Tailoring Your Space: Choosing the Right Garage Door Height for Your RV

When it comes to owning an RV, it's not just about the open road and adventure– it's also about ensuring your prized possession is well-protected and ready for your next journey. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to the world of recreational vehicles, one of the most crucial decisions you'll face is choosing the right garage door height for your RV storage. After all, a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn't cut it when you're dealing with these homes on wheels. 

At Metal Carports, our metal RV garage experts understand the art of tailoring your space by helping you navigate the intricate process of selecting the perfect garage door height for your RV. Say goodbye to the stress of limited headroom and unexpected complications, and say hello to hassle-free storage solutions that ensure your RV is always adventure-ready.

Understanding RV Dimensions

When it comes to recreational vehicles, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. RVs come in a wide range of sizes and classes, each designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Understanding these variations is the first step in determining the right garage door height for your RV shelter.

Class A Motorhomes

A Class A RV is the giant of the RV world, often resembling tour buses. They can range from around 30 to 45 feet in length and may have various roof accessories, such as air conditioning units, satellite dishes, and even rooftop decks.

Class B Motorhomes

Also known as camper vans, these are compact and versatile, usually measuring between 17 to 24 feet. They have a lower profile but still require adequate clearance.

Class C Motorhomes

Falling between Class A and Class B, these RVs are typically 20 to 33 feet long. They have an over-cab sleeping area, which adds height to consider when storing them.

Travel Trailers

These come in various sizes, from small teardrop trailers that are under 10 feet to large models that can reach 40 feet or more. The height varies depending on the design and features.

Fifth-Wheel Trailers

These trailers are towed by pickup trucks and can range from 20 to over 40 feet in length, with varying heights.

Pop-Up Campers

Compact when collapsed, they can extend to different heights when set up, so consider both dimensions.

How to Measure RV Height

Accurate measurement of your RV's height is paramount for both the safety and convenience of entering your metal garage or metal carport. To ensure you have the precise measurements needed for selecting RV garage door sizes, follow these tips:

• Level Ground: Park your RV on a level surface to get accurate measurements, as uneven terrain can skew the results.
• Measure from the Ground: Using a straightedge or a level, measure from the ground to the highest point on your RV. This may include antennas, air conditioning units, and other accessories.
• Retractable Parts: If your RV has retractable features like slide-outs or pop-up sections, measure them in both extended and retracted positions.
• Check All Sides: RVs aren't always perfectly level, so measure from multiple points on all sides to account for any discrepancies.
• Consult Manufacturer's Specifications: Refer to your RV's manual or manufacturer's specifications for precise height information.
• Consider Future Changes: If you plan to add or modify accessories on your RV, account for these potential height changes when measuring.

By taking the time to accurately measure your RV's height, you'll be better equipped to select the right custom garage door height, ensuring safe and convenient storage for your beloved recreational vehicle.

Standard Garage Door Height for RV

Garage doors come in a variety of heights, each designed to accommodate different types of vehicles and storage needs. Understanding these standard garage door heights and their typical applications can provide valuable insights for choosing the right garage door size for your needs.

Single Garage Doors (7 to 8 Feet)

Single garage doors are the most common and typically range from 7 to 8 feet in height. They are suitable for accommodating standard passenger vehicles and small trucks.

Double Garage Doors (16 Feet)

Double garage doors, around 16 feet in width, can often be found in homes with multiple vehicles. They offer ample space for two cars parked side by side.

RV Garage Doors (12 to 14 Feet)

Some homes come equipped with RV-sized garage doors, usually ranging from 12 to 14 feet in height. These doors are specifically designed for storing recreational vehicles, including motorhomes and travel trailers.

Tall Garage Doors (10 to 12 Feet)

Tall garage doors are ideal for accommodating larger trucks or SUVs with roof racks, as well as providing extra clearance for various activities, such as home workshops.

Are Standard Garage Doors Suitable for RVs?

While standard garage door heights are perfectly adequate for everyday vehicles, they often fall short when it comes to housing RVs. 

Here's why:

• Inadequate Height: RVs, especially Class A motorhomes, can exceed 12 feet in height. Standard garage doors simply don't provide the necessary clearance for these taller vehicles, increasing the risk of collisions and damage.
• Limited Access: Even if an RV fits through the door, the confined space may make it challenging to maneuver the vehicle in and out comfortably. This can be frustrating and time-consuming, detracting from the joy of RV ownership.
• Height-Related Modifications: RV owners might need to remove roof accessories like air conditioning units or satellite dishes every time they want to store their vehicle in a standard garage, which can be impractical. 

Limitations of Standard Garage Door Height for RVs

Attempting to squeeze an RV into a standard garage designed for smaller vehicles can lead to a host of issues:

• Structural Damage: The RV's roof, antennas, and other protruding features may collide with the garage door frame, causing costly structural damage.
• Reduced Durability: Maneuvering an RV into a tight space can result in scrapes and dings, reducing the aesthetic appeal and potentially impacting resale value.
• Inconvenience: Constantly adjusting and removing accessories just to fit into the garage is time-consuming and inconvenient, discouraging RV owners from using their vehicles frequently.
• Safety Concerns: Attempting to park an RV in a space with insufficient clearance can pose safety risks, both to the vehicle and the operator.

In light of these limitations, it's clear that standard garage door heights are ill-suited for RV storage. RV owners should explore alternative solutions, such as metal carports with customizable door heights, to ensure their investment is stored safely and conveniently.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Garage Door Height

RVs are not your typical vehicles, and their storage needs are equally unique. When selecting the right garage door height for your RV, consider the following distinctive requirements:

• Vertical Clearance: RVs, especially Class A motorhomes, can be towering. Ensuring adequate vertical clearance is essential to prevent damage during entry and exit.
• Horizontal Clearance: RVs are often wider than standard cars. Make sure the garage door's width is also compatible with your RV to avoid uncomfortable and potentially damaging maneuvers.
• Length Considerations: RVs come in various lengths, and the garage should be long enough to accommodate your vehicle comfortably. This is especially important if you have additional accessories like bike racks or storage boxes at the rear.

Benefits of Choosing the Right RV Garage Door Height

When your garage door height is perfectly matched to your RV's dimensions, you're in for a world of convenience and ease. 

Here's how:

• Effortless Entry and Exit: No more nervously inching your RV in and out of a too-small space. With the right garage door height, you can confidently maneuver your RV without the stress of tight clearances.
• Quick and Hassle-Free Storage: Whether you're parking your RV after a road trip or preparing for a new adventure, a well-fitted garage door allows you to store your vehicle quickly and without complications.
• Streamlined Maintenance: Accessing the roof and conducting routine maintenance tasks becomes a breeze. This encourages you to take better care of your RV, ensuring it's always in top shape for your journeys.

Contact Our Experts in Metal RV Garages Today

Ready to make sure your RV or precious belongings are protected with the perfect metal carport? Don't leave it to chance- leave it to the metal garage experts at Metal Carports. 

Contact our team of seasoned professionals in metal RV solutions today and take the first step toward tailored reliable storage solutions. Get started by calling us at  877-517-4422 or filling out the contact form below.