Understanding Headroom Requirements For A Residential Garage Door?

Now one of the things you need to consider when thinking about getting a new garage door or perhaps installing a new opener is headroom. You always want to make sure that there is more than enough headroom for the type of garage door system that you have in mind. But the question we get asked a lot is what are the requirements for a residential garage door?

Generally speaking for a standard garage door that uses an electric opener you will want at least 15-inches of overhead clearance. Out of that 15 inches, 12 inches is reserved for the torsion spring and the accompanying door, with three inches generally required for the opener equipment. However, we always run into clients who don’t have that 12-15 inches of space, so what do we suggest then? Do you really need to give up your dream garage door or that brand new opener? Well, not really but you’ll have to consider a couple of other options. We discuss some of the best options at your disposal below.

Using Low Headroom Track Systems

Now, this is perhaps the most commonsense solution for most homes where there isn’t enough headroom for a regular garage door. The low headroom track garage door system is specially designed for garages where there is little headroom. The system allows for homeowners to install their garage door and the opener even if they just have 9 inches of headroom.

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The Frame Down Opening

These doors are available in increments of 3 inches and at no extra charge. That means using these you can lower or raise the garage door opening to a height that you want. It also happens to be one of the most cost-effective ways of installing a residential garage door with little headroom.

Jackshaft Garage Door Openers

If all you want is to save a couple of inches of space, then this type of garage door opener will work best. Normally if you want to save a few inches or you have a beam somewhere in the middle of the garage, this type of garage door opener works perfectly. The good thing about using a jack shaft garage door opener is that it is as effective as any standard garage door opener, but they work from the side instead of the top which eliminates the need for having extra headroom. Plus the center of the garage door will look spacious and clean. That’s why this is an option we often recommend for small or oddly shaped garages.

Contact a Team of Experts to Help You Find the Right Residential Garage Door

Whenever you’re in doubt, it is always a good idea to consult with experts like us. We know that buying a residential garage door can be challenging especially if you need it to meet special needs. The good news is that we have the experience to help you deal with any problem.