Selecting the right garage door is a crucial decision for homeowners looking to enhance both functionality and curb appeal. The standard size for a double garage door is 16 feet wide by 7 feet tall, making an 8×16 garage door an ideal choice for accommodating two vehicles or providing ample space for larger vehicles and storage needs. With a wide range of materials, insulation options, and additional features, it’s important to understand what to look for when making this decision.
Content
Why Choose an 8×16 Garage Door?
An 8×16 garage door is perfect for those who require more space than a single-car garage can offer. Whether you’re looking to park two vehicles comfortably or need extra storage room, this size is optimal. Not only does it provide wider access, but it also offers a stylish upgrade to the overall look of your home.
Advantages of an 8×16 Garage Door:
Wider clearance: Easily accommodates larger vehicles or multiple cars.
Improved convenience: Eliminates the hassle of maneuvering into tight spaces.
Enhanced aesthetics: Adds a balanced, symmetrical appearance to your home’s exterior.
Material Choices for Garage Doors
Choosing the right material is essential when selecting an garage door, as it affects both durability and appearance. Here’s a breakdown of popular material options:
Material
Benefits
Considerations
Steel
Strong, low maintenance, available in many finishes
Can rust if not properly maintained
Aluminum
Lightweight, resistant to rust
Prone to denting, less durable than steel
Wood
Traditional, elegant look
Requires frequent maintenance, prone to warping
Composite
Eco-friendly, resistant to rot
Higher upfront cost than steel
For a robust, low-maintenance option, an steel garage door is a popular choice. Meanwhile, wood or composite materials can offer a more refined, classic appearance.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation Options
Insulated garage doors can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home, especially if your garage is attached. Opting for an insulated garage door helps maintain temperature control and can reduce energy costs over time. Insulation comes in different types, each with varying levels of thermal resistance (R-value).
Insulation Type
R-Value
Best Use
Single Layer (None)
R-Value: 0-2
Warmer climates, detached garages
Double Layer (Polystyrene)
R-Value: 6-9
Moderate climates, everyday use
Triple Layer (Polyurethane)
R-Value: 10+
Colder climates, high insulation
Higher R-values provide better insulation, making 8 x 16 insulated garage doors the optimal choice for colder climates or homes that require efficient temperature regulation.
Cost Breakdown of an Garage Door
The cost of an garage door depends on factors like material, insulation, and additional features. Here’s a rough estimate of costs:
Component
Estimated Cost
Standard steel door
$800 – $1,500
Insulated steel door
$1,200 – $2,000
Custom wood/composite door
$2,500 – $5,000
Installation costs
$300 – $600
When budgeting for an garage door, remember to consider both the purchase price and the cost of professional installation. Shopping online can often help you find better deals; many homeowners choose to buy their 8×16 garage door online to compare options and prices.
Installing an 8×16 Garage Door
Installing an garage door can be a challenging task that’s often best left to professionals. If you’re handy and prefer a DIY approach, you’ll need the right tools and careful planning. Here are some essential tips for installation:
Installation Steps:
Measure your garage opening: Ensure your garage can accommodate the 8×16 garage door.
Prepare the area: Remove any old hardware or doors, ensuring a clean working space.
Install tracks: Secure the horizontal and vertical tracks for the door to glide smoothly.
Attach panels: Begin with the bottom panel, working your way up.
Install springs and cables: Properly tension the springs and secure the cables to avoid any operational issues.
If you’d rather leave it to the experts, hiring professionals for 8×16 garage door installation ensures the door operates smoothly and safely.
Top 8×16 Garage Door Brands
When investing in an 8×16 garage door, it’s worth considering the reputation of the brand you choose. Some of the top manufacturers offer high-quality doors with warranties and various design options.
Brand
Standout Features
Coplay
Wide range of styles, energy-efficient options
Amarr
Durable designs, excellent insulation
Wayne Dalton
Customizable options, stylish designs
Overhead Door
Innovative openers, heavy-duty construction
These brands are known for their reliable products and excellent customer service, making them great options when selecting the best 8×16 garage door for your home.
Enhancing Your 8×16 Garage Door with Additional Features
Adding Windows for Style and Light
One of the most popular upgrades for an 8×16 garage door is the addition of windows. Windows not only improve the aesthetics but also allow natural light to enter the garage, making it more functional during the day.
Window Type
Advantages
Frosted Glass
Offers privacy while letting in light
Clear Glass
Maximizes natural light, modern appearance
Decorative Windows
Enhances curb appeal with elegant designs
An 8×16 garage door with windows can significantly increase your home’s curb appeal while improving the utility of your garage.
Automatic Garage Door Openers for Convenience
For added convenience, an automatic 8×16 garage door opener can make entering and leaving your garage a breeze. Modern openers come with advanced features like smart controls, quiet operation, and even battery backups.
Opener Type
Benefits
Belt-Drive
Quiet operation, ideal for attached garages
Chain-Drive
Durable, affordable, great for heavy doors
Smart Openers
Wi-Fi connectivity, control from your Smartphone
If ease of use and enhanced security are priorities, consider installing an automatic 8×16 garage door opener to make everyday tasks more convenient.
Maintenance Tips for Your 8×16 Garage Door
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and smooth operation of your 8×16 garage door. Some maintenance tips include:
Lubricating moving parts: Apply a garage door lubricant to the springs, rollers, and hinges to reduce friction and wear.
Inspecting for damage: Check for any signs of wear, rust, or misalignment in the tracks and door panels.
Testing the balance: Ensure the door is balanced by manually opening it halfway—if it stays in place, it’s well-balanced.
For more serious issues like a malfunctioning opener or significant wear, hiring professionals for 8×16 garage door replacement is recommended.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 8×16 garage door is an important decision that affects both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home. With a variety of materials, insulation options, and additional features, homeowners can tailor their garage doors to meet their specific needs. Whether you’re focused on energy efficiency, durability, or style, the information provided here can help you make an informed decision. Ready to upgrade? Buy your 8×16 garage door online today or consult a professional for installation.
Shellie Olivares is a dedicated home blogger who has been blogging for over six years. She covers everything home related. Shellie also loves writing posts about her travels to Europe with her husband and two children.
