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Are you thinking about installing a new garage door? Before you dive in, there is one important step you cannot skip—taking accurate garage door measurements. That might sound simple, but a lot can go wrong if you are not careful. Have you ever wondered why your old door does not quite fit the way it should? Or why do some installations seem to take forever? Either way, getting the right measures is the first step. Hence, it will be easy if you follow this guide from Titan Garage Doors Des Moines on how to measure your garage door. So, are you ready to begin? Join us as we dive in.
Gather All Tools Needed for Accurate Garage Door Measurements
Before you start taking garage door measurements, make sure you have the right tools. So, what do you need?
- Measuring Tape
- Level
- Ladder
- Pencil and Notepad
Thus, if you want to get accurate readings for your garage door, these tools will make the job easy.
How Wide Is the Garage Opening?
First, find out how wide your garage door opening is. It is easy. Just grab a tape measure and measure the distance from one side of the opening to the other. Make sure you are measuring at the widest point—do not include any trim or frames.
Wondering why this is important? First of all, getting the right garage door measurements ensures that your new door fits perfectly without gaps or issues. You will want to check both the top and bottom of the opening. Why? Sometimes, the width can be a little different at the top versus the bottom. Double-checking helps avoid surprises when it is time for a garage door installation. Indeed, taking this extra step ensures everything fits like a glove.
How to Measure Side Room for Your Garage Door
Next, let us talk about measuring the side room. It is the space between the edge of the garage door opening and the wall. Why is this important? The side room allows space for the tracks and hardware that help your garage door open and close smoothly. Start by measuring from the edge of the garage door opening to the closest wall on each side. You will need at least 3.5–4 inches of space for standard tracks. Got more space? Great. But if your side room is tight, you may need special hardware or adjustments.
Does it seem like a simple measurement? It is, but do not overlook it. Not having enough side room can cause installation issues down the road. Always check both sides, just in case one is tighter than the other.
Assessing Headroom: Guaranteeing Clearance for Your Garage
Now, what exactly is headroom? It is the space between the top of your garage door opening and the ceiling or any other obstruction, like a light fixture or beam. For most garage doors, you need at least 10 to 12 inches of headroom. This space allows room for the door’s spring system and tracks, ensuring everything works smoothly. So, if you plan to install an automatic opener, you will need a bit more space.
Before you measure, grab a ladder and measuring tape. Start at the top of the garage door opening and measure straight up to the ceiling or the lowest object hanging above the door. Make sure there are no obstacles that could get in the way.
How to Measure Backroom Space for Your Garage Door
Meanwhile, the backroom is the space between the garage door opening and the back wall of your garage. It is easy to forget this step, but it is very important for a smooth installation.
When your garage door opens, it rolls up and back along the ceiling. If you do not have enough backroom, the door will not open all the way. That can cause some serious headaches. You will need enough space to accommodate the full height of your door, plus about 18 inches more. So, if you have an 8-foot-tall door, your backroom should be at least 9.5 feet.
How do you measure it? Get a tape measure and measure from where the garage door opens to the back wall of your garage. Make sure to take note of any shelves or obstacles that might get in the way. Are you uncertain about your available space? Double-check your garage door measurements or reach out to a professional to ensure everything fits perfectly.
FAQs: Garage Door Measurements
1. What are the common mistakes to avoid when taking garage door measurements?
Make sure to avoid not measuring the side or headroom correctly. Also, check for obstructions like pipes or beams that could affect the fit. Lastly, always use a proper measuring tape instead of guessing with other items.
2. What if the garage ceiling is lower than the standard height?
If your garage ceiling is lower than standard height, you can still install a garage door. Measure the headroom and choose a style that requires less space, like a sectional door. Consider a low-profile garage door opener to maximize the available space.
3. Can you install a garage door if there is not enough side room?
While you can try, it is not ideal. Insufficient side room can make installation difficult and affect the door’s operation. It is best to consult with a garage door professional to explore your options.
4. Can you measure for a custom garage door?
Yes! Just follow the same steps for standard doors, but be extra careful. Custom garage doors often require more precise measurements.
5. When should I call a professional for help with garage door measurements?
Consider calling a professional if you have an uneven floor, a complex garage layout, or a custom garage door size. Experts like Titan Garage Doors Des Moines can ensure your measurements are accurate and help avoid installation headaches.
Garage Door Installation Near Me
Need accurate garage door measurements for your new installation? At Titan Garage Doors Des Moines, we take the hassle out of measuring. Our team can provide you with exact measurements to ensure a smooth garage door installation.
Why stress over getting it right when we can help? Plus, with our easy payment plans, you can enjoy top-notch garage door services in Des Moines without breaking the bank. Contact us today, and let us get started on your garage door project.
