame.
Size affects weight and springs
A wider and taller door weighs more. Springs and the opener must match. Read what a balance problem looks like and how much horsepower an opener needs. Materials also change the weight.
Next steps
If the opening is unusual or the headroom is tight ask a professional to measure. Our new door installation page explains how replacement works. If you are deciding whether to replace read when to replace a garage door and questions to ask before hiring a repair company.
Need help with a new door?
Call us or send a request. We will check the opening and talk through your options.