As a homeowner in the Greater Toronto Area, selecting the right garage door size is a decision that significantly impacts both the functionality of your home and its overall value. Whether you’re building a new garage, replacing an existing garage door, or renovating your current space, understanding garage door sizes is essential for making an informed choice.
Standard Garage Door Sizes
Single Car Garage Doors: Typical Dimensions
Single car garage doors are the most common type for residential properties with limited space or those needing just one vehicle entrance.
| Width | Height | Recommended Depth |
| 8' (2.4m) | 7' (2.1m) | 18' (5.5m) |
| 9' (2.7m) | 7' (2.1m) | 20' (6.1m) |
| 9' (2.7m) | 8' (2.4m) | 20' (6.1m) |
| 10' (3.0m) | 7' (2.1m) | 22' (6.7m) |
| 10' (3.0m) | 8' (2.4m) | 22' (6.7m) |
Single car garage doors are best suited for:
- Small to mid-sized vehicles
- Properties with space constraints
- Urban homes in the Greater Toronto Area where space is at a premium
- Homeowners with only one vehicle
"When considering a single car garage door, always account for extra width if you drive a larger vehicle or need space to open car doors comfortably. A common mistake is choosing a door that's technically large enough for your car but doesn't provide that needed buffer space." - Cherry Jian, Sales Consultant
1.5 Car Garage Door Size
A 1.5 car garage door offers a middle ground between single and double doors, providing extra space without the full width of a double door.
Dimensions and Considerations
| Width | Height | Recommended Depth |
| 10' (3.0m) | 7' (2.1m) | 20' (6.1m) |
| 10' (3.0m) | 8' (2.4m) | 20' (6.1m) |
| 12' (3.7m) | 7' (2.1m) | 22' (6.7m) |
| 12' (3.7m) | 8' (2.4m) | 22' (6.7m) |
This size is ideal for:
- Single car parking with additional storage space
- Accommodating a vehicle plus recreational equipment
- Narrower lots where a double door won’t fit
- Homeowners who want extra space without the cost of a full double garage
"The 1.5 car garage door is one of our most requested options for Toronto's older neighborhoods. It provides that sweet spot between functionality and space efficiency, giving homeowners the flexibility for a vehicle plus storage or workspace." - Daniel Klein, Project Manager
Double Garage Doors: Standard Width and Height
Double garage doors provide a wider entrance, typically accommodating two vehicles parked side by side.
| Width | Height | Recommended Depth |
| 14' (4.3m) | 7' (2.1m) | 20' (6.1m) |
| 15' (4.6m) | 7' (2.1m) | 21' (6.4m) |
| 16' (4.9m) | 7' (2.1m) | 22' (6.7m) |
| 16' (4.9m) | 8' (2.4m) | 22' (6.7m) |
| 18' (5.5m) | 7' (2.1m) | 24' (7.3m) |
| 18' (5.5m) | 8' (2.4m) | 24' (7.3m) |
Specialized Garage Door Sizes
RV and Large Vehicle Garage Doors
For homeowners with recreational vehicles, boats, or oversized vehicles, standard garage doors often won’t suffice. RV garage doors are specifically designed to accommodate these larger vehicles.
Oversized Door Dimensions
| Width | Height | Recommended Depth |
| 12' (3.7m) | 10' (3.0m) | 35' (10.7m) |
| 12' (3.7m) | 12' (3.7m) | 40' (12.2m) |
| 14' (4.3m) | 12' (3.7m) | 40' (12.2m) |
| 14' (4.3m) | 14' (4.3m) | 42' (12.8m) |
| 16' (4.9m) | 12' (3.7m) | 45' (13.7m) |
| 16' (4.9m) | 14' (4.3m) | 45' (13.7m) |
Custom Garage Door Sizes
When standard sizes don’t meet your needs, custom garage doors offer a tailored solution.
When to Consider Custom Doors
- Unique architectural designs
- Heritage properties with non-standard openings
- Special vehicle requirements
- Space optimization in unusual layouts
"In the Greater Toronto Area, we've seen increasing demand for custom garage door sizes, especially in custom-built homes. Homeowners want to maximize their space while complementing their home's unique architecture. Custom doors allow for that perfect fit that standard sizes simply can't provide." - Alexandr Naumov, Project Manager
Choosing the Right Garage Door Size:
Factors to Consider
1. Number and Type of Vehicles
Consider not just your current vehicles but potential future purchases:
- Compact car: Minimum 8′ width door
- Mid-size SUV: Minimum 9′ width door
- Full-size pickup truck: Minimum 10′ width door
- Multiple vehicles: 16’+ width door
2. Storage Needs
Many homeowners use their garage for more than just parking:
- Garden equipment storage
- Workshop space
- Seasonal item storage
- Recreational equipment
3. Future Planning
Think ahead to potential changes:
- Family growth and additional vehicles
- Hobby interests requiring more space
- Aging considerations for easier access
- Possible home resale value
4. Garage Layout and Space Constraints
- Door location relative to driveway
- Interior obstacles or features
- Wall space for door hardware
- Ceiling height limitations
How to Accurately Measure Your Garage Opening
- Measure width: Take three horizontal measurements—at the bottom, middle, and top of the opening. Use the smallest measurement.
- Measure height: Take three vertical measurements—at the left, center, and right of the opening. Use the smallest measurement.
- Measure depth: Measure from the garage door opening to the back wall or to any obstruction.
- Measure headroom: The space between the top of the door opening and the ceiling.
- Measure side room: The space on either side of the door opening.
Tools Needed
- Tape measure (minimum 25′)
- Step ladder
- Helper for assistance
- Paper and pencil for recording measurements
- Level to ensure accuracy
Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid
- Measuring only in one spot
- Failing to account for trim or molding
- Not checking for square corners
- Overlooking headroom requirements for door tracks and openers
- Forgetting to measure depth necessary for door operation
Cost and Value Considerations
Relationship Between Door Size and Cost
Garage door costs increase with size due to:
- Additional materials required
- Larger and more powerful operating mechanisms
- More complex installation requirements
- Increased shipping and handling expenses
For example, based on our experience at Total Home Windows and Doors, here’s an approximate price comparison for different garage door sizes in the Greater Toronto Area:
| Door Type | Size (Width × Height) | Average Price Range |
| Single Car | 8' × 7' | $1,100 - $2,200 |
| Single Car | 9' × 7' | $1,200 - $2,500 |
| Single Car | 10' × 7' | $1,300 - $2,700 |
| 1.5 Car | 10' × 7' | $1,400 - $2,800 |
| 1.5 Car | 12' × 7' | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Double Car | 14' × 7' | $1,600 - $3,200 |
| Double Car | 16' × 7' | $1,800 - $3,500 |
| Double Car | 18' × 7' | $2,000 - $3,800 |
| RV/Oversized | 12' × 10' | $2,200 - $4,500 |
| RV/Oversized | 14' × 12' | $2,500 - $5,000+ |
| RV/Oversized | 16' × 14' | $3,000 - $6,000+ |
| Custom Sizes | Varies | +15-30% above standard |
Cost-Effective Sizing Strategies
- Choose standard sizes where possible
- Consider two single doors instead of one custom oversized door
- Balance current needs with future requirements
- Explore space-saving door types (roll-up, sliding) for unusual spaces
Value Added to Property
A properly sized garage door adds significant value to your home:
- Improved curb appeal
- Enhanced functionality
- Better energy efficiency
- Increased home marketability
According to real estate data in the Greater Toronto Area, homes with appropriately sized and well-designed garage doors can see a return on investment of 80-85% of the project cost.
"When considering a single car garage door, always account for extra width if you drive a larger vehicle or need space to open car doors comfortably. A common mistake is choosing a door that's technically large enough for your car but doesn't provide that needed buffer space." - Cherry Jian, Sales Consultant
Conclusion
Selecting the right garage door size is a crucial decision that affects your home’s functionality, appearance, and value. By understanding standard sizes, considering your specific needs, and planning for the future, you can make an informed choice that serves you well for years to come.
Remember that while DIY measurements can provide a starting point, professional measurement is essential for ensuring your new garage door fits perfectly. Our team at Total Home Windows and Doors offers complimentary in-home consultations to help you determine the ideal garage door size for your specific situation.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation
Take the first step toward the perfect garage door for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the standard sizes for single garage doors?
Single garage doors typically range from 8′ to 10′ wide and 7′ to 8′ high. These dimensions comfortably fit one car while allowing enough space for opening car doors without creating a very tight squeeze.
How wide should a two car garage door be?
For a two car garage, the common garage door size is 16′ wide, though they can range from 14′ to 18′. This width provides adequate garage space for two vehicles parked side by side with room to open doors.
What's the difference between one double door versus two single doors for a two car garage?
One double door offers a cleaner look and requires less wall space, while two single garage doors provide better insulation and separate access in case one door malfunctions.
What are typical residential garage door sizes?
Standard residential garage door sizes include 9’×7′ for single cars, 16’×7′ for two cars, and custom dimensions for specialty applications. Door height may increase to 8′ for larger vehicles.
How big should a three car garage be?
A three car garage typically requires either multiple doors (one double door plus one single) or a custom-sized larger garage door, with total width ranging from 24′ to 30′ depending on vehicle sizes.
What garage type and size would fit five car garages?
Five car garages typically require multiple door configurations or custom oversized garage doors with total dimensions around 40-50′ wide, requiring substantial additional space on your property.
How do I measure for garage door dimensions?
Measure door width at three points (bottom, middle, top), height at three points (left, center, right), and consider additional space for hardware. Garage size measurements determine optimal door dimensions.
What's the minimum door width needed to avoid a very tight squeeze?
To avoid a very tight squeeze when opening car doors, single garage doors should be at least 9′ wide, providing about 6-12″ of clearance on each side of an average vehicle.
How tall do garage doors need to be for larger vehicles?
Standard door height is 7′, but for larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks, consider 8′ height. For recreational vehicles, specialized doors up to 12-14′ may be necessary.
How many vehicles can fit in different garage sizes?
A 9′ wide door accommodates one car garage needs, 16′ fits a two car arrangement, while 24-30′ width can handle three vehicles. Proper sizing prevents a very tight squeeze when opening car doors.
Are smaller doors better than one large door for multiple vehicles?
Multiple smaller doors offer better insulation and operational security (if one breaks, others still work) compared to one larger door, though they require additional space for frames and hardware.
