Wondering how wide a single garage door is? Discover standard sizes, clearance tips, and expert advice in this complete guide for homeowners.
When upgrading or building a new garage, one key consideration is: how wide is a single garage door? The right width affects your vehicle access, storage options, and curb appeal. Whether for a compact car or a large truck, knowing standard and custom sizes helps you make the best long-term decision.
For reliable guidance and expert service, trust Brentwood Door and Gate to help you choose the ideal garage door size. Their team can explain how different widths impact function and aesthetics. Understanding how wide is a single garage door ensures your space works for your needs, improving both convenience and home value.
Why Garage Door Width Matters for Homeowners
The size of your garage door isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about functionality, clearance, and safety. Here’s why width plays a critical role:
- Vehicle Fit & Movement: A door that’s too narrow may make daily parking frustrating or even impossible for wider vehicles.
- Storage Space: If you keep bikes, shelves, or tools in the garage, extra width gives you better access.
- Resale Value: Homes with standard or oversized garage openings are more attractive to future buyers.
- Accessibility: Wider doors provide easier entry and exit, especially for seniors or families with kids.
What Is the Standard Width of a Single Garage Door?
A standard single garage door typically measures between:
- Width: 8 feet to 10 feet
- Height: 7 feet to 8 feet
| Garage Door Width | Common Usage |
| 8 feet | Compact cars, tight spaces |
| 9 feet | Standard vehicles |
| 10 feet | Larger cars/SUVs/trucks |
These dimensions are based on modern vehicle sizes and builder trends. An 8-foot door is common for older homes, while newer homes often feature a 9 or 10-foot door for better clearance.
Factors That Affect Garage Door Width Requirements
Choosing the right garage door width isn’t just about today’s vehicle. Consider these important factors before settling on a size:
- Garage Layout: Is your garage attached to your home or detached? Attached garages often have more flexibility in width and ceiling height.
- Vehicle Size: A sedan might fit easily through an 8-foot opening, but a full-size truck or SUV likely needs at least 9 to 10 feet.
- Storage Needs: Wall shelving, utility racks, or side entrances can reduce usable width.
- Local Building Codes: Certain municipalities may have rules regarding garage door size and spacing.
Non-Standard Single Garage Door Widths
While standard single garage door widths typically work for most homes, certain situations may require custom sizing for optimal function. Here’s a breakdown of non-standard widths:
- Narrow Single Garage Doors (6–7 feet)
- Common in older homes or garages with limited space.
- It may restrict the size of vehicles, limiting options for larger cars.
- Often used for smaller cars motorcycles, or as additional storage space.
- Best suited for areas where space is tight but small vehicles are still needed.
- Common in older homes or garages with limited space.
- Extra-Wide Single Garage Doors (10–12 feet)
- Perfect for larger vehicles like lifted trucks, SUVs, or when more clearance is necessary.
- Easier access for vehicles with wide mirrors or roof racks.
- Ideal for households that frequently load or unload large items, providing extra space for maneuvering.
- Often seen in homes with larger garages or in areas with frequent parking challenges.
- Perfect for larger vehicles like lifted trucks, SUVs, or when more clearance is necessary.
Why Choose Custom Sizes?
Custom garage doors are more expensive, but they offer significant benefits:
- Improved convenience and accessibility for specific needs.
- Increased usability and long-term value for larger vehicles or unique storage requirements.
How to Measure for a Single Garage Door
Accurate measuring is crucial for a proper fit and smooth installation. Here’s how to do it right:
What You’ll Need:
- Tape measure (at least 25 feet)
- Pen and paper
- Ladder (if needed)
- Flashlights for dimly lit garages
Step-by-Step:
- Width (Opening): Measure the width of the garage door opening from side to side.
- Height: Measure from the garage floor to the top of the opening.
- Side Room: Measure the width of the wall on either side of the opening (at least 3.75 inches required for tracks).
- Headroom: Measure from the top of the opening to the ceiling (minimum 10–12 inches for standard openers).
- Backroom: Measure the depth from the opening to the back wall of the garage (door height + 18 inches minimum).
Pro Tip:
Always measure twice and consult with a garage door professional before ordering your door.
Clearance, Frame Space & Headroom Considerations
Don’t overlook the space around your garage opening, which plays a vital role in how the door functions.
- Side Room: At least 3.75–5 inches is needed on both sides for tracks and torsion springs.
- Headroom: 10–12 inches above the opening is ideal, especially for opener installation.
- Depth: A typical 7-foot tall garage door needs at least 8 feet of garage depth to roll up safely.
If your garage has less space in any of these areas, you may need special hardware or a low-headroom kit.
Installation Tips for a Single Garage Door
When it comes time to install your new single garage door, you’ll need to decide whether to go the DIY route or hire a professional. Here are the pros and cons of both options:
DIY Installation
Pros:
- Save on labor costs: By installing the door yourself, you only pay for materials.
- Good for experienced builders: If you’re a handy homeowner or have prior construction experience, DIY can be rewarding.
Cons:
- Time-consuming: Installation can take longer than expected, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process.
- Risk of injury or mistakes: Incorrect installation can lead to costly garage door repairs or injuries, and it may void the warranty.
Professional Installation
Pros:
- Fast and efficient: Professionals can get the job done quickly, saving you time.
- Code-compliant: A pro ensures the installation meets local building codes and regulations.
- Warranty and support: Many services include maintenance and warranty coverage.
Cost Considerations:
- Standard width doors: $600–$1,200
- Wider custom doors: $1,000–$2,000+
Decide based on your experience level, budget, and desired time investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most common width for a single garage door?
The most common width for a single garage door is 9 feet. It provides a balance between accessibility and space, accommodating most modern vehicles, including sedans and SUVs. This standard width ensures a smooth entry and exit while remaining practical for various residential garage sizes.
Can a single garage door fit two small cars?
A single garage door is designed for one vehicle, making it unsuitable for two small cars. Typically, a double garage door, measuring around 16 feet in width, is required to comfortably accommodate two vehicles side by side, allowing for ease of parking and vehicle movement.
How wide should a garage door be for a truck?
For a full-sized truck, a new garage door width of at least 10 feet is recommended. This extra width ensures sufficient space for easy entry and exit, especially if the truck has extended mirrors. A wider door provides more room for maneuvering and prevents potential damage to the truck.
What is the narrowest a garage door can be?
The narrowest garage doors typically measure 6 feet in width, often seen in older homes or custom garages. While these narrower doors are functional, they severely limit the types of vehicles that can fit inside, making them impractical for modern cars, trucks, or SUVs that require more space.
Can I install a wider single garage door in an older home?
Yes, it is possible to install a wider single garage door in an older home, but it may require modifications. This could involve altering the garage framing, reinforcing the structure, or adjusting the surrounding area to accommodate the new, wider door while maintaining the home’s structural integrity.
Conclusion
When planning your garage door installation or upgrade, understanding the width of a single garage door is crucial. A 9-foot standard door accommodates most vehicles, but larger trucks or multiple cars may need a wider door. Choosing the right width ensures your garage is both functional and accessible, offering convenience for your daily needs.
If you’re considering modifying your existing garage, consulting a professional ensures the best fit for your specific requirements. Factors like vehicle dimensions, available space, and accessibility should always be prioritized when selecting the right garage door width. Professional guidance guarantees a seamless installation, optimizing both functionality and aesthetics in your garage space.
End Note
Brentwood Door and Gate is your go-to expert when it comes to garage door solutions. Whether you’re looking to install or replace a garage door, we offer everything from standard 8-foot designs to custom 10-foot installations. Check out our Garage Doors page to explore all the options available for your home. Whether you’re in need of a repair or a brand-new installation, we’ve got you covered with our professional Repair services.
Ready to get started? Visit our Service Area to see if we’re in your neighborhood, and take a look at our About Us page to meet the dedicated team behind our services. For further inspiration, head over to our Blog. Don’t hesitate to Contact Us for any inquiries or to schedule your service today!
