Up and Over Garage Door FAQs - Design

Everything you need to know about the design of Up and Over Garage Doors

What is the standard size up and over garage door?

Standard sizes for up-and-over garage doors typically come in widths of 7′ (2134mm) and 8′ (2438mm) for single garages, and 14′ (4267mm) and 16′ (4877mm) for double garages. These have a standard height of 7′ (2134mm). While these are the most common sizes, be sure to measure your specific garage opening to ensure a proper fit.

How much bigger should a garage door be than the opening?

Your garage door should be slightly smaller than the structural opening of the garage to allow for a proper fit and smooth operation. Allow for a few millimetres of clearance on all sides – for example, if the opening is 2250mm wide, you might order a door that is 2230mm wide to provide a 10mm margin on each side.

Can I replace a garage door myself?

While it’s possible to replace a garage door yourself, it’s generally recommended to hire a professional based on the complexity and potential dangers involved. Garage doors have numerous parts operating under high tension, and faulty installation can lead to damage or injury.

How much clearance for an up and over garage door?

Standard single-width doors typically need 100-240mm (about 4-9.5 inches) of headroom to accommodate the tracking system, while double-width doors or those with torsion spring systems might need more headroom, potentially up to 210mm (about 8.3 inches) or more.

How much room do you need for an overhead garage door?

For a standard overhead garage door, you usually need 10-12 inches of headroom for a torsion spring system, and 9-12 inches for an extension spring system. For a single skin steel shutter or door, you also need 175mm of space on each side. You will also need backroom, which is the space between the door and the back wall of the garage – at least the door height plus 18 inches for residential doors.

How to measure for an up and over garage door?

To measure for an up-and-over garage door, determine the opening’s width and height, and also the headroom and side room. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening and the height at the left, middle, and right. The smallest measurements are what you will use when ordering.

How to make an up and over garage door secure?

To make an up-and-over garage door more secure, add extra locks, reinforce the door and frame, and install security features like motion-activated lights and cameras. A Garage Defender or similar ground-mounted lock can also prevent the door from being forced open.