In today's homestead environment, the garage has become an essential component of the house. Alongside securing and storing vehicles, it serves multiple purposes, including being used as a recreational or workspace. Specifically, 2 car garages continue to increase in popularity due to their practicality and versatility. But what are the standard 2 car garage door dimensions? This article dives into everything you need to know about this topic.
Ideal Measurements for a Double Car Garage Door
Typically, standard dimensions for a double car garage door are 16 feet wide by 7 feet tall (16x7 feet). However, this isn't a one-size-fits-all scenario. Several variables come into play that could influence the size of your garage door. Keep in mind:
- The size of your vehicles: Larger cars like SUVs and trucks may need a bigger entrance.
- The amount of extra space desired for storage or moving around.
- The structure and layout of the house.
Given these variables, garage door sizes can range from 14x7 feet to 18x8 feet for comfortably fitting two vehicles.
Why Opt For a Larger Garage Door Size?
While 16x7 feet are the typical dimensions you'll find, there are advantages to installing a larger garage door for your double car garage. A 18x8 feet door or even larger can offer a host of benefits such as:
- More room to maneuver your vehicles, thereby avoiding potential accidents or scratches.
- Additional storage space – a boon for those who collect tools or have voluminous recreational equipment.
- The possibility to house larger vehicles, such as SUVs, recreational vehicles, or some boats.
How to Measure Your Garage Door Correctly
Before choosing your garage door, ensure the measurements are correct. Keep in mind these steps when measuring your garage door:
- First, measure the width of the door from the center. Write down the largest measurement.
- Measure the height of the door from the floor to the top.
- Finally, measure from the garage door opening to the back of the garage for depth.
Different Garage Door Types and Their Sizes
Once you've taken your garage's measurements, consider the type of garage door that befits the size and aesthetic of your home. Here are some common types and their standard sizes.
- Single Layer Garage Doors: These are made from a single sheet of metal or other material. Their standard size is often 16x7 feet.
- Double Layer Garage Doors: These have an extra layer of either insulation or vinyl for more durability. They're often found in sizes around 18x7 feet.
- Triple Layer Garage Doors: These are the most robust, featuring two layers of galvanized steel with insulation in-between. Standard sizes for 2 car garages are usually 16x7 feet and 18x7 feet.
Frequently Asked Questions about 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions
Q2: What are Typical Dimensions for 2 Car Garage Doors?
Typically, the standard dimensions for a 2 car garage door range between 16x7 feet to 18x7 feet. However, the market also offers other size variants depending on the vehicles' size, garage space, and other specific requirements you may have.
Q3: Can I Customize My 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions?
Yes, you can customize your 2 car garage door dimensions. Customizable dimensions cater to your unique needs, especially when you have a restrictive garage structure or larger vehicles. Size customization can influence the overall cost, though, and it’s always wise to discuss this with a garage door professional before proceeding.
Q4: Do 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions Include the Frame?
In most cases, 2 car garage door dimensions only represent the door size. The frame or casing around your garage door will require additional space. Consult a professional about the dimensions of the frame during installation.
Q5: How Do 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions Affect the Garage Interior?
Two car garage door dimensions primarily define the amount of space your vehicles will consume. However, they indirectly impact the remainder of the garage interior, including the space left for storage, workspace, or other utilities.
Q6: Do 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions Affect the Price?
Yes, 2 car garage door dimensions can significantly impact the overall cost. Typically, larger doors are pricier due to the quantity of material and labor involved. However, the price can also fluctuate based on specific design features, construction materials, garage door opener systems, or customization.
Q7: Can I Fit Large Vehicles with Standard 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions?
Generally, standard 2 car garage door dimensions can accommodate most passenger cars, SUVs and small trucks. Nevertheless, if you have larger vehicles, like an oversized SUV, RV or a boat, you may need to consider custom garage door dimensions.
Q8: How to Measure 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions Before Installation?
Measuring 2 car garage door dimensions involves measuring the width and height of the opening. Ensure to account for any irregularities or bulges, as these can affect the door's fit and operation. For precise measurements, it's always best to consult with a professional installer.
Q9: Can I Change My Existing Garage Door to Different 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions?
Yes, you can change your existing garage door to accommodate different 2 car garage door dimensions. However, it might involve significant alterations to the existing garage structure and possibly impact the interior space. It’s advisable to consult with a garage door professional to understand the feasibility and costs involved.
Pros of 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions
Maximizing Space
One of the primary advantages of a 2 car garage door is its capacity to accommodate two vehicles comfortably. With typical dimensions ranging between 16x8 feet to 18x8 feet, homeowners can conveniently park two mediums sized cars side by side. These dimensions prove crucial for families who have more than one vehicle and want to protect them from the elements. It optimizes the use of garage space and avoids the need for additional parking space outdoors.
Additional Storage
2 car garage door with optimal dimensions does not only provide car parking space but can also incorporate storage shelving, workspaces, and tools for DIY projects. The dimensions comfortably allow the storage of outdoor gear, gardening equipment, bicycles, and even a small tool shed, all without compromising the area for your vehicles.
Increased Property Value
Having a two-car garage with standard dimensions can potentially increase a property's overall value. This feature is highly desirable, especially for potential homebuyers who wish for spacious and functional garage spaces. It provides a great return on investment when selling the property.
Cons of 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions
Greater Building and Maintenance Cost
One of the major drawbacks of a two-car garage door is the higher construction and maintenance cost. The larger the garage and its door, the more expensive it will be to build and maintain. The cost of materials necessary for a 2 car garage door, including the door itself, rails, and garage door opener, can be quite substantial in comparison to a single door garage. Furthermore, in case of repairs or replacements, larger doors tend to be more costly.
Need for More Space
A 2 car garage door requires a corresponding amount of space in your property. Homeowners should ensure that their property has enough area not just for the garage structure, but also for the driveway leading to it. A larger garage could also potentially encroach on useful yard space meant for other activities.
Difficulty with Individual Car Access
While a 2 car garage door allows you to park two cars side by side, it may present a challenge when you need to take out only one car. Both cars may have to be moved, causing an inconvenience, especially if they are parked in a tight configuration.
Factors to Consider
When deciding on the dimensions of a 2 car garage door, here are some considerations:
Size of the Cars
One primary factor that influences the decision about garage door dimensions is the size of the cars. Two smaller cars like hatchbacks or compact cars will require less space compared to two SUVs or larger cars.
Purpose and Usage
Mostly, a garage serves as a protective space for vehicles. However, if meant for other uses like storage or a workspace, then larger garage door dimensions may be necessary to accommodate not only the cars but additional items as well.
Available Property Area
Lastly, the available property space plays a significant role in determining the feasible dimensions of a 2 car garage door. It is important to balance the need for a larger garage with preserving other yard space for activities like gardening, outdoor grilling or even letting your children play. You need to design your garage considering all these factors.
Myths and Misconceptions about 2 Car Garage Door Dimensions
When it comes to garage door dimensions, particularly those for a two-car garage, there are a multitude of myths and misconceptions that are often accepted as fact. The truth, however, can be quite different. Let's dive into some of these myths and misconceptions to better inform homeowners, buyers and architects alike.
Myth 1: All 2 Car Garage Doors Have a Standard Size
Perhaps one of the most pervasive misunderstandings is the idea that there's a standard or universal size for two-car garage doors. Although it's true that there are common dimensions, particularly 16 x 7, 18 x 7 or 20 x 7 feet, these are not universally applicable for all garages. Factors such as the size of the vehicles, storage needs, and the architecture of your home can greatly influence the required dimensions of your garage door.
Myth 2: Two Single Garage Doors Are Similar to a Double Garage Door
While it may seem logical to assume that two single garage doors would offer the same space as a double garage door, it's simply not accurate. Two single garage doors will typically need a central pillar for support, which can significantly limit the available space and make parking larger vehicles like vans or SUVs more difficult.
Myth 3: Garage Doors Should Just Fit the Cars
Some people have the misapprehension that the dimensions of a garage door should only accommodate vehicles, neglecting to consider wider uses. A garage isn't just for cars - it can double as a storage space, a workshop, or hobby area. Thus, it’s worth considering a more spacious garage door to accommodate these needs and to navigate the garage area with ease.
Myth 4: Bigger Garage Doors are Always Better
"Go big or go home" might not be the best mantra when it comes to garage doors. An oversized door can appear disproportioned to your home's facade and might also require stronger (and more expensive) door opening mechanisms. Therefore, it's crucial to find a balance between efficiency, aesthetic appeal and cost.
Myth 5: Garage Door Dimensions Do Not Influence Home Value
Garage door dimensions can significantly impact your home's value, contrary to what some might assume. A well-sized and attractively styled garage door can enhance your home's curb appeal, potentially increasing its market value. In contrast, a poorly chosen garage door might detract from the overall aesthetic and functionality of the house, impacting the property’s value negatively.
Myth 6: 2 Car Garage Doors are Not Suitable for Large Vehicles
While a two-car garage door may typically be 16 to 20 feet wide, this doesn't necessarily mean it's inadequate for larger vehicles. With good maneuvering and strategic parking, most standard-sized two-car garage doors can accommodate larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks. Nonetheless, the garage's interior size is also a significant factor.
Myth 7: The Height of a Garage Door Isn't Important
Many individuals tend to focus only on the width of the garage door, entirely discarding the height. However, height plays a crucial role, particularly for tall vehicles. Many residential garage doors standardly stand 7 feet tall, but for accommodation of taller vans or trucks, you might need to consider a door 8 to 9 feet in height.
Myth 8: Custom Garage Door Dimensions are Prohibitively Expensive
While customization can command higher pricing, it doesn't necessarily mean it's unaffordable or doesn't provide value. Sometimes, custom sizing is imperative due to distinct house designs or specific requirements. Many garage door manufacturers offer affordable custom options that might save you money in the long run, considering factors like energy efficiency and improved house value.
Myth 9: Any Garage Door Will Fit My Existing Garage
This misconception can lead to costly mistakes. Before purchasing a garage door, ensure you have accurate measurements of your existing garage. Not all openings are standard, and not all doors will fit appropriately. It's important to measure both the width and height of your garage opening meticulously before making a purchase.
Understanding these misconceptions about two-car garage door dimensions can prevent costly errors and future regrets. It’s an important step in finding the perfect garage door that balances style, functionality, and cost.
Summary
From the discussion above, it's clear that 2 car garage door dimensions vary based on the number of vehicles you intend to park, the size of your vehicles, and other storage needs. Standard measurements range from 12x7 feet, 14x7 feet, and even up to 18x7 feet. Moreover, these dimensions would also duly consider ease of entry and exit, so you wouldn't have to worry squeezing in your pair of SUVs.
When dealing with 2 car garage door dimensions, it's crucial to keep a balance between functionality and design. While the width and height of the doors play a pivotal role in determining the suitability of the space, the design and aesthetics should not be compromised. NB. It's more than just about vehicular mobility, but also enhancing the curb appeal of your home, which certainly contributes to its overall value.
Lastly, understanding 2 car garage door dimensions can aid in planning and designing your garage to meet your personal requirements. Whether you're constructing a new home, retrofitting an existing space, or upgrading your garage door, being aware of the dimensions can prove instrumental. It saves you from future inconvenience, ensures a functional garage space and optimally utilizes the space available.
About 1A Garage Doors
At 1A Garage Doors of Sacramento, CA, we are your go-to experts for all your garage door needs! We're a local family-owned business dedicated to delivering top-notch service, quality products, and unmatched skill to our beloved Sacramento community. Boasting 25 years of industry experience, we navigate everything from minor repairs to the complete installation of garage doors with incredible precision and professionalism. We understand that every home is unique, hence we offer custom solutions to ensure your garage door complements your home's style while guaranteeing functionality and security. Day or night, rain or shine, 1A Garage Doors is at your service. Experience the difference today!
