Whether you’re building a new garage or renovating an old one, getting the dimensions right is essential. Picking the right size garage is influenced by a number of things, like the size of your vehicle, how much storage space you need, and your budget.
This guide will walk you through the standard garage dimensions, including single-car, two-car, three-car, and even four-car garages. We’ll also cover garage door dimensions and other things to consider when planning your perfect garage.
Standard Garage Sizes: An Overview
Garages come in a variety of sizes, but here’s a rundown of standard dimensions:
Single-Car Garage Dimensions
A single-car garage usually runs from 10 x 20 feet to 12 x 22 feet. The smallest you’d probably want to go is 10 x 20 feet, while 12 x 20 feet is a good size for most vehicles.
That’ll give you between 200 and 264 square feet, which is enough room for one vehicle and a little bit of storage. If you have a larger vehicle or want to store a lot of stuff in your garage, you’ll want to go with a larger size.
Two-Car Garage Dimensions
Two-car garages typically range from 20 x 20 feet to 24 x 24 feet. Common sizes include 20 x 20 feet (400 sq ft), 20 x 22 feet (440 sq ft), 22 x 22 feet (484 sq ft), and 24 x 24 feet (576 sq ft).
A two-car garage gives you room for two vehicles and some extra storage. Keep in mind that the width and depth of the garage can affect how easy it is to use.
Beyond the Standard: Two-and-a-Half and Three-Car Garages
If you need more space, you might consider a two-and-a-half-car garage, which gives you extra width for storage or a workspace.
Three-car garages are usually 30-36 feet wide and 20-30 feet deep. This gives you plenty of room for vehicles, storage, and even a workshop area. An ideal size for a three-car garage is often considered to be 36×24.
Garage Door Dimensions: What to Consider
When you’re planning a garage, you’ll need to think about the garage door dimensions. Getting the measurements right is essential for a proper fit.
The standard size for a single-car garage door is 9 feet wide by 7 feet high. A two-car garage door is usually 16 feet wide by 7 feet high. But these measurements may differ depending on the overall garage size and style.
You should also consider the “headroom” requirements for different types of doors, such as sectional or roll-up doors. Where you place the door can also affect the cost; moving the door even a foot or two can sometimes save money.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Garage Size
Figuring out the right dimensions for your garage can be a head-scratcher. Here are a few factors to think about as you plan.
Number and Size of Vehicles
First, measure your vehicles, including their height and width. Don’t forget to think about potential future vehicle purchases, too. Will you be upsizing to a truck or SUV someday? Make sure you’ll still have room to park it.
As you plan, consider the space you’ll need to open your car doors and maneuver around inside the garage. You’ll want enough space to move comfortably around your vehicles.
Storage Needs
How much storage space will you need for tools, equipment, and other items? Think about vertical storage solutions to get the most out of the available space. Pegboards, shelves, and ceiling racks can all help.
Remember to plan for seasonal storage needs, too. Where will you put your holiday decorations or outdoor furniture during the off-season? A larger garage may be the answer.
Additional Uses
Could your garage pull double duty as a workshop, gym, or hobby area? What about a home office? Think about the space requirements for different activities, and factor in things like workbenches, shelving, or specialized equipment. Garages are flexible spaces that can be used for a variety of purposes.
Attached vs. Detached Garages
Attached garages offer convenience and direct access to the house, which is great in bad weather. On the other hand, detached garages provide more privacy and can be more affordable to build. They also cut down on noise and may increase security.
Budget Considerations
It’s important to balance your desired garage size with your budget. Think about cost-effective design options and materials. Prioritize your needs and think about whether you might want to expand the garage in the future. The size of your garage will directly affect your budget and the materials you choose.
Garage size and UK standards
Garage sizes are different in the UK. A standard single-car garage is around 8 x 16 feet, while a double-car garage is typically 16 x 16 feet. This is smaller than what you often see in the US.
There are a few reasons for this difference. Cars in the UK tend to be smaller. Building regulations are also different. These smaller sizes impact how people use their garages. They might be used more for storage than for actually parking a car. You also have to think carefully about the layout to make the most of the space.
FAQs About Garage Dimensions
- What is the minimum size for a car garage?
- At least 10 x 20 feet.
- Can 2 cars fit in a 16-foot garage?
- Probably not. A 16-foot garage is usually too narrow to park two cars comfortably.
- What is the standard height for a garage?
- Garages are usually 8 feet tall.
- What are average garage sizes and dimensions?
- The average garage size can be anywhere from 200 square feet for a one-car garage to 864 square feet for an oversized three-car garage.
Putting It All Together
The right garage dimensions depend on your unique needs. When choosing the size of your new garage, be sure to consider the size of your vehicles, how much storage space you need, whether you want to use the garage for hobbies or projects, and what you can afford.
It’s also worth measuring your cars, trucks, lawnmowers, bikes, and other items you want to store in the garage before you make a decision. A well-planned garage is an investment that will meet your needs today and well into the future.