Release Date 2025-09-23
Garage door dimensions vary significantly between the US and Europe due to differences in vehicle sizes, architectural traditions, and measurement systems. Below is a detailed breakdown of standard sizes, variations, and practical considerations for both regions:
American garage doors follow imperial units and prioritize accommodating larger vehicles like SUVs and pickup trucks. Sizes are standardized for easy replacement and widespread availability in home improvement stores.
1. Single-Car Garage Doors
Width:
Most common: 8 feet (2.4m) and 9 feet (2.7m) . The 9-foot width is increasingly preferred for modern vehicles to reduce fender-scraping risks.
Narrower options: 5–7 feet (1.5–2.1m) for golf carts or small utility vehicles in residential communities.
Height:
Standard: 7 feet (2.1m), suitable for most sedans and compact SUVs .
Taller variants: 8 feet (2.4m) for larger SUVs, trucks with roof racks, or lifted vehicles.
Panel Configuration:
7-foot doors typically use 4 panels (each 21 inches tall).
8-foot doors often combine 21-inch and 18-inch panels for structural balance.
2. Double-Car Garage Doors
Width:
Minimum: 14 feet (4.3m), but 16 feet (4.9m) is the most prevalent for two full-size cars.
Larger options: 18 feet (5.5m) or 20 feet (6.1m) for families with multiple large vehicles.
Height:
Same as single-car doors: 7 feet (2.1m) standard, 8 feet (2.4m) for taller vehicles.
Alternative Design:
Some homes opt for two separate single-car doors (e.g., two 9-foot doors) instead of one large double door, offering better flexibility for partial openings.
European Standard Garage Door Sizes
European dimensions follow the metric system and reflect narrower streets, smaller vehicle sizes, and diverse architectural styles. Sizes are more varied to suit compact urban homes and historic buildings.
1. Single-Car Garage Doors
Width:
Typical range: 2.0m–3.0m (6.5ft–9.8ft), with 2.13m (7ft) and 2.5m (8.2ft) as common choices.
Narrower options: 1.83m (6ft) for compact cars in older urban areas.
Height:
Standard: 2.13m (7ft), sufficient for most European vehicles.
Variants: Up to 2.5m (8.2ft) for vans or SUVs like the Volkswagen Tiguan.
2. Double-Car Garage Doors
Width:
Common range: 3.2m–4.88m (10.5ft–16ft), with 4.27m (14ft) and 4.88m (16ft) as typical sizes.
Wider options: Up to 5.0m (16.4ft) for modern homes with two large vehicles.
Height:
Matches single-car doors at 2.13m (7ft) standard, with 2.4m (7.9ft) available for taller models.
Tips for Selection
Vehicle Fit: Measure your car’s width, height, and door-opening radius (especially for SUVs/trucks).
Garage Layout: Account for ceiling height (US sectional doors need 25–30cm headroom) and side space (European sliding doors require lateral clearance).
Local Standards: Check regional building codes (e.g., insulation requirements in cold climates affect door thickness).
Whether in the US or Europe, standard sizes ensure compatibility, but custom options are widely available to meet specific needs. Always measure your garage opening precisely before purchasing!
