Choosing the right size of the garage door is an important decision when you are building or renovating your home. The size of the garage door depends on the size of the garage, the number of vehicles you own, and the clearance you need.

Two popular sizes of garage doors are 16 feet and 18 feet.  We will take a closer look at the 16 vs 18 foot garage door debate, and help you determine which size is right for your needs.

16 Foot Garage Door vs. 18 Foot Garage Door

When it comes to the size of a garage door, you have two options: 16 feet and 18 feet. Both sizes are commonly used and have their own advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at each size to help you make an informed decision.

16 Foot Garage Door

A 16 foot garage door is a popular choice for homeowners who have a single-car garage or a double-car garage with a smaller width. The size of the garage door is sufficient for most vehicles, and it can also provide a wider entrance if you need to bring in larger items like a lawnmower or a bicycle.

One of the advantages of a 16 foot garage door is its lower cost. Since it is smaller in size, it requires less material to manufacture and install, which can save you money. Additionally, a 16 foot garage door is easier to install than an 18 foot garage door, which can also lower the cost of installation.

However, a 16 foot garage door may not be suitable for larger vehicles like trucks, vans, or SUVs. If you own a larger vehicle or plan to buy one in the future, you may need to consider an 18 foot garage door instead.

18 Foot Garage Door

An 18 foot garage door is a popular choice for homeowners who have a double-car garage with a larger width or who need extra clearance for larger vehicles or equipment. The size of the garage door can provide ample space for larger vehicles like trucks, vans, or SUVs, and it can also provide extra clearance if you need to store tall equipment like a boat or an RV.

One of the advantages of an 18 foot garage door is its versatility. It can accommodate a wide range of vehicles and equipment, which can be convenient if you own multiple vehicles or equipment that require different clearance heights.

However, an 18 foot garage door may not be suitable for homeowners who have a smaller garage or who do not need extra clearance. It is also more expensive than a 16 foot garage door, both in terms of manufacturing and installation costs.

Factors to Consider

Choosing the right size for your garage door involves taking into account various factors. Here are some factors to consider when deciding between a 16-foot garage door and an 18-foot garage door:

What is the size of your garage?

Measuring your garage: The first step in determining the size of your garage door is to measure the width and height of your garage opening. A standard garage door opening is usually 8 feet high, but the width can vary.

What is the purpose of your garage

• Parking: If you plan to park your car in the garage, you need to consider the size of your vehicle. Larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, or vans may require a wider or taller garage door.
• Storage: If you plan to use your garage for storage, you need to consider the amount of space you need. An 18-foot garage door provides more space for storage than a 16-foot garage door.
• Workshop: If you plan to use your garage as a workshop, you need to consider the size of the equipment you plan to use. Larger equipment may require a larger garage door.

What is your budget

Cost of garage doors

The cost of a garage door varies depending on the size, material, and style. An 18-foot garage door is typically more expensive than a 16-foot garage door.

Cost of installation

The cost of installation depends on the complexity of the job, the size of the garage door, and the contractor you hire. Installing an 18-foot garage door may cost more than installing a 16-foot garage door.

What is the standard size for a garage door?

The standard size for a garage door is 8 feet high and 9-10 feet wide. However, the width can vary depending on the size of the vehicle you plan to park in your garage.

Can I install a larger garage door than the standard size?

Yes, you can install a larger garage door than the standard size. However, you need to make sure that your garage can accommodate the larger size.

How much does a 16-foot garage door cost?

The cost of a 16-foot garage door can range from $500 to $2,500, depending on the material and style.

How much does an 18-foot garage door cost?

The cost of an 18-foot garage door can range from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the material and style.

How long does it take to install a garage door?

The installation of a garage door can take anywhere from 4-6 hours, depending on the complexity of the job and the size of the garage door.

Conclusion

Choosing the right size of garage door depends on your needs and budget. A 16 foot garage door is a good choice for homeowners who have a smaller garage or who do not need extra clearance, while an 18 foot garage door is a better choice for those who have a larger garage or need extra clearance for larger vehicles or equipment. Additionally, it’s important to consider the cost of manufacturing and installation when choosing the size of your garage door.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose a 16 foot garage door or an 18 foot garage door depends on your individual needs and preferences. By considering the advantages and disadvantages of each size, you can make an informed decision that meets your requirements and budget.