How To Measure Garage Door

How to Measure Garage Door

When replacing an existing garage door or installing a new one, accurate measurement is crucial. Incorrect measurements can lead to the door not fitting properly, causing gaps and potential security issues. Follow these steps to ensure you obtain accurate measurements for your garage door.

Materials Required:

Measuring tape
Step stool or ladder (optional)
Pen or pencil
Notebook

Measuring an Existing Garage Door:

If you're replacing an existing door, measuring is relatively straightforward:

Measure the width of the door: Extend the measuring tape from one side of the frame to the other, including the weatherstripping.
Measure the height of the door: Measure from the top of the door frame to the bottom of the door, including the bottom weatherstripping.

Measuring for a New Garage Door:

If you're installing a new door, you'll need to measure the rough opening:

Measure the width of the opening: Extend the measuring tape across the opening, 2 inches above the floor. Deduct 2 inches from this measurement.
Measure the height of the opening: Measure from 2 inches above the floor to 2 inches below the header (top of the opening). Deduct 4 inches from this measurement.

Additional Tips:

Use a step stool or ladder for accurate measurements, especially for tall openings.
Record your measurements in a notebook for easy reference.
Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.
If you're unsure about the measurements, seek the assistance of a professional installer.

Headroom and Side Room Requirements:

In addition to the door measurements, consider the following space requirements:

Headroom: Ensure you have at least 12 inches of clearance between the top of the door and the header.
Side room: Allow for 6 inches of space on each side of the door for smooth operation.

Conclusion:

Taking accurate garage door measurements is essential for proper installation and functionality. By following these steps and considering additional space requirements, you can ensure that your garage door fits perfectly and operates seamlessly.