Thinking of upgrading to a custom garage door or replacing your old one? Before you start browsing designs or contacting a garage door company, it’s essential to get accurate measurements. Knowing the right dimensions ensures a perfect fit, smooth installation, and better performance.
In this quick guide, we’ll walk you through how to measure for a new garage door, whether you're building new or planning a replacement.
Tools You’ll Need
- Tape measure (at least 25 feet)
- Step ladder
- Notepad or phone for recording
- Flashlight (for dimly lit garages)
Key Garage Door Measurements You Need
For accurate quoting and installation, you’ll need to measure the following six areas:
1. Width of the Opening (Garage Door Width)
Measure: From the left to the right inside the garage door frame (the widest part of the opening).
This is the garage door width. Common widths are 8', 9', 16', or custom garage door sizes for larger openings.
2. Height of the Opening (Garage Door Height)
Measure: From the floor to the top of the opening.
This is your garage door height. Standard heights are 7' or 8', but taller options are available for RVs or modern builds.
3. Side Room (Space on Each Side of the Opening)
Measure: From the edge of the opening to the adjacent wall (on both left and right sides).
You’ll need at least 3.5" on each side for vertical tracks and mounting hardware. Wider doors or insulated garage doors may require more.
4. Headroom (Space Above the Opening)
Measure: From the top of the door opening to the ceiling or lowest obstruction.
Minimum required:
- 10"–12" for standard garage doors
- 15"+ for doors with torsion springs or openers
5. Backroom (Depth of the Garage)
Measure: From the garage door opening to the back wall of the garage.
You’ll need the door height + 18 inches for most standard installations. Add more if you plan to install an automatic garage door opener.
6. Obstructions (Pipes, Lights, or Storage Units)
Check for anything that might interfere with the door tracks, opener, or spring system. Note down:
- Pipes or ductwork
- Shelving or storage
- Light fixtures or beams
Pro Tips
Double-check your measurements. Even a 1-inch difference can affect fit and function.
Measure in inches and feet—most manufacturers use both.
Take pictures of the space to help your installer assess potential challenges.
Consult a professional before ordering a custom or oversized garage door.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
Choosing a custom garage door is an investment in your home’s curb appeal, security, and functionality. But even the most stylish wood-look aluminum garage doors won’t perform well if they don’t fit perfectly. At Doorix, we help customers turn their vision into reality—with expert support at every step, from measurement to final installation.
Ready to Upgrade?
If you're considering a garage door replacement or want a custom garage door tailored to your home, accurate measurements are the first step. Not sure where to start? Let our team help.
