How to Convert Your Single Garage Door to a Double

Whether or not a single or double garage door is the best option remains up for debate, but more people are looking to extend their garages and convert their single garages to a double to maximise space. If you’re considering this renovation project for your own property, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take and the benefits of doing so.

Initial Planning and Assessment

Before starting any demolition work for your garage extension, a thorough structural evaluation is essential. Your garage’s load-bearing walls need to be carefully assessed to determine if they can support the wider opening. The existing header beam will also need to be replaced with a longer, stronger beam to span the new door.

Depending on your property, you may also need to identify and plan around any electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems that could be located in the walls, such as if you’re extending an automated garage door. Since your garage will involve structural changes, it’s also worth checking with your local authority if planning permission is needed for your garage extension.

Choosing Your New Double Garage Door

Your new garage door is a significant investment that impacts both functionality and curb appeal, so it’s important to do your research into the right style and material for your needs. Steel doors offer durability and low maintenance, while wood doors provide classic beauty but require more upkeep.

GRP doors are lightweight and offer excellent impact-resistance – they can also be manufactured to replicate wood without the maintenance requirements. Consider your climate when selecting insulation levels too. Choose a design that balances aesthetics with practical considerations like maintenance requirements and durability.

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

Demolition Phase

Demolition starts by carefully removing the existing garage door and track system in preparation for the new one. It’s important to use proper techniques here to remove the sections of wall, working carefully to avoid damage to surrounding structures. It can help to rent a skip for proper disposal of the debris, separating materials that can be recycled. Keep your work area clean and organised throughout the demolition to maintain safety and efficiency.

Structural Modifications

Temporary support beams need to be installed before you can remove any load-bearing elements. The new header beam installation is critical – it needs to be properly sized and supported to carry the load above the wider opening. This might involve modifying the wall framing to accommodate the new door dimensions, ensuring everything is plumb, level, and square. If foundation modifications are needed, they must be completed before proceeding with framing changes.

Electrical and Utility Work

The next step is to locate any electrical outlets, switches or fixtures affected by the wider opening. Plan where you want the new opener system to be installed, including the outlet placement and lighting modifications – proper placement of the safety sensors is also crucial for the new door system’s operation. Our installers will assist you with this, making sure everything is installed properly and safely.

New Door Installation

The new opening now needs to be prepared with proper flashing and weatherproofing, and the track system installed, ensuring perfect alignment. Next, the door panels are installed carefully, paying special attention to seals and insulation. Mount all hardware securely, including springs, cables, and rollers. Finally, if you’ve chosen an electric door opener, this will be installed and programmed, including safety features and smart home integration if desired.

Maintenance and Care

It’s important to establish a regular maintenance routine for your new double garage door system to protect your investment and ensure your door lasts for many years to come. For example, it helps to lubricate moving parts monthly, including rollers, hinges, and springs, and check and adjust spring tension seasonally to maintain proper door balance. Learn to recognise signs of wear or misalignment that require professional attention, and keep records of all maintenance and repairs for warranty purposes.

Monitor your new door system for signs of alignment issues that could develop over time. Balance issues need to be addressed promptly to prevent opener damage and ensure smooth operation. You may also need to adjust the opener force settings seasonally too, as the door weight can change slightly with temperature and humidity. Similarly, check weather seals regularly and replace as needed to maintain energy efficiency.

Converting a single garage door to a double is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning, proper permits, and skilled execution. But while it requires an upfront investment, it can add substantial value to your property and improves your garage’s functionality.

If you’d like to find out more about upgrading your garage door, get in touch with the team at Wessex Garage Doors today and we’d be happy to help.