Garage Door Width Myths Busted – Don’t Make These Measurement Mistakes!

When planning for a new garage door installation, the last thing you want to deal with is incorrect measurements. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is misunderstanding garage door width, leading to doors that either don’t fit or fail to function correctly. Accurate measurements are critical to ensure a perfect fit for your new garage door, and yet, there are several myths surrounding garage door width that often cause confusion.

In this blog, we will bust the most common myths associated with garage door width measurements and give you practical guidance to avoid these mistakes. Whether you’re installing a standard door or customizing your garage opening, this guide will help you measure correctly and make well-informed decisions for your home improvement project. By the end, you’ll be ready to work with professionals to get your garage door installed flawlessly.

Common Myths About Garage Door Width

Myth #1: All Garage Doors Have a Standard Width

One of the most widespread misconceptions about garage door width is that all doors come in a standard size. While there are some typical widths available, garage doors are not one-size-fits-all. Standard single-car garage doors generally range from 8 to 10 feet in width, while double-car garage doors can be between 12 and 16 feet wide. However, there are many variations, especially when you consider custom builds, older homes, or unique architectural designs.

Assuming that all garage doors are the same size could lead to ordering the wrong door for your garage. Before making a purchase, you should always measure the width of your garage door opening, considering any potential obstructions such as door framing or protrusions that could affect the fit.

Myth #2: You Only Need to Measure the Garage Door Width

Another common mistake is thinking that only the garage door width matters. While width is crucial, you should also measure the height and depth of your garage. Accurate height measurements ensure the door will fit properly from top to bottom, while depth measurements are important for determining whether there’s enough room for the garage door to open and close without hitting anything inside the garage.

For example, sectional garage doors need sufficient ceiling space to accommodate the tracks, so failing to account for the depth of the garage could lead to installation issues.

Myth #3: You Can Measure the Door Itself

Some people believe that they can simply measure their existing garage door and use those numbers to order a new one. However, this method often leads to errors because the garage door opening and the actual door are not always the same size. The width of your garage door opening is what matters—not the width of the door itself.

When measuring, always take into account the width of the door frame, which can vary depending on the type of garage door you have. Ignoring the frame can result in a door that doesn’t fit properly.

Myth #4: Custom Garage Door Widths Are Always Expensive

It’s a common belief that if your garage door width falls outside of the standard sizes, you’ll need a custom-built door, which is assumed to be very expensive. However, custom garage doors have become more affordable over the years, and many manufacturers offer flexible pricing options. While a custom size may cost more than a stock option, it doesn’t always break the bank, especially when you consider the long-term benefits of a door that fits perfectly.

Having the right door width means less wear and tear on the door’s components, a better seal for insulation, and improved curb appeal. These factors make the slightly higher upfront cost worthwhile for many homeowners.

Myth #5: All Garage Door Installers Know How to Measure Correctly

Finally, don’t assume that every garage door installer will take accurate measurements. Some installers may rely on standard sizes or fail to consider all the relevant factors, such as ceiling height or door framing. Make sure to hire professionals who have a proven track record of accuracy when it comes to measuring and installing garage doors. Working with experienced installers ensures that all measurements are correct and that the door will fit seamlessly.

Why Accurate Garage Door Width Measurement Is Essential

1. Ensures Proper Functionality
   • A correctly measured garage door is critical for its smooth operation. If the door is either too narrow or too wide, it can lead to improper functioning, such as difficulties in opening and closing. This misalignment puts excessive strain on the garage door’s motor, springs, and tracks. Over time, this added stress can result in premature wear and tear, malfunctions, and expensive repairs. Accurate measurements help to avoid these issues, ensuring that the door operates efficiently and lasts longer, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
     
     
2. Maximizes Security
   • The security of your home can be compromised if the garage door does not fit the opening correctly. Gaps between the door and the frame can create opportunities for intruders to force their way into the garage. These openings can also allow pests, rodents, or small animals to enter, potentially causing damage or creating a health hazard. By ensuring the door is measured accurately and fits properly, you can minimize security risks and maintain a safer, more secure environment for your home and belongings.
     
     
3. Improves Energy Efficiency
   • An accurately sized garage door is important for maintaining energy efficiency. A door that fits snugly seals off the space effectively, preventing drafts and helping to keep the temperature inside the garage stable. This is especially significant if the garage is attached to your home, as an ill-fitting door can lead to heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer, driving up your energy bills. Proper measurement ensures better insulation and reduces the energy required to heat or cool adjacent areas of your home.
     
     
4. Enhances Curb Appeal
   • The visual impact of a garage door should not be underestimated, as it is often one of the most prominent features of a home’s exterior. A garage door that is poorly fitted to the opening can look awkward and diminish the overall appearance of your home. By ensuring the door width is accurate, you not only guarantee functionality but also contribute to a more polished and aesthetically pleasing exterior. A well-fitting garage door enhances curb appeal, increasing the value and attractiveness of your home in the neighborhood.
     
     

Accurate garage door width measurement is crucial for various reasons, including ensuring proper functionality, maximizing security, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing curb appeal. Taking the time to measure correctly from the start can save you from potential issues and costs in the long run.

How to Measure Garage Door Width Accurately

Accurately measuring your garage door is crucial for ensuring that the new door fits properly and operates smoothly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you measure your garage door with precision.

Step 1: Measure the Width of the Opening

• Begin by measuring the width of the garage door opening. This is the distance from one side of the opening to the other, across the widest part of the opening.
  
  
• Use a high-quality tape measure and record the measurement in feet and inches to ensure precision.
  
  
• Be sure to measure at the widest point of the opening, avoiding any trim, moldings, or other architectural details. It’s important to focus solely on the opening itself, as this will determine the size of the door needed for installation.
  
  

Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to measure the width at multiple points—top, middle, and bottom—just in case the opening isn’t perfectly square. Use the largest measurement for ordering the door.

Step 2: Measure the Height of the Opening

• Next, measure the height of the garage door opening. Start from the floor and extend the tape measure vertically to the top of the door opening.
  
  
• As with the width measurement, exclude any decorative trim or external features, focusing only on the actual opening height.
  
  

Pro Tip: Like the width, it’s wise to take multiple height measurements, especially if your garage floor is uneven or the opening is slightly irregular. Always use the largest measurement when planning.

Step 3: Measure the Depth of the Garage

• The depth of the garage is often overlooked, but it’s essential for ensuring that the door has enough space to open fully. To measure this, start from the inside edge of the door opening and extend the tape measure to the back wall of the garage.
  
  
• This measurement is especially critical for sectional doors, which require significant overhead space to slide back along the ceiling. Without sufficient depth, the door may not open fully or could interfere with other items stored in the garage.
  
  

Pro Tip: Make sure to account for any obstacles in the garage that could interfere with the operation of the door, such as shelving, beams, or lighting fixtures.

Step 4: Measure the Headroom

• The headroom refers to the vertical space between the top of the garage door opening and the ceiling. This is a key measurement, particularly for garage doors that operate using overhead tracks or torsion springs.
  
  
• Use the tape measure to record the distance from the top of the door opening to the lowest point of the ceiling, making sure to note if there are any obstructions, such as beams or pipes, that could reduce the available space.
  
  

Pro Tip: If you have low headroom, you may need special low-clearance tracks or hardware. Knowing your headroom measurement upfront can help you plan accordingly.

Step 5: Measure the Side Room

• The side room refers to the space between the edge of the garage door opening and the nearest wall. To measure, extend your tape measure horizontally from the edge of the door opening to the closest obstruction or wall.
  
  
• This measurement is crucial because the tracks, springs, and other hardware that support the door need adequate space for proper installation and operation.
  
  

Pro Tip: Standard sectional garage doors typically require at least 3.5 inches of side room on each side, but some door systems may require more, depending on the design. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications.

Additional Considerations:

• Take Multiple Measurements: Measure the width, height, and depth in more than one spot to ensure that the garage opening is square. If there are discrepancies, use the largest measurements.
  
  
• Account for Irregularities: If your garage floor is uneven or the walls are not perfectly square, these variations could affect installation. It’s important to document these irregularities and inform the garage door installer.
  
  
• Consider Future Needs: If you’re planning to add insulation, drywall, or other features to your garage, these could reduce the space available for the door and tracks. Always factor in future renovations when taking your measurements.
  
  

Measuring your garage door width and surrounding space accurately ensures a smooth garage door repair or installation process, optimal functionality, and a proper fit that will last years. Taking the time to measure correctly helps you avoid costly installation errors and ensures your new door meets your practical and aesthetic needs.

FAQs About Garage Door Width

What is the standard garage door width?

The standard garage door width for a single-car garage typically ranges from 8 to 10 feet. For double-car garages, the width can be between 12 and 16 feet. However, custom widths are available for unique openings.

Can I install a wider garage door on my existing garage?

It is possible to install a wider garage door, but it depends on the structure of your garage. You may need to make modifications to the garage framing or walls to accommodate a wider door.

How much space do I need on each side of the garage door for the tracks?

For most garage doors, you need at least 3.5 to 5 inches of side room on either side of the door opening to install the tracks and springs properly. The exact measurement may vary based on the type of door and track system.

Can a garage door installer help me measure the right garage door width?

Yes, professional garage door installers can take accurate measurements for you, ensuring that you get the right width, height, and depth for your specific garage door needs.

What should I do if my garage door opening is an unusual size?

If your garage door opening has an unusual width or height, consider ordering a custom garage door. Many manufacturers offer custom sizes to accommodate non-standard openings.

Conclusion

Busting these common myths about garage door width is crucial for homeowners looking to install the perfect new garage door. Accurate measurements of the garage door width, height, and depth are essential for functionality, security, and energy efficiency. By avoiding these measurement mistakes, you’ll ensure a smooth installation process, prevent costly errors, and enjoy the benefits of a properly fitted garage door.

When it comes to garage door installation, it’s always best to work with professionals like the Garage Door Springs Specialists. They specialize in garage door services and can help you get the measurements right the first time, preventing installation headaches down the road.

End Note

Garage Door Springs Specialists is dedicated to providing high-quality garage door services in West Covina, CA, and the surrounding areas. They specialize in everything from spring repairs to full-door installations. Be sure to check out their About Us page to learn more about their expert team, their Services page for a full list of offerings, and their Contact Us page to schedule a consultation. Don’t forget to explore their Gallery to see their previous projects and visit their Blog for more helpful tips and insights.