How Wide Is a Garage Door

Why Garage Door Width Matters

When planning a new garage door or replacing an old one, knowing the correct width is essential. The size affects what type of vehicle can fit comfortably, whether you can move bikes or lawnmowers alongside the car, and how easy the door will be to install. In the UK, garage door widths follow common standard sizes, but they can also be made to measure. Understanding the usual widths helps homeowners make informed decisions about what type of door they need and whether any building adjustments will be required.

Standard Single Garage Door Widths

A single garage door is designed for one car. The most common standard width in the UK is around 7 feet, or 2134mm. This size works for most small to medium cars, though it can feel tight for larger SUVs or 4x4s. Some newer homes and garages use slightly wider doors, often 7 feet 6 inches, which is about 2286mm. This extra width makes everyday use more convenient, especially if you want to open car doors inside without too much squeezing.

At the smaller end, older properties may still have garage doors as narrow as 6 feet 6 inches, or around 1980mm. These can be restrictive, particularly for modern cars, which are generally wider than those built in the 1970s and 1980s. Homeowners with narrow garages sometimes choose to widen the opening when replacing a door, though this involves additional building work and costs.

Standard Double Garage Door Widths

For garages designed to accommodate two cars side by side, a double garage door is usually fitted. In the UK, the most common width for a double garage door is around 14 feet, or 4267mm. This allows two standard vehicles to fit through comfortably. Some double doors are slightly narrower at 13 feet, but this can feel cramped if both cars are large. Wider options of 16 feet or more are available for those with bigger vehicles or who simply want extra space for storage along the sides.

Roller and Sectional Garage Door Widths

The type of door you choose can also affect the usable width. Roller doors, which roll up into a box above the opening, make full use of the garage width because they have no side runners. Sectional doors also give the full opening width, as they lift vertically and run back on ceiling tracks. By contrast, traditional up and over doors require side frames, which slightly reduce the clear opening width available. This is worth considering when measuring your garage for replacement.

Custom and Made to Measure Widths

Not every garage conforms to standard sizes, particularly if it was built as part of an extension or conversion. In these cases, a made to measure garage door can be ordered to fit the exact width of the opening. Most manufacturers in the UK offer custom widths up to about 5 metres for residential properties. This allows flexibility for those with unusual garage dimensions or specialist requirements. Made to measure doors do cost more than standard models, but they ensure a neat fit and better performance.

Choosing the Right Width for Your Needs

When deciding how wide your garage door should be, think about the vehicles you own now and any you might buy in the future. A 7-foot door is usually fine for hatchbacks and saloons, but if you own a large SUV or van, consider at least 7 feet 6 inches or more. For double garages, 14 feet is the practical minimum, but going wider can make day-to-day use far easier. If you plan to store other items such as bikes, freezers, or garden tools along the sides, extra width is valuable. Always measure your existing opening carefully, and if you are building new, allow a little extra width for convenience.

Conclusion

The width of a garage door in the UK varies depending on whether it is a single or double door, the type of mechanism, and whether it is a standard or custom fit. Typical single doors are 7 feet wide, with 7 feet 6 inches becoming more common in modern builds, while double doors are generally 14 feet wide. Roller and sectional doors make the most of the available space, while up and over doors reduce the clear width slightly due to their frames. For unusual garages, made to measure options are always available. By understanding the typical sizes and considering your own needs, you can choose the right width for long-term convenience and practicality.