Choosing Your RV Garage Door: Sizing, Types, & Installation

Are you tired of struggling to fit your RV garage door? Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your RV just wouldn’t fit inside the garage? It’s a common problem that can be frustrating and inconvenient.

This blog post will help you find the perfect RV garage door size. We’ll discuss different RV types and their corresponding garage door sizes. You’ll also learn about factors to consider when choosing a garage door, such as headroom and clearance. By the end of this post, you’ll be well-equipped to select the right garage door for your RV and enjoy hassle-free parking.

Overview Of RV Garage Door Sizes

When planning to build or modify a garage for your RV, it’s essential to understand that RV garage door dimensions must accommodate the specific type of RV you own. Different types of RVs come in varying sizes, and their widths, heights, and lengths will impact the size of the garage door for your RV. To avoid damaging your vehicle or struggling with inadequate space, selecting the right RV garage door size is crucial.

RVs come in a wide range of models, from Class A motorhomes to travel trailers. Each type has its own size specifications, which will influence the dimensions of the garage door height and width needed.

Here’s a quick breakdown of common RV types and their dimensions:

• Class A Motorhome: These are the largest RVs on the market, offering luxurious space for extended travel. Class A motorhomes range in width from 10 to 16 feet, have a height between 12 to 14 feet and can be 30 to 45 feet long. If you own one of these, you’ll need a larger garage door height for your RV to ensure a proper fit.
• Class B Motorhome: These are smaller, van-style RVs. While compact, they still provide all essential amenities for travel. A Class B motorhome typically measures 8 to 9 feet in width, 8 to 9 feet in height, and spans 17 to 24 feet in length. RV garage doors for this type will need to be wide and tall enough for easy entry and exit.
• Class C Motorhome: This type is larger than Class B but smaller than Class A. Class C motorhomes are often built on truck chassis, making them easier to maneuver. They generally measure 9 to 12 feet in width, 10 to 12 feet in height, and can be 20 to 33 feet long.
• Travel Trailers: These trailers vary in size, making them a flexible choice for different needs. Travel trailers can be anywhere from 8 to 12 feet in width, with a height of 8 to 9 feet, and a length that ranges from 10 to 40 feet. When choosing garage doors for travel trailers, you should factor in both the height and length of the trailer.
• Fifth-Wheel Trailers: These trailers offer more living space and require a truck for towing. A fifth-wheel trailer measures between 8 to 12 feet in width, 12 to 13 feet in height, and can range from 20 to 40 feet in length. You’ll need a taller RV garage door for these trailers.
• Toy Haulers: These RVs come with additional storage for motorcycles, ATVs, or other toys. Toy haulers are typically 7 to 10 feet wide and 6.5 to 7.5 feet tall.
• Truck Campers: These compact RVs are designed to fit in the bed of a pickup truck. Truck campers are the most compact type of RV, measuring 5 to 8 feet wide and 6 to 8 feet tall.

Factors Influencing RV Garage Door Size

Several factors determine the appropriate RV garage door dimensions you’ll need for your vehicle:

• RV Width: The width of the RV, especially for larger models like the Class A motorhome or fifth-wheel trailers, will affect how wide the garage door needs to be. A wider RV will obviously require a larger door opening to avoid any damage when parking.
• RV Height: One of the most critical factors is the height of the RV garage door, which should accommodate the tallest parts of your vehicle, including any rooftop accessories like air conditioning units or satellite dishes.
• RV Length: While the length of the RV doesn’t directly impact the garage door height or width, it does determine the overall size of the garage needed to house the RV comfortably.
• Type Of RV: Each type of RV, such as a motorhome with a garage or a fifth-wheel trailer, will have different requirements for the garage door size. Understanding your RV’s type and size ensures you select the right RV garage door dimensions.

How To Measure RV Height?

Accurately measuring the height of your RV is key when selecting the right garage door for your RV. Even a slight mistake in measurements can lead to damage when entering or exiting the garage. Many RVs, especially Class A motorhomes and fifth-wheel trailers, have added accessories that can increase their overall height. Knowing the exact height will help ensure you choose the correct RV garage door height.

• Find A flat surface: Park your RV on a level surface to get the most accurate measurement. Uneven ground can affect your reading, especially for taller vehicles like Class A motorhomes.
• Use A reliable measuring tool: A long tape measure or laser measuring tool works best. You’ll need a tool that can measure at least 15 feet for larger RVs like fifth-wheel trailers.
• Measure From The ground To The highest point: Start at the ground next to one of the tires and measure up to the highest point on the RV. Be sure to include any rooftop accessories such as air conditioning units, RV antennas, or satellite dishes, as they contribute to the overall height. This is important for determining the exact height of the RV garage door.
• Check Both Sides: Some RVs have uneven accessories or roof structures. Measure the height on both sides of the RV to ensure there are no variations that could affect the clearance when entering the garage.
• Add Extra Clearance: Once you have the height measurement, add at least 6–12 inches to allow for smooth entry into the garage. This buffer helps prevent any issues when parking, especially if your driveway has a slope.
• Consider Future Changes: If you plan to add more accessories to your RV, like a satellite dish or solar panels, make sure to account for this in your measurements. Future additions could affect the overall height, so it’s a good idea to build in extra clearance now to avoid complications later.

Types Of RV Garage Doors

Choosing the right garage door for your RV depends on more than just size. The type of door you select can impact how easy it is to operate, how much space it requires, and its overall durability. Different types of garage doors are designed to meet various needs, from space-saving solutions to heavy-duty options for larger RVs like Class A motorhomes.

Here are some of the most common types of garage doors for RVs, each offering different benefits based on your requirements.

Low Headroom Lift

Low headroom lift doors are ideal for garages with limited overhead space. They operate using special hardware that allows the door to open without needing as much clearance as traditional doors. This is a good option when space above the door is tight, and you still want a reliable, functional solution for your RV garage door dimensions.

Bifold Doors

Bifold doors fold in half when opened, taking up minimal space both inside and outside the garage. They are popular for motorhomes with garage setups where width and height clearance might be a concern. Bifold doors offer a compact and efficient design, making them easy to operate while maximizing available space.

Canopy Garage Door (Single Panel Garage Door)

A canopy or single-panel garage door is a classic choice, opening as one large piece. It swings out before rising to sit overhead. This door type can work well for smaller RVs like Class B motorhomes but requires ample space in front of the garage since it swings outward when opening.

Double-Panel Garage Doors

Double-panel garage doors consist of two sections that fold up as the door opens. They provide more flexibility than a single-panel design and require less space in front of the garage. These doors are a suitable option for larger RVs like Class C motorhomes or fifth-wheel trailers

Roller Garage Door

Roller garage doors are made of narrow horizontal slats that roll up into a drum located above the door. They are perfect for garages with limited space as they take up no ceiling or wall space inside the garage. Roller doors are durable and easy to maintain, making them a great option for protecting your RV.

Vertical Lifting Doors

Vertical lifting doors open straight up, making them an ideal choice for garages with high ceilings. This design helps maximize garage space without the door extending outward or inward. It’s particularly useful for taller RVs like Class A motorhomes, as it provides a smooth entry and exit.

Sectional Garage Doors

Sectional garage doors are made up of multiple panels that open by sliding up and along the ceiling. These doors are one of the most popular choices for RV garage door width and height flexibility. They allow for a tight seal and can be customized to accommodate different-sized RVs, from travel trailers to Class C motorhomes.

Automatic vs. Manual Garage Doors

Automatic garage doors come with an electric opener, making them more convenient to operate with the push of a button. They’re especially useful for larger and heavier doors, such as double-panel or sectional types. On the other hand, manual garage doors rely on physical effort to open and close. They tend to be more budget-friendly but may require more work, especially for large RVs like motorhomes with garages.

Each type of garage door has its own advantages, depending on your garage space, budget, and specific needs. Choosing the right one will not only enhance the functionality of your RV garage but also ensure easier access and better security.

Can I Use Standard Garage Doors For My RV?

Many homeowners wonder whether they can use a standard garage door for their RV. Standard garage doors are typically designed for smaller vehicles, and while they may work for some smaller Class B motorhomes or truck campers, they’re generally not suitable for larger RVs. Let’s explore why a regular garage door might not be the best option for your RV doors and what alternatives you should consider.

Limitations Of Standard Garage Doors:

• Height Restrictions: Standard garage doors typically have a height of around 7 to 8 feet, which is insufficient for most RVs. Larger RVs, like Class A motorhomes and fifth-wheel trailers, can reach heights of up to 14 feet. Using a standard door would prevent you from fitting taller RVs comfortably into the garage, potentially damaging the roof of your vehicle.
• Width Constraints: The average garage door width for standard garages ranges from 8 to 10 feet, while RVs, especially motorhomes, often require a minimum width of 12 to 16 feet. If the door is too narrow, you’ll struggle to maneuver your RV through the opening, risking scrapes and other damage.
• Inadequate Depth: Besides height and width, the depth of your garage matters. Most garages built for regular cars aren’t deep enough to accommodate the length of Class A motorhomes or fifth-wheel trailers, which can range from 30 to 45 feet long. A typical car garage is only about 20 to 24 feet deep, limiting your options for larger RVs.

Custom RV Garage Door Solutions:

Since most standard garage doors won’t work for motorhomes or larger trailers, custom RV garage doors are often the best solution. You can design these doors to match the specific RV garage door dimensions needed for your vehicle, ensuring enough space for height, width, and depth.

• Taller Garage Doors: Opting for a door with a height of 12 to 14 feet is ideal for most RVs. This extra clearance ensures smooth access, even if your RV has added features like air conditioning units or satellite dishes on the roof.
• Wider Garage Doors: A door width of 12 to 16 feet provides enough space for easy maneuverability, especially if you have a larger motorhome.
• Durable Materials: Consider stronger materials like steel or aluminum for added security and longevity, especially if you store your RV for long periods.

While a standard garage door may seem like an easy solution, it rarely meets the needs of RV owners. Custom doors designed specifically for RVs provide better convenience, protection, and security.

Benefits Of Having An RV Garage

Investing in a dedicated RV garage provides many advantages beyond just giving your vehicle a place to park. Whether you own a Class A motorhome, travel trailer, or a fifth-wheel trailer, having a well-designed garage ensures your RV is protected, secure, and always ready for your next adventure. Here are some of the key benefits of having an RV garage:

• Protection From Weather: An RV garage shields your vehicle from harsh weather conditions such as sun, rain, snow, and wind. This protection helps prevent wear and tear on the exterior and roof, ultimately extending the lifespan of your RV by preserving its condition.
• Enhanced Security: Storing your RV in a garage reduces the risk of theft or vandalism. A secured space with a strong garage door for your RV adds a layer of protection, giving you peace of mind when you’re not using the vehicle.
• Reduced Maintenance Costs: By protecting your RV from the weather and external damage, a garage can help lower ongoing maintenance and repair costs. Fewer issues related to exposure mean less frequent repairs, which can save you money in the long run.
• Increased Convenience: Having a dedicated RV garage makes accessing your vehicle easier. You won’t have to worry about renting storage space or dealing with tight parking situations, as your RV will always be readily available when you need it.
• Added Storage Space: An RV garage can double as additional storage space for equipment, tools, and travel gear. With shelves or overhead storage options, you can organize everything you need for your trips in one convenient location.
• Higher Property Value: Adding an RV garage can boost your home’s resale value, especially if future buyers are RV enthusiasts. The extra feature can be seen as a significant upgrade, offering potential buyers both convenience and savings.
• More Room For Customization: With an RV garage, you can create a fully customized storage solution for your vehicle. You can choose the RV garage door dimensions that best suit your needs, whether it’s adding height for Class A motorhomes or extra width for easier parking.

Having an RV garage ensures your vehicle remains in excellent condition, while also providing practical benefits like added storage, enhanced security, and property value.

Tips To Choose The Right RV Garage Door Size

Choosing the correct RV garage door size is important for ensuring your RV fits comfortably and is well-protected. From the height of your RV to the available space in your garage, there are several factors to consider. Below are some key tips to help you make the best decision when selecting the right garage door for your RV.

• Measure Your RV Accurately: Before purchasing any garage door, accurately measure both the height and width of your RV, including any rooftop accessories like air conditioning units or antennas. For larger Class A motorhomes, the garage door may need to be at least 14 feet high and 12 to 16 feet wide to allow for easy access.
• Consider Future Upgrades: If you plan to upgrade or add accessories to your RV in the future, account for these changes in your garage door size. It’s best to choose a door that provides a little extra clearance to avoid future modifications.
• Choose A Door With Extra Width: A wider door provides extra room to maneuver your RV when parking. Ideally, the RV garage door width should be at least 2 to 3 feet wider than your RV. This ensures there’s enough space on both sides to avoid scrapes or dings.
• Account For Driveway Slope: If your driveway is sloped, it could affect how the RV enters the garage. Measure carefully to ensure the slope doesn’t reduce the effective height of the garage door, and add a few extra inches of clearance if necessary.
• Choose The Right Door Type:The type of door you choose can impact the available space. Options like roller garage doors or vertical lifting doors can save space while providing ample clearance. Consider your garage’s layout and ceiling height when selecting the door type, as some doors, like bifold doors, may take up more interior room.
• Select Durable Materials: When choosing a garage door for your RV, opt for durable materials like steel or reinforced aluminum. These materials are strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of regular use and provide better security and insulation for your garage.
• Consult With A Professional: If you’re unsure about the best RV garage door dimensions for your space, consulting with a garage door professional can help. They can provide recommendations based on the type of RV you have and your specific garage setup, ensuring you get the perfect fit.

FAQs:

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right garage door size for your RV is important to ensure proper fit and functionality. Consider your RV’s dimensions, garage space, and desired features when making your selection. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find the perfect garage door that will meet your specific needs and enhance your RV experience.