Single vs. Double Garage Doors: Which Is Better for Your Home?

When it comes to designing or upgrading your garage, one of the first decisions homeowners face is whether to install a single garage door or a double garage door. Both options offer unique benefits in terms of convenience, space, and curb appeal. The choice often depends on your home’s design, lifestyle needs, and budget. At Overhead Door Reno, we’ve been helping families in Northern Nevada since 1979 choose the right garage door solutions that match both function and style.

If you’re weighing the pros and cons of a single garage door versus a double garage door, this guide will help you make the best decision for your home.

What Is a Single Garage Door?

A single garage door typically ranges from 8 to 10 feet wide and is designed to accommodate one vehicle. Homes with two-car garages may feature two separate single doors with a dividing column in between.

• Design flexibility: Each door can be customized to fit different looks.
• Energy efficiency: Smaller openings mean less heat or cold escaping, which is helpful in Reno’s extreme summers and snowy winters.
• Independent access: If one door malfunctions, the other can still operate.

Many homeowners in Sparks, Reno, and Lake Tahoe prefer the versatility of the single garage door setup, especially if they like the balance of two separate entry points.

What Is a Double Garage Door?

A double garage door is wider, usually around 16 feet, and allows two vehicles to enter and exit through one large opening. For many modern homes, the double garage door creates a sleek, unified appearance that enhances curb appeal.

• Easier access: A single large door makes it easier to maneuver vehicles in and out, especially for larger SUVs or trucks.
• Streamlined design: Many homeowners like the clean, modern look of one wide garage door instead of two smaller ones.
• Lower maintenance overall: With one opener and one large door, there are fewer moving parts to maintain compared to two separate doors.

At Overhead Door Reno, we install a wide range of double garage door styles, from insulated steel models to contemporary aluminum and glass designs, giving homeowners both beauty and durability.

Key Considerations When Choosing Between Single and Double

1. Home Design & Aesthetics
If your home has a traditional look, two single garage doors can add symmetry and character. On the other hand, a double garage door often works best with modern homes, providing a bold, uninterrupted design element.

2. Convenience & Accessibility
For families with multiple vehicles, a double garage door provides the convenience of a wider entry point. However, if you value independent access, two single garage doors may be the better fit.

3. Climate & Energy Efficiency
Northern Nevada’s hot summers and snowy winters can put a strain on heating and cooling. A single garage door minimizes the size of the opening, which can reduce temperature loss. However, insulated double garage doors available through Overhead Door Reno provide excellent energy efficiency.

4. Budget & Maintenance
Upfront costs may be higher for a double garage door, but there is only one opener and one set of tracks to maintain. With two single garage doors, you’ll have double the components, which can increase long-term maintenance but also offer backup functionality if one fails.

Which Option Is Right for You?

• Choose a single garage door if you want:
  • More energy efficiency per opening
  • Classic, symmetrical curb appeal
  • Independent operation for multiple vehicles
• Choose a double garage door if you want:
  • Maximum convenience for parking and maneuvering
  • A modern, streamlined exterior look
  • Fewer moving parts to maintain overall

At Overhead Door Reno, we work closely with homeowners to evaluate garage space, lifestyle, and budget to determine whether a single garage door or a double garage door is the better fit.

Why Choose Overhead Door Reno?

Since 1979, Overhead Door Reno has been the trusted source for residential and commercial garage doors throughout Northern Nevada. As the only distributor of genuine Overhead Door™ products in the area, we offer unmatched quality, advanced technology, and designs that stand up to Reno’s unique climate.

Whether you’re considering a stylish single garage door or the convenience of a double garage door, our expert team provides professional installation, repair, and ongoing maintenance to keep your home secure and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

Both the single garage door and the double garage door offer unique advantages, and the right choice comes down to your home’s design and your personal needs. With decades of experience, Overhead Door Reno can help you make the best decision and provide a garage door that delivers style, efficiency, and long-lasting performance.