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How Wide is a Double Garage Door? Let’s Settle This Once and For All
Hey there, garage gurus! If you’ve ever stared at your driveway and wondered, “Is my double garage door actually wide enough for… well, life?” you’re in the right place. Whether you’re daydreaming about parking two SUVs side by side, building a backyard workshop, or just tired of playing Tetris with your trash bins, understanding double garage door widths is key. And hey, if you’re in Calgary, Okotoks, or Strathmore, we at Gloss Garage Doors have seen it all—from epic “oops, that truck won’t fit” moments to genius storage hacks. Let’s break it down like a pro (but with fewer power tools and more bad jokes).
The Basics: What’s the Standard Double Garage Door Size?
Let’s start with the golden question: How wide is a standard double garage door? Spoiler: It’s not just about fitting two cars. Most double doors range between 16 to 18 feet wide and 7 to 8 feet tall. But here’s the kicker: that “standard” isn’t one-size-fits-all.
- 16×7 feet: Classic choice for two compact cars or one oversized pickup (if you’re not hoarding holiday decorations like a squirrel).
- 18×8 feet: The MVP for trucks, RVs, or anyone who thinks their garage doubles as a gym/storage unit/man cave.
FYI: Older homes might have narrower doors (think 14 feet), which explains why your neighbor’s vintage Mustang lives on the driveway. If you’re dealing with a tight squeeze, garage door replacement might be worth considering—especially if your current setup feels like a clown car convention.
Why Size Matters: Avoiding “Oops, I Didn’t Measure That” Moments
Ever tried backing a trailer into a garage that’s two inches too narrow? Yeah, it’s about as fun as stepping on a Lego. Here’s why getting the width right is non-negotiable:
- Daily Convenience: A properly sized door means no more side mirrors folded in like origami.
- Resale Value: Buyers love garages that fit modern vehicles (and their ego-sized trucks).
- Safety: Cramped spaces increase dings, scratches, and very creative swear words.
Pro Tip: If your door’s looking worse for wear—sagging tracks, noisy garage door, or a broken spring—it might be time to call a garage door contractor near me (hint: we’re in Calgary, Okotoks, and Strathmore).
Customization: Because Your Jet Ski Deserves a Palace
Not all garages are created equal. Maybe you’ve got a vintage car collection or a side hustle building kayaks. Custom widths (up to 24 feet!) let you go big or go home. Here’s what to consider:
- Material: Steel doors handle Alberta winters better than your average snow shovel.
- Insulation: Unless you enjoy chipping ice off your car at 6 a.m.
- Style: Raised panels? Carriage house? Go wild—it’s your garage’s red carpet moment.
Fun Story: Last winter, a client in Okotoks asked us to install an 18-foot door for his snowplow business. The catch? He’d already bought the plow. Let’s just say we got creative with the garage door track alignment.
Cost & Price: What’s the Damage?
Let’s talk numbers. A standard automatic garage door installation in Calgary typically runs between $1,200 to $3,500, depending on size, materials, and whether you want Wi-Fi controls (because who doesn’t love opening doors from the couch?).
| Service | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Double Garage Door Replacement | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Garage Door Torsion Spring Replacement | $200 – $400 |
| Commercial Garage Door Repair | $300 – $1,000+ |
| Automatic Garage Door Opener Installation | $500 – $1,200 |
PSA: Skipping maintenance to save cash? Big mistake. A broken spring or worn-out cables can lead to pricier repairs (or a door that greets your car like a WWE wrestler).
Maintenance 101: Keep Your Door from Sounding Like a Dying Robot
A noisy garage door isn’t just annoying—it’s a cry for help. Here’s how to keep things smooth:
- Lubricate Tracks & Rollers: Annually. No excuses.
- Check Cables & Springs: Frayed cables? Call for garage door cable repair ASAP.
- Test Safety Features: Because “my door ate my bike” isn’t a great story.
True Confession: We once met a Calgarian who ignored a squeaky door for two years. By the time they called us, the garage door track repair cost triple. Don’t be that person.
4 Burning Questions About Double Garage Doors (Answered)
Q: Can I widen my existing garage door?
A: Maybe! It depends on your structure. We’ve done everything from simple garage door spring adjustment to full rebuilds. Book a consultation—we’ll tell you straight.
Q: How long does installation take?
A: Most residential jobs wrap up in 4–6 hours. Commercial projects? Give us a day or two.
Q: Why is my door suddenly slow?
A: Could be worn springs, misaligned tracks, or an opener on its last legs. Let’s diagnose it before it quits mid-blizzard.
Q: Should I DIY garage door repairs?
A: IMO, unless you’re trained, leave springs and cables to pros. One wrong move and… well, let’s just say YouTube won’t pay your ER bill.
Final Thoughts: Your Garage Door, Your Rules
At Gloss Garage Doors, we’ve seen it all—from historic homes in Strathmore needing garage door torsion spring replacement to techy folks in Calgary craving smart openers. Whether you’re itching for a garage door replacement or just need a garage door opener repair, we’ve got your back.
So, next time you’re eyeballing that double door, ask yourself: Does this spark joy? (Thanks, Marie Kondo). If not, maybe it’s time for an upgrade. And hey, if you’re local, give us a shout. We’ll bring the tools, the expertise, and maybe a terrible dad joke or two. 😉
Ready to ditch the garage drama? Contact Gloss Garage Doors today—because life’s too short for doors that don’t work.
