This page answers the question, “How wide is a single garage door?” and explores other relevant garage door dimensions.
Are you standing in your driveway, measuring tape in hand, wondering exactly how wide a single garage door is? If so, you’re not alone. Many homeowners face this question when building a new home, replacing an aging garage door, or determining if their oversized SUV will fit through the opening. JT’s Overhead Doors understands this common dilemma and is here to clarify standard garage door dimensions and what might work best for your situation.
Understanding the Standard Single Garage Door Width
The most common width for a single garage door is 9 feet (108 inches). This standard size has become prevalent because it comfortably accommodates most standard vehicles while allowing enough space on either side for passengers to enter and exit the car once parked.
However, when considering how wide is a single garage door, homeowners should know that single garage doors typically come in three standard widths:
- 8 feet (96 inches): Ideal for smaller vehicles or properties with limited space
- 9 feet (108 inches): The most common size that works for most standard vehicles
- 10 feet (120 inches): Preferred for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs or when extra clearance is desired
The size you choose depends on various factors, including the size of your vehicle, available space, and local building codes. Many homeowners opt for the 9-foot or 10-foot options to accommodate larger vehicles typical in the region and to account for the extreme summer heat that might cause drivers to park with more space between their car and the garage door frame.
Factors That Can Influence Your Single Garage Door Width
Building Codes and Regulations
Local building codes may specify minimum requirements for garage door widths. Before deciding on a garage door size, it’s essential to check with local authorities or consult experts like JT’s Overhead Doors, who are familiar with regional requirements.
Property Size and Layout
The available space on your property significantly impacts the possible width of your garage door. The existing structure limits your options for attached garages, while detached garages offer more flexibility. Many newer homes feature wider garage doors to accommodate the region’s popularity of trucks and SUVs.
Specific Needs and Preferences
When exploring how wide a single garage door should be for your home, consider the following:
- Vehicle size: Larger vehicles like trucks, SUVs, or vehicles with extended mirrors need wider clearance
- Space for opening car doors: Extra width allows passengers to enter and exit vehicles inside the garage comfortably
- Storage needs: Many homeowners use garage walls for storage, requiring additional clearance
- Future considerations: You might own a compact car now but purchase a larger vehicle later
The weather makes adequate space vital, as tight clearances can increase the risk of accidental contact with the door frame when drivers hurry to escape the summer temperatures.
Different Types of Single Garage Doors and Their Standard Widths
Sectional Garage Doors
Sectional doors are the most common type of garage door installed in Gilbert homes. They typically have standard widths of 8, 9, or 10 feet, with 9 feet being the most prevalent for single garages. Sectional doors work well in Arizona, providing sound insulation against weather.
Roll-Up Garage Doors
Roll-up doors, which coil around a drum above the opening, typically have the same standard widths as sectional doors. However, they require additional headroom above the door opening. Although installation requirements differ, the exact standard measurements apply when considering how wide a single garage door should be for a roll-up style.
Sliding Garage Doors
Sliding doors, which move horizontally rather than vertically, are less standard for single-car garages but can be an option for homeowners with specific architectural preferences. These often require custom sizing based on the opening but typically follow similar width standards.
Swing-Out Garage Doors
Traditional swing-out doors are rarely used for modern single-car garages in Gilbert due to space constraints and weather, which can warp these door types over time. The opening width typically matches standard garage door widths, but the panels may be sized differently.
Measuring Your Existing Single Garage Door Width
If you’re replacing an existing garage door, accurate measurements are crucial. Here’s how to measure correctly:
- Please measure the width of the door opening (not the door itself) from the inside of the finished frame on one side to the inside of the finished frame on the other side.
- Take measurements at three different height points (top, middle, and bottom), as openings aren’t always perfectly square.
- Use the smallest of these measurements when ordering a replacement door.
For homeowners wondering how wide a single garage door should be for their specific garage, JT’s Overhead Doors offers professional measuring services to ensure accuracy.
Why Choosing the Right Single Garage Door Width Matters
Vehicle Clearance and Safety
A properly sized garage door provides sufficient clearance for your vehicle, reducing the risk of scratches, dents, or more serious damage. In Gilbert, where many residents drive larger vehicles, adequate width is significant for daily convenience and safety.
Ease of Access and Convenience
The width of your garage door affects how easily you can enter and exit your vehicle once inside the garage. A door that’s too narrow may force uncomfortable contortions to squeeze between your car and the wall, which is especially problematic during Arizona’s scorching summer months when residents want to transition from air-conditioned spaces quickly.
Potential for Future Needs
Consider your future vehicle needs when deciding on the width of a single garage door in Gilbert, AZ. Many homeowners who initially choose narrower doors later regret not opting for wider options when they purchase larger vehicles.
Property Value and Aesthetics
A well-proportioned garage door enhances your home’s curb appeal and positively impacts property value. In Gilbert’s competitive real estate market, appropriate garage dimensions can be a selling point for potential buyers who often own larger vehicles.
Beyond Width: Other Important Garage Door Dimensions to Consider
While width is crucial, height is equally important. Standard garage door heights include:
- 7 feet (84 inches): The most common height for residential garage doors
- 8 feet (96 inches): Preferred for larger vehicles like trucks or SUVs with roof racks
Gilbert residents with lifted trucks or specialty vehicles, which are common in the area, can seek guidance on custom height options beyond these standards from JT’s Overhead Doors.
The depth of your garage is another consideration, especially about vehicle length. A standard single garage should be at least 20 feet deep to accommodate most vehicles and provide storage space, though larger vehicles may require more depth.
FAQs About Single Garage Doors
How wide is a standard single garage?
A standard single garage is typically around 10 to 12 feet wide, providing enough space for one vehicle and some limited storage or maneuvering room. However, some single garages can be more expansive, reaching up to 14 feet.
What is the minimum width of a single garage door?
The minimum width for a standard single garage door is usually 8 feet, although some may be
slightly narrower in older constructions. A more familiar and comfortable width for a single car is 9 feet.
What is the minimum space for a garage door opener?
The minimum headroom space required above the garage door for a standard opener is typically around 2 inches, although this can vary depending on the specific opener model and installation requirements. Some openers require more space for proper installation and operation.
How wide is a single garage door opening?
A single garage door opening typically matches the width of the garage door, which is commonly 8, 9, or 10 feet wide. The rough opening should be larger than the door for proper installation and track placement.
How wide is a single-wide garage?
A single-wide garage typically refers to a garage designed to accommodate one vehicle. The width is generally 10 to 12 feet, providing adequate parking space and opening the car doors.
Conclusion
Understanding how wide a single garage door should be is essential for homeowners planning new construction or replacing existing doors. While standard widths of 8, 9, and 10 feet are most common, the best choice depends on your specific vehicle, property constraints, and future needs. JT’s Overhead Doors recommends consulting with professionals who understand local building codes and can provide personalized advice based on your unique situation.
Whether building a new home or upgrading an existing property, choosing the correct garage door dimensions ensures convenience, safety, and enhanced property value. With the proper information and professional guidance, you can select a garage door that perfectly suits your needs and complements your home’s architecture.
End Note
At JT’s Overhead Doors, we deliver reliable garage door solutions. Our commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction makes us the trusted choice for residential and commercial garage door needs. We understand the unique requirements, from withstanding weather to accommodating the popular larger vehicles in our region.
Visit our website to learn more about our services, schedule maintenance, or request emergency repairs. We’ve been here to ensure your garage door has operated safely and efficiently for years. Connect with us online or call today to experience the difference professional garage door service can make. Trust JT’s Overhead Doors for all your overhead door needs.
