When planning to build or purchase a garage, one of the first and most crucial questions is: what size should a single car garage be? The answer isn’t always straightforward as it depends on various factors, from the size of your vehicle to your storage needs. While a minimum size exists, opting for a slightly larger garage can significantly enhance convenience and functionality.
Let’s delve into the ideal dimensions for a single car garage and the key considerations to ensure you choose the perfect size for your needs.
Minimum Dimensions for a Single Car Garage
The absolute minimum size for a single car garage is typically 10 feet wide by 18 feet deep (10′ x 18′). This size is theoretically designed to accommodate a small vehicle. However, in practice, a more realistic and functional minimum is closer to 12 feet wide by 20 feet deep (12′ x 20′).
Why the discrepancy? While a 10′ x 18′ garage might technically fit a compact car like a Smart Car, it leaves very little room to maneuver around the vehicle, open doors comfortably, or store anything else. For most modern cars, including sedans and small SUVs, a 20-foot depth is essential to avoid constantly bumping into the back wall when parking.
Why a Slightly Larger Garage is Better
Choosing a slightly larger size for your single car garage offers numerous advantages that enhance usability and long-term satisfaction.
Comfortable Vehicle Access
A garage that is just large enough to squeeze your car in can quickly become frustrating. Trying to navigate around your car in a tight space, especially with doors open, can be challenging. A slightly wider and deeper garage provides ample room to open car doors fully, walk around the vehicle comfortably, and easily access the trunk.
Storage Space
Even if your primary goal is just to park your car, garages often become de facto storage areas. From seasonal tires and car maintenance tools to bicycles, gardening equipment, and general household storage, extra garage space is invaluable. A larger single car garage provides the flexibility to store these items without making the space feel cramped or hindering vehicle access.
Future-Proofing
Vehicle sizes tend to fluctuate over time, and your needs may change. Opting for a slightly larger garage provides future-proofing. You might upgrade to a larger vehicle in the future, or your storage needs might increase. Building a slightly more spacious garage now can save you from the hassle and expense of needing a larger garage down the line.
Determining Your Ideal Single Car Garage Size
To determine the ideal Single Car Garage Size for you, consider these factors:
Vehicle Size
The most crucial factor is the size of your current vehicle and any potential future vehicles.
- Compact Cars: While a 12′ x 20′ garage can accommodate most compact cars comfortably, consider adding extra width if you want more storage or workspace.
- Sedans and Small SUVs: A 12′ x 20′ to 14′ x 22′ garage is generally a good fit for sedans and smaller SUVs, providing comfortable parking and some storage.
- Larger SUVs and Trucks: For larger SUVs and trucks, consider a garage that is at least 14′ x 22′ or even 16′ x 24′. These larger dimensions will ensure ample space to park comfortably and still have room to move around.
Remember to measure your vehicle’s length, width, and door opening space to get a clear idea of your minimum garage size requirements.
Storage Needs
Assess what you plan to store in your garage besides your vehicle.
- Minimal Storage: If you only need space for a few essential car-related items, a 12′ x 20′ or 12′ x 22′ garage might suffice.
- Moderate Storage: For storing bikes, lawn equipment, tools, and some general household items, aim for 14′ x 22′ to 16′ x 24′.
- Significant Storage or Workshop Space: If you envision your garage as a workshop, hobby area, or require substantial storage, consider garages 16′ x 24′ or larger. You could even explore options like a 16′ x 26′ or 18′ x 24′ to create dedicated zones for parking and workspace.
Garage Style and Design
The style of your garage can also influence the perceived and actual space.
- Standard Garage: A standard garage with an A-roof provides functional space for parking and basic storage.
- Dutch Barn Garage: Dutch barn garages, with their gambrel roofs, offer increased vertical space, which is excellent for loft storage. This design maximizes storage without increasing the garage’s footprint.
- Two-Story Garage: For maximum storage capacity without expanding the ground footprint, consider a two-story garage. This option effectively doubles your storage space, providing a full second floor accessible by stairs.
Garage Door Size
Don’t forget to consider the garage door size. A standard single car garage door is typically 8 or 9 feet wide. However, for larger vehicles or to allow for easier maneuvering, consider a wider door, such as a 10-foot wide door. For larger single car garages (16′ wide and up), you might even consider a wider 12-foot door or larger for maximum access.
Common Single Car Garage Sizes: Examples
Here are a few common single car garage sizes and what they typically accommodate:
- 10′ x 12′ Garage: Best suited for very small cars like Smart Cars or for use as a small storage shed. Limited vehicle space and minimal to no extra storage.
- 12′ x 20′ Garage: A practical minimum for most single cars. Offers basic parking with minimal extra space. Suitable for compact to mid-size sedans.
- 14′ x 22′ Garage: A comfortable size for most cars and smaller SUVs. Provides room for parking and some storage.
- 16′ x 24′ Garage: An ideal size for larger vehicles, SUVs, and trucks. Offers ample parking space and significant storage or workshop potential.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Size for You
Determining the right single car garage size involves carefully considering your vehicle dimensions, storage needs, and long-term plans. While minimum sizes exist, opting for a slightly larger garage is generally a wise investment that enhances convenience, functionality, and future-proofs your garage space.
Before making a decision, measure your vehicle, assess your storage requirements, and think about how you plan to use your garage. By thoughtfully considering these factors, you can confidently choose a single car garage size that perfectly meets your needs for years to come.
Explore various prefab garage options to find the perfect size and style for your property.
