Discover the standard width of a single garage door in 2025, including size options, tips for choosing the right fit, and answers to common questions.
Knowing the width of a single garage door is important to make sure it fits. In 2025, it’s good to have the latest information. This guide answers the question, “how wide is a single garage door?” so you can choose the right size for your home.
A standard single garage door is 8 feet wide, but sizes can range from 7 feet to 9 feet. Custom sizes up to 10 feet are also available. If you’re in Noblesville, Protech Garage Door can help you find and install the perfect garage door for your space.
Standard Width of a Single Garage Door (2025 Update)
Notable Trends in 2025:
- Wider Doors for Larger Vehicles: With the increasing size of modern vehicles, doors measuring 9 feet and 10 feet are becoming more common to accommodate SUVs, trucks, and vans comfortably.
- Custom Sizes: Some homeowners opt for custom widths, such as 8.5 or 9.5 feet, to better fit their specific vehicle dimensions.
- Height Variations: While 7 feet is standard, 8-foot-tall doors are increasingly popular to provide additional clearance for taller vehicles or to allow for overhead storage.
Types of Single Garage Doors
When choosing a single garage door, it’s not just about size, material, style, and functionality; it matters too. The most common types include:
Roll-Up Garage Doors
Roll-up garage doors are perfect for smaller spaces. These doors roll into a compact coil above the opening, freeing up room and making them a great choice for tight garages. They are strong and durable, offering an easy solution for areas where space is limited.
Sectional Garage Doors
Sectional garage doors are the most popular option for homes. Made of several horizontal panels, these doors slide upwards and fold into the ceiling, saving space. They are easy to operate, provide great insulation, and are a reliable choice for many residential garages.
Side-Hinged Garage Doors
Side-hinged garage doors open like regular doors, swinging outward. This style makes them great for people who need quick pedestrian access without opening the entire door. They offer a traditional, charming look and are often chosen for ease of use and aesthetic appeal.
Tilt-Up Doors
Tilt-up garage doors are made from one solid panel that tilts upwards when opened. While less common today, they are still found in some older homes. This door style has a simple design but requires more space in front of the garage to operate properly.
Factors That Affect Garage Door Size
Understanding what affects garage door size is important when planning a new garage door or upgrading an old one. The right size depends on your needs, vehicle type, and even local rules.
Vehicle Size
The size of your vehicle plays a big role in choosing the right garage door. Compact cars easily fit through an 8-foot door, but larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, require wider doors, typically 9 or 10 feet, to ensure easy access without squeezing.
Storage Needs
If you use your garage as a storage space in addition to parking, a larger door is essential. Extra width or height provides space for storing bikes, tools, or other equipment while keeping your vehicle safe. This makes it easier to organize everything efficiently.
Local Building Codes
Local building codes can impact the size of your garage door. Many cities have rules for the width or height of garage doors to meet safety standards or community guidelines. Make sure to check these regulations to avoid any issues with your local authorities.
Renovation vs. New Construction
When building a new home, you have the freedom to select any garage door size that fits your needs. However, during renovations, you may be limited by the existing opening dimensions unless you decide to reframe the structure to accommodate a larger door.
How to Choose the Right Size for Your Garage Door
Choosing the right garage door size helps you avoid future problems and ensures a perfect fit. It’s not just about today’s needs; thinking ahead can save time and money later.
1. Measure Your Opening
- Measure the width and height of your garage door opening using a tape measure.
- Don’t forget to check the side room and headroom for proper door clearance.
- Write down the measurements carefully to match the correct garage door size.
2. Plan for the Future
- Consider future needs, such as upgrading to a larger SUV or truck.
- Choose a wider or taller garage door now to avoid future replacements.
- Knowing how wide a single garage door is helps you plan better for long-term use.
3. Go Custom if Needed
- Go custom if your current garage opening doesn’t fit standard sizes.
- It’s a good option for unique home designs or added storage space.
- Though it may cost more, a custom garage door gives a better fit and look.
Single vs. Double Garage Doors: Which One Is Right for You
When deciding between a single or double garage door, it’s essential to consider your needs, space, and budget. Here’s a quick comparison to help you make an informed choice.
1. Single Garage Doors
- Pros:
- Ideal for smaller homes or one-car garages.
- Cost-effective with lower installation and maintenance costs.
- Easier to operate manually, especially if the door is smaller.
- Ideal for smaller homes or one-car garages.
- Cons:
- Limited space for parking or storage.
- May feel cramped for larger vehicles or multiple cars.
- Not suitable for homes that require more than one car space.
- Limited space for parking or storage.
2. Double Garage Doors
- Pros:
- Provides ample space for two cars or extra storage.
- Easier access for larger vehicles and trucks.
- Can enhance curb appeal with a larger, more impressive door.
- Provides ample space for two cars or extra storage.
- Cons:
- Higher initial cost and maintenance fees.
- Requires more space in the driveway.
- Larger doors may be more difficult to operate manually.
- Higher initial cost and maintenance fees.
Tips for Measuring Your Garage Door Opening Accurately
To make sure your garage door fits well, accurate measurements are important. Follow these easy steps to measure your garage door opening so you can choose the right door size for your space.
Measure the Width
Measure the width from the left side to the right side of the opening, inside the frame. Do this at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening to check for any differences. A single garage door is usually 8 to 10 feet wide.
Measure the Height
To measure the height, check the distance from the floor to the top of the opening. Measure on both the left and right sides to ensure the height is even and to get an accurate measurement.
Check the Side Room
Make sure there’s enough space on each side of the opening. You need at least 3.5 to 4 inches on each side for the vertical tracks. This is needed for the door to move smoothly when it opens and closes.
Check the Headroom
Measure the space from the top of the opening to the ceiling. You need at least 10 to 12 inches of space for a standard garage door opener to work properly. This space ensures the door can open without hitting the ceiling.
Measure the Backroom
The backroom is the space from the door opening to the back wall of the garage. It’s important to measure this area to ensure there’s enough room for the door to fully open and retract without any obstructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Standard Width of a Single Garage Door in 2025?
In 2025, the standard width for a single new garage door is about 9 feet. This size fits most cars, SUVs, and small trucks. It gives enough space to drive in and out without hitting the sides.
What Is the Minimum Width for a Single Garage Door?
The smallest width for a single garage door is usually 8 feet. This size works for small cars, but it might be too tight for wider vehicles. A 9-foot door gives more room and is easier to use.
Can an SUV Fit Through an 8-Foot-Wide Garage Door?
Yes, most SUVs can fit through an 8-foot-wide garage door, but it may be a tight fit. Larger SUVs might have less space on the sides. A 9-foot door is better if you want more room to park easily.
How Much Side Clearance Is Needed for a Garage Door?
You should have at least 3 inches of space on each side of the garage door. This space is needed for the tracks and hardware to fit and work properly. Not enough space can cause problems during installation or while opening.
Can I Convert Two Single Garage Doors into One Double Door?
Yes, you can convert two single garage doors into one double door. This means removing the center post and adding support for the wider opening. It costs more but gives you more space and makes parking easier.
Conclusion
When choosing a garage door, size matters. A standard single garage door is typically 8 feet wide, but custom options up to 10 feet are available. This ensures you find the right fit for your home’s unique needs.
If you’re wondering “how wide is a single garage door,” it’s essential to understand the different sizes. A proper fit will ensure smooth operation and avoid costly adjustments later. Knowing your options is key to making the right choice.
Protech Garage Door in Noblesville is here to help you select and install the perfect new garage door. Whether you’re replacing an old one or upgrading, we offer expert service to ensure a smooth, seamless process from start to finish. Call us today at 317-316-1073 for assistance!
End Note
If you’re looking for reliable and affordable garage door services, Protech Garage Door is here to help. We specialize in both garage door repairs and new installations. Visit our website to learn more about our services and explore our About page for additional information on who we are.
Take a look at our gallery to see the quality of our work. We provide expert services for new garage door installations and have a range of garage door openers to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a new door or need garage door repairs in Noblesville or Fishers, IN, we’ve got you covered.
Stay connected with us on Facebook and Instagram to get the latest updates on our services. For any inquiries or to schedule a service, visit our contact page. Protech Garage Door is your trusted partner for all your garage door needs.
