Standard garage door dimensions include 1-car doors at 8–10 feet wide by 7–8 feet high, 2-car doors at 16–18 feet wide, RV garage doors at 12–14 feet in both width and height, and commercial doors ranging from 12–24 feet wide and 12–16 feet high.
Garage Door Dimension Guide
| Garage Door Type | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Car Garage Door | 8–10 Feet | 7–8 Feet |
| 2-Car Garage Door | 16–18 Feet | 7–8 Feet |
| RV Garage Door | 12–14 Feet | 12–14 Feet |
| Commercial Garage Door | 12–24 Feet | 12–16 Feet |
Why Garage Door Size Matters
Choosing the right garage door size is crucial for ensuring you have enough space for your vehicles, storage, and future flexibility. The right size impacts not only the ease of parking but also the functionality and efficiency of your garage. A garage door that’s too small can make parking difficult and stressful, while one that’s too large may come with unnecessary costs or aesthetic drawbacks.
Vehicle Fit and Functionality
First and foremost, the garage door must accommodate your current vehicle and any potential future vehicles. A standard 8-foot door may be adequate for a compact sedan, but it could make parking a larger SUV or truck a challenge. On the flip side, opting for a wider door can provide more room, but it may require structural modifications or affect your curb appeal.
Storage and Multi-Use Space
For many homeowners, the garage serves more than just a parking space—it’s a workshop, gym, or storage area. If you plan to store bikes, tools, or other items, the right door size can provide better maneuverability and access. However, going for a larger door could mean sacrificing other valuable space, such as in your yard or driveway.
Energy Efficiency
Garage door size also affects insulation and energy efficiency. A door that’s too large may allow for heat loss or gain, impacting your energy bills. A properly sized, insulated door can help maintain a comfortable temperature and lower utility costs, especially if your garage is attached to your home.
Cost vs. Value
Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to garage doors. While larger doors offer more space, they often come with a higher price tag and may require structural adjustments. That said, a door that fits your needs can add value to your home and improve functionality in the long run.
Common Single Garage Door Dimensions
Single garage doors typically measure between 8 to 10 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet high, accommodating most cars and small SUVs. These sizes are ideal for one-car garages, offering a practical and cost-effective solution for homeowners with limited parking space. Let’s break down the standard measurements and explore which size works best for different vehicles and use cases.
Standard Measurements
The most common single garage door sizes are:
- 8’x7’ – This is the narrowest option, often used for compact cars or small sedans.
- 9’x7’ – A popular choice for small to mid-sized vehicles like hatchbacks or sedans.
- 10’x7’ – Ideal for slightly larger cars or small SUVs.
Each of these measurements is designed to provide enough space for comfortable parking while maximizing efficiency. Larger sizes like 10’x7’ offer more flexibility but come at a slightly higher cost.
Best Uses for Each Size
- 8’x7’ doors are best for compact vehicles or cars that don’t require extra room for maneuvering. If your car is a small sedan or coupe, this size will be perfect and cost-effective.
- 9’x7’ doors offer a little more room, accommodating smaller SUVs or mid-sized cars. This is an excellent choice for those who want a bit more space without going overboard.
- 10’x7’ doors are suitable for small SUVs or trucks that need a bit more clearance. This size provides extra room to ensure easy parking, but it’s still compact enough for most single-car garages.
Ideal Vehicles for These Dimensions
- 8’x7’: Compact sedans, hatchbacks, or small coupes.
- 9’x7’: Mid-sized sedans, hatchbacks, or small SUVs like a Honda CR-V.
- 10’x7’: Larger SUVs or small trucks such as a Ford Ranger or Toyota Tacoma.
Trade-offs and Considerations
While the 8’x7’ size is the most affordable, it may not provide enough space for growing families or larger vehicles. On the other hand, opting for a 10’x7’ door might give you more flexibility but could increase upfront costs and require more space in your garage.
Common Double Garage Door Dimensions
For households with two vehicles, double garage doors generally come in widths ranging from 12 to 18 feet. These wider doors offer a seamless entry for multiple cars, improving convenience and visual appeal for modern garages. However, choosing the right size involves balancing space, budget, and functionality.
Typical Sizes
Standard double garage door dimensions include:
- 12’x7’ – Suitable for tighter garages or two compact vehicles with careful maneuvering.
- 14’x7’ – A more comfortable fit for two mid-sized cars or a mix of car and SUV.
- 16’x7’ – The most common choice, offering ample space for two average vehicles.
- 18’x7’ – Ideal for large SUVs, trucks, or extra clearance between vehicles.
Each size provides increasing clearance and maneuverability, but also comes with higher costs and space requirements.
Clearance and Maneuverability
Larger double doors like the 16’x7’ or 18’x7’ offer superior clearance, making it easier to park without scraping mirrors or squeezing in. However, this also means a wider garage opening, which could require structural modifications or more planning during construction.
RV and Oversized Garage Door Options
Larger vehicles like RVs, trucks, or commercial vans require oversized garage doors, which often start at 10 feet wide and 8 feet high. Standard garage doors simply won’t cut it when it comes to accommodating taller or longer vehicles. Whether you’re storing a motorhome, boat, or heavy-duty work truck, selecting the right oversized door is critical for both accessibility and safety.
Common Sizes for RVs and Heavy-Duty Vehicles
Oversized garage doors are typically available in the following dimensions:
- 10’x8’ – Suitable for lifted trucks, vans, or small Class B RVs.
- 12’x10’ – A good fit for Class C RVs and large trailers.
- 12’x12’ – Ideal for Class A RVs, commercial vehicles, or enclosed boat storage.
Each size provides added vertical and horizontal clearance to prevent damage when pulling in and out. However, larger doors often require additional structural support, which can increase construction costs and complexity.
Height Variations and Special Cases
While width often steals the spotlight, garage door height is just as important—especially for tall vehicles or storage racks. Choosing the right height ensures your garage remains functional, versatile, and future-ready. Whether you’re storing a lifted truck or installing overhead equipment, vertical space can make or break your garage’s usability.
Common Height Variations
Standard garage door heights typically range from 7 to 8 feet, but many homeowners are now opting for taller options such as:
- 9 feet – Offers more clearance for lifted SUVs or large roof racks.
- 10 feet and above – Ideal for RVs, tall trucks, or garages with interior lifts.
These higher dimensions allow for greater flexibility, but they often require taller garage ceilings and reinforced framing. This could increase your build or renovation costs—something worth factoring into your overall project budget.
Garage Lifts or Tall Storage
As home gyms, car lifts, and ceiling-mounted storage systems become more popular, extra garage height becomes increasingly valuable. A 7-foot door might limit your ability to install a car lift, whereas a 9- or 10-foot door provides the clearance needed for stacking vehicles or maximizing overhead space.
Trade-off: While increased height boosts utility, it may demand additional insulation, stronger openers, and more expensive doors—all of which can impact your long-term costs.
Custom vs. Standard Garage Door Sizes
Though standard sizes work for most homes, custom garage doors offer tailored solutions for unique spaces or architectural styles. If your garage has unusual dimensions or if you want a distinctive look, a custom-sized door may be the best option. However, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the added costs and complexity.
When to Go Custom
There are several situations where a standard garage door simply won’t fit—literally or aesthetically. Custom doors are ideal when:
- Your garage opening doesn’t match standard dimensions
- You want a unique design or finish to match your home’s architecture
- You’re working with historic or high-end custom-built homes
In these cases, standard doors may leave awkward gaps or compromise your design vision. A custom fit ensures both function and curb appeal.
Measuring for a New Garage Door
Before ordering a garage door, accurate measurements of your existing space are crucial to ensure a seamless installation. A small error can lead to costly delays, poor fit, or even structural adjustments. Measuring correctly helps you determine whether a standard size fits or if you’ll need a custom solution.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring
Measure the Opening Width:
Start by measuring the width of the garage door opening from side to side, inside the frame. This is your base measurement for choosing the right door width.
Measure the Opening Height:
Next, measure the height from the floor to the top of the opening. This determines whether you can accommodate standard heights like 7 or 8 feet—or if you need something taller.
Check the Headroom:
Measure the space from the top of the opening to the ceiling. This is critical for installing the garage door opener and track. Most systems require at least 12 inches of headroom, though low-clearance kits are available.
Measure the Side Room:
Finally, check the space on either side of the opening. You’ll need a few inches on each side for the vertical track to be mounted securely.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Needs
Selecting the ideal garage door size involves evaluating your current vehicle lineup and anticipating future lifestyle changes. It’s not just about what fits today—it’s about ensuring your garage stays functional and flexible for years to come.
Storage vs. Parking Needs
If you’re using your garage strictly for parking, a standard single or double door may suffice. However, if you need space for storage shelves, workbenches, or ceiling racks, going a bit wider or taller could prevent future frustration.
Trade-off: A larger door provides more room and flexibility, but it may increase costs and reduce wall space for storage. Balancing accessibility with usable interior space is key.
Conclusion
Whether you’re building new or upgrading your existing garage, understanding standard garage door dimensions is the first step to a perfect fit. From sizing and storage to resale value, every choice matters. For best results, consult a professional and explore related resources to ensure your decision is informed and future-ready.
FAQs
What is the standard size for a single garage door?
Most single garage doors measure 8 to 10 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet high. These sizes accommodate standard cars, small SUVs, and light storage needs.
Can I fit two cars in a double garage with a 16-foot door?
Yes, a 16’x7’ door is the most common double size and typically provides enough room for two mid-sized vehicles, though clearance can be tight with larger models.
Do I need a custom garage door for an RV or tall truck?
Often, yes. RVs and oversized vehicles usually require doors at least 10 feet wide and 8 to 12 feet high. Custom or oversized garage doors are recommended to ensure proper clearance and safe access.
How much headroom do I need for a garage door opener?
Most standard openers require at least 12 inches of headroom above the garage door opening. Low-clearance options are available if space is limited.
Should I choose a custom garage door or stick with a standard size?
Choose a custom door if your garage has non-standard dimensions or unique architectural needs. However, standard sizes are more affordable, readily available, and easier to install.