Thinking about replacing your garage door? The first question that comes up is size. Too small, and your SUV won’t fit. Too big, and you’ll spend more than needed. Getting this measurement right is critical—not only for functionality but also for the long-term value and safety of your home. At Express Garage Doors LLC, we’ve helped countless Virginia homeowners choose the perfect fit, and this guide will break everything down so you don’t have to second-guess.
So, What’s the Average Garage Door Height?
instead of “The standard garage door height is usually 7 feet,” say “Most garage doors you see in American homes are 7 feet tall. That’s the size builders stick with because it fits most cars.
That said, 8-foot garage doors are commonly used, especially for homeowners who drive larger SUVs, pickup trucks, or who want added clearance for roof racks.
If you’re asking, “how tall is the average door?” The simple answer is: 7 ft (standard), 8 ft.
Average Garage Door Sizes for Single and Double Doors
Here’s what you’ll usually find:
The standard single car garage size is:
- Single garage doors: 8 to 9 feet wide, 7 feet tall
- Double garage doors: 16 feet wide, 7 feet tall
This works well for one vehicle with a little extra space for storage.
RV and Oversized Garage Doors
If you own a recreational vehicle or oversized truck, you’ll need special clearance:
- Width: 10 to 12 feet
- Height: 12 to 14 feet
These RV garage door sizes are not “standard” but are widely offered as custom solutions.
A Good Garage Door Size Chart
Here’s a simplified chart homeowners can use:
| Garage Type | Standard Width | Standard Height | Notes |
| Single Car | 8–9 ft | 7–8 ft | Fits sedans, crossovers, small SUVs |
| Double Car | 16 ft | 7–8 ft | Fits two standard vehicles |
| RV / Oversized | 10–12 ft | 12–14 ft | Required for RVs, lifted trucks |
| Custom Sizes | Varies | Varies | Tailored to unique property needs |
Recommended Garage Door Sizes by Vehicle Type
Your vehicle is the first factor to consider when determining the right garage door dimensions standard.
- Sedans & small SUVs → 7 ft high x 8–9 ft wide is sufficient.
- Large SUVs & trucks → 8 ft high is safer, especially if you carry roof cargo.
- RVs or tall vans → 12–14 ft high openings are required.
Think ahead: if you’re planning to upgrade your vehicle in the future, choosing the right garage door height standard now can save you from costly modifications later.
How To Frame a Standard Garage Doors Rough Opening
A common mistake homeowners make is forgetting about the rough opening for garage doors. This refers to the framed space in the wall where the garage door will be installed.
- For a 7 ft door, the rough opening should be about 7 ft 1 in.
- For an 8 ft door, the rough opening should be about 8 ft 1 in.
Always allow a little extra room for proper installation, clearance, sealing etc.
Garage Door Sizes for Unique Needs Standard, Custom, and How to Measure
Most homes stick with the standard, store-bought garage doors. But here’s the thing—custom sizes are becoming more and more common. Why? Because homeowners today don’t just want a door that works. They want one that fits their lifestyle.
Think about it: maybe you’ve got a lifted truck, a workshop that needs extra clearance, or a carriage-style home with unique charm. A custom-width garage door lets you break free from the usual 8-, 9-, or 16-foot widths and get exactly what your space needs.
Choosing Between Height Options (8 foot or a 7 foot high shed)
- 7 ft (standard): Affordable, reliable, fits most homes.
- 8 ft: Adds extra clearance for trucks, SUVs, and roof racks.
- Oversized (10–14 ft): Essential for RVs, commercial vehicles, or future-proofing.
If your property allows it, many Virginia homeowners opt for 8 ft garage doors to avoid clearance issues later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Right Garage Door Size
- Forgetting about future vehicles. A door that fits your sedan today might not clear your next SUV or truck.
- Measuring wrong. Miss the ceiling height or rough opening, and the whole install turns into a headache.
- Ignoring storage space. Bikes, roof racks, or a trailer need extra clearance you’ll regret not planning for.
- Skipping expert help. One sizing mistake in DIY mode can mean thousands in costly fixes
Do garage doors increase home value?
First impressions matter. A garage door that’s too small or doesn’t fit right can throw off the whole look of your home. Get the size right, and it adds balance, symmetry, and even resale value.
Here in Virginia, garages often pull double duty as storage or workshops. The right measurements make your space more practical, not just in summer or winter, but all year long
The Benefit of a Professional Installation
Getting the right size is only half the battle. If the installation is off, the whole door suffers. A crooked track, uneven frame, or panels cut to the wrong dimensions can waste your money fast.
That’s why so many homeowners in Woodbridge, Dale City, and nearby Virginia communities call Express Garage Doors LLC. We don’t only put in the door. We look at your property, your vehicles, and how you’ll use the space years down the road. That way, your investment makes sense long-term.
Express Garage Doors LLC – Helping Virginia Homeowners Choose the Right Fit
At Express Garage Doors LLC, we specialize in helping Virginia families choose the right standard garage door height and size. Whether you need a standard single car garage size, a double garage door width, or a fully custom garage door size, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
We also handle:
- Repairs and tune-ups (springs, rollers, tracks)
- Safety inspections
- Insulation upgrades for all seasons
- Custom design options
If you’re in Virginia and considering a new garage door, let us be your partner. A correctly sized garage door isn’t just convenience—it’s peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Knowing the standard garage door height is just the first step. The real goal is finding a door that not only fits your vehicles but also complements your home’s style—without running into expensive mistakes. That’s where local experts like Express Garage Doors LLC come in. We make sure your door is measured, fitted, and installed the right way so it lasts for years.