How Wide Is A Two Car Garage Door

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Introduction

When it comes to designing or renovating a garage, one of the most important considerations is the width of the garage door. A properly sized garage door not only ensures easy access to your vehicles but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your property.

In this article, we will delve into the standard size of a two car garage door, factors that affect garage door width, the pros and cons of oversized garage doors, customization options, and common mistakes to avoid. So, if you’re looking to build or replace a garage door, read on to find out all you need to know about the width of a two car garage door.

Standard Size of a Two Car Garage Door

When it comes to two car garages, the standard width of the garage door is typically 16 feet. This allows for two average-sized cars to fit comfortably side by side without any obstruction. However, it’s important to note that this standard size may vary depending on the specific needs and preferences of homeowners.

Along with the width, the height of a standard two car garage door is usually 7 or 8 feet. These dimensions are designed to accommodate most vehicles, including SUVs, trucks, and vans. It’s crucial to consider the height of your vehicles while determining the appropriate size for your garage door.

Additionally, it’s advisable to leave some extra space on either side of the garage door to facilitate easy entry and exit. This typically requires an additional 3 to 4 feet of space on each side.

It’s worth noting that these standard dimensions are for residential garages. Commercial garages or garages for larger vehicles may require wider or taller doors to accommodate specific needs.

By opting for the standard size of a two car garage door, you can ensure that it aligns with industry standards and provides adequate space for your vehicles and storage needs.

Factors that Affect Garage Door Width

While the standard size of a two car garage door is 16 feet, there are several factors that can influence the width requirements for a garage door. Understanding these factors will help you determine the appropriate size for your garage door.

1. Number of Vehicles: The number of vehicles you plan to store in your garage is a crucial factor in determining the width of your garage door. If you have more than two vehicles or if you have larger vehicles such as trucks or SUVs, you may need a wider garage door to ensure easy access and maneuverability.

2. Vehicle Size: The size of your vehicles plays a significant role in determining the width of your garage door. If you have compact cars, the standard 16-foot wide garage door should suffice. However, if you have larger vehicles or vehicles with wide side mirrors, you may need a wider door to accommodate them comfortably.

3. Parking and Storage Space: Apart from parking your vehicles, you may need additional storage space in your garage for tools, equipment, or other belongings. Consider the amount of space you require for storage and take it into account when determining the width of your garage door.

4. Accessibility: Accessibility is another important factor to consider. If you have limited space on your property, you may need to adjust the width of your garage door to ensure easy maneuverability. Additionally, if you need to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges or if you require wheelchair access, you may need a wider door to meet these requirements.

5. Future Needs: It’s wise to consider your future needs when deciding on the width of your garage door. If you plan to purchase larger vehicles or if you anticipate any changes in your storage requirements, it may be beneficial to opt for a wider door to accommodate these potential future needs.

By considering these factors, you can determine the appropriate width for your garage door, ensuring it meets your current and future needs.

Oversized Garage Doors: Pros and Cons

Opting for an oversized garage door can have several advantages, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Here are the key pros and cons of oversized garage doors:

Pros

• Ample Space: One of the main advantages of oversized garage doors is the additional space it provides. With a wider door, you have more room to maneuver your vehicles and store larger items.
• Flexibility: An oversized garage door offers greater flexibility. It allows you to comfortably park larger vehicles, such as trailers or recreational vehicles (RVs), without any hassle.
• Increased Resale Value: A garage with an oversized door can enhance the resale value of your home. It can attract potential buyers who prefer a spacious and versatile garage.
• Improved Accessibility: If you have mobility challenges or use mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers, an oversized door can provide better accessibility and ease of entry and exit to your garage.

Cons

• Cost: The primary drawback of oversized garage doors is the higher cost associated with them. The larger the door, the more materials and labor it requires, which can increase the overall project cost.
• Limited Design Options: Oversized doors may limit your design options, especially if you choose a non-standard size. It can be more challenging to find pre-made doors or may require custom-made options, which can be more expensive.
• Aesthetic Considerations: An oversized door may not always suit the architectural style of your home. It’s essential to consider the overall aesthetics and proportions to maintain a harmonious look.
• Energy Efficiency: Larger garage doors can impact energy efficiency. They may allow more heat or cold air to escape from the garage, potentially affecting the temperature control inside the garage and adjacent rooms.

It’s crucial to consider these factors and weigh the pros and cons of oversized garage doors to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.

Customizing Garage Door Width

While there are standard sizes for two car garage doors, customizing the width of the door allows you to tailor it to your specific needs and preferences. Here are some options for customizing the width of your garage door:

1. Narrower Width:

If you have limited space in your garage or on your property, you may opt for a narrower garage door. This can be especially useful if you have smaller vehicles or if you prioritize storage space over vehicle access. A narrower width can also be a design choice to achieve a certain aesthetic or architectural style.

2. Wider Width:

On the other hand, if you have larger vehicles or require extra space for storage or other purposes, you may choose a wider garage door. This provides more room for maneuvering vehicles and makes it easier to access items stored in the garage. It offers enhanced flexibility and accommodates larger vehicles, such as trucks, SUVs, or recreational vehicles.

3. Custom-Made Doors:

If the standard sizes or customization options available in the market don’t meet your requirements, you can consider getting a custom-made garage door. This allows you to specify the exact width you need and have a door crafted to fit your specifications perfectly. While custom-made doors offer maximum flexibility, they may come with a higher price tag and longer lead times due to their unique nature.

4. Combination of Standard Sizes:

In some cases, you may find that combining standard sizes of garage doors can be a practical solution. For example, if you have two smaller vehicles, you may opt for two single-car garage doors instead of a traditional two-car door. This allows for greater flexibility and allows you to open only the door you need, saving energy and space in the process.

Customizing the width of your garage door allows you to tailor it to your specific needs and maximize the functionality of your garage. Whether you choose a narrower or wider width or explore custom-made options, it’s important to consider your requirements, budget, and existing space constraints before making a decision.

Common Garage Door Width Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to selecting the width of your garage door, there are a few common mistakes that you should avoid to ensure you choose the right size for your needs. Here are some of the most common garage door width mistakes:

1. Not Considering Future Needs:

One of the most common mistakes is not considering your future needs. While it may be tempting to choose a smaller door to save on costs, it’s important to think about any changes in vehicle size or storage requirements you may have in the future. By anticipating future needs, you can avoid needing to replace or modify your garage door down the line.

2. Ignoring Vehicle Size:

Another mistake is not taking into account the size of your vehicles. If you have larger vehicles or vehicles with wide side mirrors, it’s important to ensure that the width of the garage door can comfortably accommodate them. Failing to do so can make it challenging to park and navigate your vehicles within the garage.

3. Overestimating Available Space:

Overestimating the available space is a common error that can lead to cramped parking conditions or difficulties in opening and closing the garage door. Be sure to measure the available space accurately and consider any obstacles or obstructions that may affect the width of the garage door.

4. Neglecting Side Drive Space:

Not leaving enough side drive space is another mistake to avoid. This refers to the space on either side of the garage door that allows for easy entry and exit of your vehicles. Leaving insufficient side drive space can make it inconvenient and potentially dangerous to park and maneuver your vehicles.

5. Not Consulting with a Professional:

Perhaps the biggest mistake is not consulting with a garage door professional. They can provide valuable advice and insights based on their experience and expertise. They can help you determine the appropriate width for your garage door based on your specific needs and considerations.

Avoiding these common garage door width mistakes ensures that you select the right size for your garage, providing convenience, functionality, and avoiding unnecessary modifications in the future. By taking the time to plan and consult with professionals, you can make an informed decision that meets your current and future needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right width for your two car garage door is a crucial decision that can impact the functionality and overall appearance of your garage. By understanding the standard size, considering important factors, and making informed customization choices, you can ensure that your garage door perfectly suits your needs.

It’s essential to consider the number and size of your vehicles, the available space, and your storage requirements when determining the width of your garage door. Taking into account future needs is also important to avoid the hassle and expense of replacing or modifying your garage door down the line.

Oversized garage doors offer additional space, flexibility, and accessibility, but they may come with higher costs and potential design limitations. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding on an oversized door.

If the standard sizes don’t meet your requirements, customizing the width or exploring combination options can provide the perfect solution. However, be aware of the associated costs and lead times when opting for custom-made doors.

Avoiding common mistakes such as neglecting future needs, ignoring vehicle size, and underestimating available space is essential. Consulting with a professional garage door specialist can provide valuable guidance throughout the decision-making process.

In conclusion, the width of your two car garage door plays a significant role in determining the convenience, accessibility, and functionality of your garage. By carefully considering your needs, consulting with professionals, and avoiding common mistakes, you can choose the perfect width for your garage door and enjoy the benefits for years to come.