How Do You Measure Garage Doors

How Do You Measure Garage Doors?

Measuring garage doors accurately is essential for ensuring a perfect fit and optimal functionality. Whether you're replacing an old door or installing a new one, precise measurements are crucial. Here's a detailed guide on how to measure garage doors:

1. Determine the Type of Garage Door:

The first step is to identify the type of garage door you have or plan to install. Common door types include:

Sectional doors: Made up of multiple panels that fold upwards when opened.
Roll-up doors: Consist of a single sheet of material that rolls up into a drum at the top.
Tilt-up canopy doors: Swing upwards and outward from the bottom to open.

2. Measure the Width:

Measure the clear opening width from inside the garage, between the side jambs. Do not include the jambs or any trim in your measurement. Measure at multiple points and take the widest measurement.

3. Measure the Height:

Measure the clear opening height from the top of the finished floor to the bottom of the header. Again, exclude any trim or molding. Take multiple measurements and record the tallest measurement.

4. Measure the Header:

The header is the horizontal beam above the garage door opening. Measure its height from the top of the finished floor to the bottom of the header. This measurement is not typically used for door selection but can be helpful for planning purposes.

5. Measure the Side Jambs:

Measure the width of the vertical side jambs, from the inside face of the jamb to the inside face of the other jamb. This measurement is important for determining the width of the door frame.

6. Measure the Backroom:

For sectional doors, measure the depth of the garage from the inside face of the back wall to the inside face of the front jambs. This measurement ensures that the door panels have enough room to fully retract when opened.

7. Measure the Vertical Clearance:

Measure the vertical clearance above the garage door opening, from the top of the header to the ceiling or any obstructions. This measurement is important for determining the minimum door height.

8. Measure the Lateral Clearance:

For side-mounted doors, measure the lateral clearance on both sides of the garage door opening, from the side jambs to any obstructions. This measurement ensures that the door can open and close without hitting any objects.

Tips:

Use a tape measure or laser measurer for accurate measurements.
Measure in inches and convert to feet and inches for most accurate results.
If you encounter any unevenness or obstacles, note them and adjust your measurements accordingly.
Consider hiring a professional for precise measurements, especially for complex or large garage doors.