How Big Is A Standard 2 Car Garage Door

Dimensions of a Standard 2-Car Garage Door

A standard 2-car garage door plays a crucial role in the functionality and aesthetics of your home. Whether you're building a new garage or replacing an existing one, choosing the right size is essential to ensure proper operation and maximize space utilization. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on the standard dimensions of a 2-car garage door, including width, height, and installation considerations.

Width

The width of a standard 2-car garage door is typically 16 feet (4.88 meters). This measurement is taken from the inside edge of the door frame on one side to the inside edge of the door frame on the opposite side. A 16-foot door allows ample space for two average-sized vehicles to enter and exit the garage comfortably. If you have larger vehicles or plan to use the garage for storage, you may want to consider a wider door, such as 18 or 20 feet.

Height

The standard height of a 2-car garage door is 7 feet (2.13 meters). This height provides sufficient clearance for most vehicles and allows you to fully utilize the interior space of the garage. If you have an SUV or a vehicle with a roof rack, you might opt for an 8-foot-tall door to ensure adequate headroom. Taller garage doors are also recommended for garages used for recreational vehicles or storage purposes.

Installation Considerations

When installing a 2-car garage door, several factors need to be taken into account to ensure proper operation and longevity. These include:

Headroom: The headroom is the vertical space between the top of the garage door opening and the ceiling. Standard headroom for a 7-foot garage door is 12-14 inches. Taller doors require more headroom.
Backroom: The backroom is the space behind the garage door when it is fully open. Typically, a backroom of 18-24 inches is required for proper counterweight clearance.
Side Clearance: Side clearance refers to the horizontal space between the edge of the garage door and the side jambs. Standard side clearance is 6-8 inches on each side.
Apron: The apron is the concrete slab or floor area below the garage door opening. It typically extends 6-8 inches beyond the garage door opening on all sides.

Benefits of a Standard 2-Car Garage Door

Choosing a standard 2-car garage door offers numerous advantages, including:

Functionality: A 16-foot wide and 7-foot tall garage door provides ample space for two average-sized vehicles.
Variety: Standard garage doors come in a wide range of styles, materials, and colors, allowing you to match the architectural design of your home.
Affordability: Standard garage doors are generally more cost-effective than custom-sized doors.
Easy Installation: Standard garage doors are readily available and can be installed by qualified professionals.

Conclusion

The dimensions of a standard 2-car garage door are crucial for ensuring proper functionality and space utilization. By understanding the typical width, height, and installation considerations, you can make an informed decision when selecting and installing a garage door that meets your needs. A standard 16-foot wide and 7-foot tall garage door provides ample space for two vehicles, offers a wide range of options, and is cost-effective. Whether you're building a new garage or upgrading your existing one, choosing the right garage door size is essential for maximizing the functionality and curb appeal of your home.