How Many Square Feet Is A Typical Two-Car Garage? (Answered & Much More)

Last Updated on July 17, 2023 By Emma W. Thomas

A typical two-car garage typically measures around 400 to 600 square feet. The size may vary based on factors such as the number and size of vehicles, additional storage needs, and workspace requirements. Standard dimensions for a two-car garage are approximately 20 feet by 20 feet, but some may be larger to accommodate larger vehicles or additional storage space.

What is the Minimum Size for a 2 Car Garage?

When planning to build a new garage or looking for a property with an existing one, it’s important to understand the minimum size requirements for a 2-car garage. Whether you have two small compact cars or larger vehicles like SUVs, having sufficient space in your garage is crucial for parking convenience and maintenance tasks. In this listicle, we will explore the minimum size recommendations for a 2-car garage to ensure you have enough room for parking and maneuverability.

• Standard Dimensions:

The standard minimum size for a 2-car garage is approximately 20 feet wide and 20 feet deep, which provides a total of 400 square feet of space. This basic dimension allows for parking two average-sized cars side by side with enough clearance for car doors to fully open.

• Compact Cars:

If you own two smaller compact cars, you might be able to get away with a slightly smaller garage, such as 18 feet wide by 20 feet deep. This site can still offer enough space for parking and maneuvering.

• Large Vehicles:

For larger vehicles like trucks or SUVs, it is recommended to opt for a wider garage. A minimum size of 22 feet wide and 22 feet deep is preferable in this case, ensuring you have ample space to comfortably open doors and maneuver within the garage.

• Additional Space for Storage:

To make the most efficient use of your 2-car garage, consider adding some extra space for storage. Including a workshop area or racks for tools can help maximize the functionality of your garage. A minimum of 20 feet by 22 feet might be ideal to accommodate both vehicle parking and additional storage needs.

• Clearance and Door Sizes:

Apart from considering the width and depth, it’s also important to account for adequate clearance and door sizes. The minimum recommended height for a garage door is around 7 feet, but if you have taller vehicles like vans or pickup trucks, an 8-foot height clearance is advisable to avoid any clearance issues.

• Local Building Codes:

Always check with your local building codes and regulations as they may vary. Some areas might have specific requirements regarding garage sizes, setbacks, or other construction details. Ensure compliance with these regulations to avoid any potential issues down the line.

Standard Sizes For Two A Two-Car Garage

For a two-car garage, there are a couple of different measurements that you can use to build it. The various sizes offer distinct qualities and spaces for you. 

The most common measurements in two-car garages are:

18 Feet Long By 20 Feet Width.

The space in this garage equates to 360 square feet of space which is the standard area that can hold two cars. However, this space can feel squeezed, and it does not offer much room to do anything else.

20 Feet Long By 20 Feet Width.

This is the second option garage size; it provides a space of 400 square feet. This garage is slightly larger than the 18ft by 20ft garage, but it offers more space to navigate around your cars.

20 Feet Long By 22 Feet Width.

This size of the garage gives you a space of 440 square feet. The size is more than enough, and therefore you get extra space to park bicycles or scooters.

24 Feet Long By 24 Feet Width.

Such a garage offers 576 square feet of space. The measurements might not seem as much, but in reality, it provides a lot more options than the other garage sizes. You can even build yourself a workbench and storage facilities in the garage. And, you can comfortably park two pickup trucks.

24 Feet Long By 30 Feet Width.

This is by far the biggest two-garage door available. It offers 720 square feet of space that you can customize to your liking. You can add as much as you want to this garage as it is very spacious.

What Should You Consider When Building A Two-car Garage?

When deciding the size of the garage you need, there are various things you need to consider. 

This includes:

Height

The height of your cars should be a benchmark for how high you will want your garage to be. The carry-ons, your vehicle antennas, and lights in your garage ceilings have to be incorporated into the calculations too. You should also consider adding some height if you want to use the top for storage, e.g., to keep a kayak. 

The Width

A squeezed garage poses a risk of damaging your car as you open the doors. Anytime you have luggage, it becomes hard to take them out without major hustle. Ensuring your garage has adequate space is a priority.

Proper clearance is also useful to perform different activities around your car. Most people use garages for more than just parking cars. Storage cabinets and workshop desks can be installed in the garage. You will need to consider all this when deciding on your garage width.

The Depth

Being in a position to walk around your parked car with ease should be as easy as possible. Most times, the depth of the garage is overlooked as it is considered an arbitrary factor. Having your car fit in the garage and the door closed with no space left is not enough; you need an allowance on both ends.

The Function Of Your Garage

A garage is not just a space you use to park your vehicle; you may want to use it for many other purposes. So, if you’re going to use your garage for other different tasks, you need to consider how much space they will take and incorporate it into your measurements.

How can you perfectly park in a small car garage?

Parking in a small car garage can be challenging, especially if you have a tight space to maneuver. However, with a few helpful tips and tricks, you can become a pro at parking your car in these challenging spots. In this listicle, we will explore some practical strategies to help you perfectly park in a small car garage.

• Measure your garage space:

Before attempting to park in a small garage, it is crucial to measure the available space. Take note of the garage’s width, height, and length to ensure your car can fit comfortably without any obstructions. Having accurate measurements will assist you in making calculated decisions while parking.

• Utilize mirrors and rearview cameras:

Having well-adjusted mirrors and utilizing your car’s rearview camera are essential tools for parking in tight spaces. Ensure that your mirrors give you a clear view of both sides of your car whenever adjustments are required. Rearview cameras can provide an additional perspective, especially when reversing.

• Take it slow:

When parking your vehicle in a small garage, patience is key. Slow down and take your time to navigate the tight space. Avoid any rush or urgency to prevent unnecessary accidents. By going slow, you give yourself ample time to make precise adjustments and park your car safely.

• Learn the art of parallel parking:

Mastering the art of parallel parking is a game-changer when it comes to parking in a small garage. Practice this skill in open spaces to boost your confidence. By mastering parallel parking, you’ll be able to squeeze your car into tight spots both smoothly and efficiently.

• Practice parking with cones:

Setting up cones or any other markers in your driveway can help simulate the challenges of parking in a small car garage. This practice will enhance your spatial awareness, judgment, and precision. Regular practice with these markers will improve your parking skills over time.

• Use parking aids:

Consider installing parking aids to make your parking experience easier. These aids can include proximity sensors or parking assist systems that alert you when you are getting too close to an obstacle. Investing in such technology can greatly reduce the risk of accidental damages while parking in tight spaces.

• Be mindful of the door and wall clearances:

When parking in a small car garage, it is vital to keep in mind the door and wall clearances. Make sure there is sufficient space to open your car doors comfortably without hitting any obstructions. Be cautious of any protruding objects or walls that can scrape against your car’s paintwork.

• Optimize space with the proper organization:

Take advantage of your garage space by organizing it effectively. Clear out any unnecessary clutter or objects that occupy valuable parking space. Utilize wall-mounted shelves, hanging hooks, or overhead storage solutions to make room for a more efficient parking experience.

• Get a spotter:

If available, enlist the help of a spotter when parking in a small car garage. Having a second pair of eyes can greatly assist in navigating tight spaces with ease. The spotter can guide you to ensure you are positioned correctly while avoiding any potential obstacles.

• Practice frequently:

Lastly, practice makes perfect! Regularly park your car in small garages to enhance your skills and build confidence. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at parking in tight spaces.

How Can You Utilize A Small Garage To Park Two Cars?

If you have already built your garage and the space you have is not adequate for your cars, there are various ways you can incorporate to utilize it.

Taking a sled hammer to your garage walls should be the last resort.

Some of these measures to utilize your small garage space include:

• Using a park and slide system.
• Parking your car at an angle to increase available spaces.
• Build a tandem garage for the frequently used car.
• Remove all the clutter in your garage.
• Reduce the cabinet sizes to increase space around your vehicles.

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Two-car Garage?

The standard 20 feet by 20 feet two-car garage door will cost 20,000-30,000 dollars. These prices will change as the garage size changes and any other additions you might want to incorporate. 

What To Consider When Hiring A Contractor To Build Your Garage

When hiring a professional to modify or construct your garage, it is important to ensure that they will do quality work. 

Here is a guide on what you need to counter-check before choosing the contractor to build your garage.

• Customer reviews from previous jobs.
• Ensure that the contractor has the proper certificates and licenses.
• Ask to see some of their previous jobs.
• Enquire about warranties offered.
• Research how long they have been in business. (The longer, the better).
• Their insurance policy

Final Thought

On average, the smallest two-car garage is 360 square feet, and the largest is 720 square feet. However, you can build your garage as large as possible as there is no limit. You should also consider the size and type of your cars, the intended functions of your garage, and the space you have to spare to get the ideal size garage that will serve your needs. 

References:

https://www.hometownstructures.com/blog/how-big-is-a-2-car-garage/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/how-many-square-feet-is-a-2-car-garage