Did you know that garage doors come in different sizes? So, it’s important to measure your garage door opening before shopping for a new one. This will ensure that you get the right size. In this blog post, we will show you how are garage doors measured. We will also give you some tips on looking for when purchasing a new garage door. So, let’s get started!
Summary: Garage doors are measured by their width and height. To measure the width, measure from one side of the door opening to the other side. To measure the height, measure from the floor to the top of the opening. It is important to measure accurately to ensure the proper size door is purchased.
What Is a Garage Doors?
A garage door is a large door on a garage that opens either manually or by an electric motor (a garage door opener). Garage doors are frequently steel, aluminum, wood, or fiberglass. Most doors on residential garages are sectional roll-up doors.
Sectional doors have several horizontal panels that roll up along tracks at the side of the garage door opening. The door springs help offset the door’s weight so that a person can open and close it with ease. There are also one-piece tilt-up doors. These doors are opened by raising and lowering into the garage on a metal track.
The major disadvantage to tilt-up garage doors is that they cannot be insulated very well because they have only one layer of paneling. In cold climates, they can also be difficult to open if the bottom panel is frozen to the ground.
Garage doors typically have either square or round handles used to open the door manually in case of power outages or other malfunctions with the opener.
Why It’s Important to Measure a Garage Door?
Measuring a garage door is important for many reasons. First, it helps to ensure that the door will fit properly in the opening. Second, it helps to determine the correct spring size for the door. Third, it allows for proper installation of the tracks and brackets.
Fourth, it ensures that the opener will have enough power to lift the door. Finally, it helps prevent damage to the door and opener by making sure that they are compatible. By measuring a garage door, homeowners can be sure that their investment will last for years to come.
How to Measure a Garage Door Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials:
Before you begin measuring your garage door, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a tape measure, a notepad or sketchpad, a pen or pencil, and a ladder if necessary for reaching high areas.
Step 2: Measure the Width of the Garage Door Opening:
To measure the width of your garage door opening, extend your tape measure from one side of the opening to the other. Be sure to measure from the inside edge of the frame on one side to the inside edge of the frame on the opposite side. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters, depending on your preference.
Step 3: Measure the Height of the Garage Door Opening:
Next, measure the height of the garage door opening by extending your tape measure from the garage floor to the top of the opening. Be sure to measure from the floor to the inside edge of the frame at the top. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
Step 4: Measure the Left and Right Side Room:
To determine the amount of side room available for the garage door installation, measure the distance from the inside edge of the door opening to the nearest wall or obstruction on both the left and right sides. This measurement will help you determine if there is enough space for the tracks and other hardware required for the garage door installation. Record these measurements in inches or centimeters.
Step 5: Measure the Headroom:
The headroom is the space between the top of the garage door opening and the ceiling or the lowest point of any obstructions, such as beams or ductwork. To measure the headroom, extend your tape measure from the top edge of the door opening to the ceiling or lowest obstruction. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters. Keep in mind that different garage door types may require different amounts of headroom for proper installation and operation.
Step 6: Measure the Backroom:
The backroom is the space inside the garage from the door opening to the back wall or the nearest obstruction. This measurement is important because it determines the space available for the garage door to fully open and retract. To measure the backroom, extend your tape measure from the inside edge of the door opening to the back wall or nearest obstruction. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
Step 7: Measure the Thickness of the Garage Door:
If you are replacing an existing garage door, measure the thickness of the door panels. This information will be helpful when selecting a new door, as it will affect the weight and required hardware for installation. To measure the thickness, use your tape measure to measure the edge of one of the door panels. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
Step 8: Record and Verify Measurements:
After measuring all the necessary dimensions, record the measurements on your notepad or sketchpad. Double-check the measurements to ensure their accuracy. Having accurate measurements is crucial for selecting the appropriate garage door size and type, as well as ensuring a proper fit during installation.
Step 9: Consult a Garage Door Professional:
Once you have gathered all the necessary measurements, consult a garage door professional to help you select the appropriate door size, type, and hardware for your specific garage space. They can also assist you in determining any additional considerations or modifications that may be required for the installation.
By following these steps, you can accurately measure your garage door opening and surrounding space, allowing you to select the right garage door for your home. Accurate measurements are essential for ensuring a proper fit, smooth operation, and the overall safety and security of your garage door.
Step 10: Measure the Garage Door Opening Radius:
The garage door opening radius is the curved section at the top of the garage door opening where the door transitions from vertical to horizontal. This measurement is important for determining the appropriate track system and hardware for your garage door. To measure the radius, use a straightedge or a long level to extend a line horizontally from the top corners of the garage door opening. Measure the distance from the point where the line intersects the curved portion of the opening to the top edge of the opening. Record this measurement in inches or centimeters.
Step 11: Note the Type of Garage Door Opener:
If you already have a garage door opener installed or plan to install one, take note of its type (chain drive, belt drive, screw drive, or direct drive) and specifications (such as horsepower or voltage). This information will help you ensure compatibility with your new garage door and may influence your choice of door type or material.
Step 12: Consider the Garage Door Material and Insulation:
When measuring your garage door, it’s also important to consider the material and insulation options available for your new door. Different materials, such as steel, aluminum, wood, or composite, will have different weights, durability, and maintenance requirements. Insulation is another factor to consider, as it can impact the energy efficiency of your home, as well as the noise levels within the garage.
Step 13: Create a Garage Door Measurement Diagram:
Using your recorded measurements, create a diagram of your garage door opening and surrounding space. This diagram should include the width, height, side room, headroom, backroom, door thickness, and opening radius measurements. Be sure to label each measurement clearly and include any additional notes or considerations, such as obstructions or unique features of your garage space.
Step 14: Share Your Measurements with a Garage Door Dealer or Installer:
Once you have completed your garage door measurement diagram, share it with a reputable garage door dealer or installer. They can use this information to help you select the appropriate garage door and provide an accurate installation quote. Be prepared to discuss your preferences for door material, insulation, and style, as well as any specific requirements or constraints related to your garage space.
Step 15: Schedule a Professional Measurement if Necessary:
If you are unsure about your measurements or have concerns about the accuracy of your measurements, consider scheduling a professional measurement service. Many garage door dealers and installers offer this service to ensure that the selected garage door will fit correctly and operate safely in your space.
By following these comprehensive steps, you will have a clear understanding of your garage door’s dimensions and requirements. This information is crucial in selecting the right garage door for your home and ensuring a proper installation. With accurate measurements and professional assistance, you can enjoy the benefits of a new garage door that fits seamlessly into your garage space and enhances your home’s functionality, security, and curb appeal.
So, How Are Garage Doors Measured?
Most people don’t think too much about their garage door. It’s just something that opens and closes to get your car in and out. Well, there’s a little more to it than that. Believe it or not, there is a science to garage door measurements.
The standard size for a residential garage door is 9 feet wide and 7 feet tall. However, doors can range from 6 feet wide to 18 feet wide and 4 feet tall to 8 feet tall. Therefore, when measuring your garage door, it’s important to consider the height of your ceilings and the width of your garage opening.
You also need to factor in the type of door you want. For example, a roll-up door will require more headroom than a hinged door. Once you have this information, you can begin shopping for your new garage door!
Conclusion
Garage door sizes are measured in width, height, and thickness. It is important to know the size of your garage door before you start shopping to find one that will fit properly. Be sure to ask the installer about the rough opening size, so you know what to expect when your new garage door arrives.
Thanks for reading our post about how are garage doors measured. If you have any other questions about measuring or sizing a garage door, leave them in the comments below, and we’ll do our best to answer them.
