Choosing Proper Garage Size

At A-Shed USA, we’re here to provide you with everything you need when it comes to new garages. We have a huge variety of size and style options, and we also include garage doors, entry doors and all the other important elements with your installation.

We’ll also work with you to get a detailed picture of exactly what you need, and size is a common question area we get from those installing new garages. You may think deciding on the size of your new garage is as simple as choosing between one or two cars and moving on, but in reality there are several more factors that go into this process. Using the basic one-car garage as our example here, let’s go over some basics when it comes to choosing garage size.

Basic Space Needs

The absolute minimum size of a one-car garage will be 10 feet by 18 feet – but this is only if you’re looking to store virtually nothing but the vehicle itself in this space. For more normal space needs, we generally recommend at least 12×20 size, or perhaps more if needed. Also carefully consider overhead space, particularly if your vehicle is taller or has any tall elements to it.

Additional Space Options

In many cases, there are additional reasons why you might require some extra space in your garage. Maybe you’re looking to store a number of larger tools and similar items, such as lawnmowers, snowblowers or others. Or perhaps you have some other purpose in mind entirely for the garage space.

Achieving this will take a little more planning, but will be well worth it in the end. Be sure to measure your car or truck in advance to determine exactly how much space it’s taking up, then spend some time detailing how much additional space you need for your needs. Here are a few examples of one-car garage size themes, starting from the smallest possible and moving up to larger options:

• Smart car: If you have a smart car or another very small vehicle, you might be able to fit it into the 10×18 size one-car garage we mentioned above – or even something slightly smaller. You’ll only have room for the vehicle itself and perhaps a shelf on the back wall.
• Dutch style: Dutch style refers to one that offers more height than many other types, perfect for taller vehicles or other storage needs. Those looking for lofts in the garage regularly look to Dutch options.
• Two-story options: To take the above even further, you can consider two-story options if you need a lot of storage space. It’s possible to even install stairways in these kinds of garages.
• Double-wide: If you’re looking to store items like lawnmowers, bikes and others in the garage along with a vehicle, consider sizes like 20×24 – these can also be modified to two-car garages down the line if you need to, simply by installing two doors instead of one.

For more on choosing the right size for your garage, or to learn about any of our sheds, garages or other structures, speak to the pros at A-Shed USA today.