Understanding Standard Garage Door Sizes and Dimensions
Quick Answer: What is the Average Garage Door Size?
For Washington state homeowners, the average garage door size varies depending on your setup. A single car garage door is generally 8 to 9 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet tall. Double garage doors are typically 16 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet tall. If you have larger vehicles like RVs, garage doors range from 12 to 14 feet high and 10 to 12 feet wide. Custom sizes can also be tailored to fit your unique needs, accommodating local regulations and the Northwest’s climate.
Choosing the correct garage door size is vital for both functionality and aesthetics. The standard garage door size varies depending on the type of garage you have, such as single, double, or RV garage doors. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore these different garage door sizes and the factors that influence the choice of the best fit for your new garage.
Standard Single Car Garage Door Size
A standard single-car garage door in Washington measures between 8 and 9 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet tall, fitting most cars and smaller SUVs commonly found in the region. This size is great for homes in urban areas like Seattle, Bellevue, or Tacoma, where space might be limited but functionality is key.
Standard Double Garage Door Size
For suburban and rural areas in Washington, such as cities like Puyallup, double garage doors are popular for homes with multiple vehicles. These doors typically measure 16 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet tall, providing plenty of space for two vehicles side by side. They also offer extra room for storage, which is perfect for those who enjoy Washington’s outdoor activities and need space for gear like bicycles, kayaks, or camping equipment.
RV Garage Door Size
For Washington residents with RVs or larger trucks, standard garage doors may not provide the necessary clearance. RV garage doors are larger, with a typical height of 12 to 14 feet and a width of 10 to 12 feet, offering plenty of space for oversized vehicles. This is particularly useful for those living near outdoor recreation areas, such as Mount Rainier or the Olympic Peninsula, where RV use is common.
Custom Garage Door Sizes
Custom garage doors are perfect for Washington homeowners with oversized vehicles, unique garage layouts, or specific design preferences. Whether you’re in a coastal town or near the mountains, custom doors allow flexibility to match your home’s style while ensuring protection against the weather conditions in the Pacific Northwest.
When do you need a custom garage door?
Custom garage doors are ideal when standard sizes don’t meet your needs. If you have an oversized vehicle, unique garage layout, or specific design preferences, a custom garage door can be made to ensure smooth functionality and complement your home’s style.
How to Get a Rough Measurement of Your Garage Door Opening for a Quote
Before getting a quote for a new garage door, it’s important to gather some basic measurements. Here’s how to do it:
- Measure the Width: Measure from one side of the garage opening to the other at the widest point.
- Measure the Height: From the floor to the top of the opening, measure the height of the space.
- Check Clearance: Measure the headroom (space between the top of the door and the ceiling) and the sideroom (space from the edge of the opening to the wall).
These measurements will help you get an accurate quote.
Before Ordering
Before placing an order, most garage door companies will come to your location to perform a site check. This ensures they have the correct measurements for your door, allowing them to order the correct size for installation.
Garage Door Size Considerations When Designing and Building a Garage in Washington State
When designing and building a new garage in Washington, several factors influence your garage door size:
- Vehicle Size: Plan for sufficient clearance, especially if you have larger vehicles like trucks or RVs, which are common for outdoor recreation in Washington.
- Garage Space: The amount of space available will help determine whether you need a single, double, or custom door, depending on your needs.
- Clearance Requirements: Ensure there’s adequate headroom and sideroom for the door’s hardware and tracks.
- Weather and Insulation: Given Washington’s weather extremes, including cold, wet winters and warmer summers, opt for insulated doors to maintain energy efficiency and climate control inside the garage. This is especially important if you plan to use the garage for more than just parking.
Garage Door Insulation and R-Values
In Washington state, where temperatures can range from damp coastal climates to cold mountainous areas, choosing an insulated garage door is essential for energy efficiency and comfort. The insulation quality is measured by the R-value, with higher numbers offering better thermal resistance.
For most homes in Washington, an R-value between R-10 and R-12 is sufficient for moderate climates, while areas prone to colder winters, such as higher elevations, benefit from doors with R-13 to R-20. Insulated doors not only regulate temperature but also provide added durability and noise reduction, making them an excellent investment for any home.
Building Code and Garage Door Sizes
One of the final steps when selecting your garage door is ensuring that it adheres to local building codes. Many regions have specific standards for garage door sizes, especially for larger or commercial buildings. It’s essential to consult with your garage door installer or builder to make sure your door size complies with these requirements.
Why building codes matter
Building codes ensure that your garage door is not only functional but safe. They establish guidelines for installation, materials, and operation to reduce the risk of accidents, damage, or other complications. This is particularly important for large, heavy garage doors like those used for RVs, which must meet specific standards to ensure they can be safely opened and closed.
Conclusion
Selecting the right garage door size in Washington is essential to ensure it functions properly and complements your home’s style. Whether you need a standard single, double, or custom door, taking into account the size of your vehicles, your garage space, and local weather conditions will help you find the perfect fit. Make sure to consult local experts to comply with Washington’s building codes and enjoy a long-lasting, well-fitted garage door for years to come.
