How to Measure a New Garage Door for Your Home - A Step-by-Step Guide
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person measuring a garage door with a tape measure
Replacing your old garage door with a new one can significantly improve your home's curb appeal and functionality. However, before you start shopping for a new door, it's essential to take accurate measurements of your existing garage door opening. This will ensure that you purchase a door that fits perfectly and operates smoothly.
Tools You'll Need
Tape measure
Ladder (if needed)
Pen and paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Measure the Width
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measuring the width of a garage door opening
Start by measuring the width of your garage door opening. This is the distance between the inside edges of the door jambs (the vertical boards that frame the opening).
Take the measurement at the widest point of the opening, usually near the top.
Record the measurement in feet and inches.
Measure the Height
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measuring the height of a garage door opening
Next, measure the height of your garage door opening. This is the distance between the floor and the top of the opening.
Take the measurement at the highest point of the opening, usually near the center.
Record the measurement in feet and inches.
Measure the Headroom
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measuring the headroom of a garage door opening
Headroom is the distance between the top of the garage door opening and the ceiling or any obstruction above it (such as a light fixture or a beam).
Measure the headroom at the lowest point, as this will determine the minimum clearance required for the garage door opener.
Record the measurement in inches.
Measure the Sideroom
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measuring the sideroom of a garage door opening
Sideroom is the distance between the edges of the garage door opening and the walls on either side.
Measure the sideroom on both sides of the opening.
Record the measurements in inches.
Measure the Backroom
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measuring the backroom of a garage door opening
Backroom is the distance from the garage door opening to the back wall of the garage or any obstruction behind it (such as a workbench or a storage shelf).
Measure the backroom at the closest point, as this will determine the minimum space required for the garage door to operate without hitting anything.
Record the measurement in feet and inches.
Additional Tips
Take multiple measurements at different points to ensure accuracy.
Note any obstructions or irregularities in the opening that might affect the installation of the new door.
If you're unsure about any of the measurements, it's always best to consult a professional garage door installer.
Resources
Garage Door Measuring Guide (Home Depot): https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/garage-door-measurement-guide/9ba683603be9491495a8b00000000000
Garage Door Size Chart (Clopay): https://www.clopaydoor.com/residential/garage-door-sizes
By following these instructions and taking accurate measurements, you can ensure that you purchase a new garage door that fits perfectly and enhances the beauty and functionality of your home.