Ordering a replacement garage door starts with accurate measurements. While we always recommend professional verification, taking initial measurements helps you understand your options and budget. This simple guide shows you how to measure the five key dimensions needed for a perfect fit. All you need is a tape measure.
Step-by-Step Measuring Guide
Follow these five steps to measure your garage door rough opening and the surrounding space. Make all measurements in feet and inches.
1. Measure the Width: Measure the width of the finished door opening from the inside of the door jamb on the left to the inside of the jamb on the right. This is your widest point.
2. Measure the Height: Measure the height of the opening from the finished floor to the top of the finished opening.
3. Measure the Side Room: Side room is the space on the left and right sides of the opening. Measure from the edge of the door opening to the nearest obstruction (like a wall or shelf). You typically need at least 3-3/4 inches on each side for the vertical track.
4. Measure the Headroom: Garage door headroom is the space from the top of the door opening to the ceiling or the lowest obstruction above it (like a rafter or pipe). Standard systems require 10-12 inches of headroom, but special low-headroom hardware is available if you have less.
5. Measure the Backroom: This is the total unobstructed depth into your garage. Measure from the garage door opening toward the back of the garage. You'll need the door height plus about 18 inches for the door to operate correctly with an opener.
Pro Tips for Accurate Measuring
• Take each measurement twice to ensure accuracy.
• For arched openings, measure the height at the lowest point (the "shoulders") and the highest point of the arch.
• Note the location of any pipes, ducts, or support beams that could obstruct the door's tracks or opener.
• Always measure the finished opening, not the old door itself.
Measuring is a great first step, but a perfect installation depends on exact figures. DoorLux offers professional measurement services to guarantee your new door fits and functions flawlessly.
Contact DoorLux today for a free quote and to schedule a professional site check!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is garage door headroom and why is it important?
Garage door headroom is the clear space between the top of the door opening and the ceiling. It's crucial because it provides the necessary room for the door's springs, track curve, and top section as it opens. Insufficient headroom requires special low-headroom track hardware.
2. How much side room do I need for a garage door?
For a standard installation, you typically need at least 3-3/4 inches of side room on both sides of the garage door opening. This space is required to mount the vertical track system that the door's rollers move in.
3. Can I just measure my old garage door for a replacement?
No, you should always measure the garage door rough opening itself, not the old door panel. Over time, frames can settle and old doors may not reflect the true dimensions of the opening, so measuring the opening ensures the new door will be sized correctly for a proper seal.
