A three-car garage is a popular addition to many homes, providing ample space for multiple vehicles and extra storage. However, determining the size of a three-car garage can be challenging, as it depends on several factors such as the size of the cars, the amount of storage space needed, and the available land area.
According to experts, a standard three-car garage ranges between 620 to 816 square feet, with a width of 31 to 34 feet and a depth of 20 to 24 feet. However, these dimensions may vary based on the type of vehicles that will be parked in the garage. For instance, if you have larger vehicles such as SUVs or trucks, you may need a garage that is deeper and wider than the standard size.
When building a three-car garage, it is essential to consider the specific needs of the homeowner. A garage that is too small may not provide enough space for the vehicles and storage, while a garage that is too large may take up too much space on the property. By understanding the standard dimensions of a three-car garage and factoring in personal preferences, homeowners can create a functional and practical space that meets their needs.
Table of Contents
Understanding Garage Sizes
Garages come in different sizes to accommodate different needs. The size of a garage is usually determined by the number of cars it can hold. A 1-car garage, for instance, is smaller than a 3-car garage. In this section, we will explore the different garage sizes and their dimensions.
1-Car Garage
A 1-car garage is the smallest type of garage. It is designed to hold one car and has an area of about 240 sq ft. The typical dimensions of a 1-car garage are 10 feet wide by 24 feet long. However, some garages may be as small as 12 feet by 20 feet, while others may be as large as 14 feet by 28 feet.
2-Car Garage
A 2-car garage is the most common type of garage. It is designed to hold two cars and has an area of about 400-600 sq ft. The typical dimensions of a 2-car garage are 20 feet wide by 20 feet long or 20 feet wide by 24 feet long. However, some garages may be as small as 18 feet by 20 feet, while others may be as large as 24 feet by 24 feet.
3-Car Garage
A 3-car garage is larger than a 2-car garage and is designed to hold three cars. It has an area of about 600-900 sq ft. The typical dimensions of a 3-car garage are 30 feet wide by 20 feet long or 32 feet wide by 24 feet long. However, some garages may be as small as 28 feet by 20 feet, while others may be as large as 36 feet by 30 feet.
4-Car Garage
A 4-car garage is the largest type of garage. It is designed to hold four cars and has an area of about 900-1,200 sq ft. The typical dimensions of a 4-car garage are 40 feet wide by 20 feet long or 40 feet wide by 30 feet long. However, some garages may be as small as 36 feet by 20 feet, while others may be as large as 48 feet by 30 feet.
Carports
A carport is a covered structure used to offer limited protection to vehicles. Unlike garages, carports do not have walls and are usually attached to a house or building. The typical dimensions of a carport are 12 feet wide by 20 feet long or 18 feet wide by 20 feet long. However, some carports may be as small as 10 feet by 20 feet, while others may be as large as 20 feet by 40 feet.
Dimensions of a 3-Car Garage
Width
The minimum width for a 3-car garage is 30 feet. However, the common range for a 3-car garage width is 31 to 34 feet. The width of your garage will depend on the number and size of vehicles you plan to park inside. If you have larger vehicles, such as SUVs or trucks, you may want to consider a wider garage to allow for more space and maneuverability.
Depth
The minimum depth for a 3-car garage is 20 feet. However, the common range for a 3-car garage depth is 20 to 24 feet. If you want to use your garage for storage or as a workspace, you may want to consider a deeper garage. For larger vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, a deeper garage may also be necessary to allow for proper clearance.
Height
The minimum height for a 3-car garage is 8 feet. However, the common range for a 3-car garage height is 9 to 10 feet. If you plan to use your garage for storage, you may want to consider a higher ceiling to allow for more vertical space. Additionally, if you have larger vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, a higher ceiling may be necessary to allow for proper clearance.
Clearance
The minimum clearance for a 3-car garage is 7 feet. However, the common range for a 3-car garage clearance is 8 to 10 feet. If you have larger vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, you may want to consider a higher clearance to allow for proper clearance. Additionally, if you plan to use your garage for storage or as a workspace, you may want to consider a higher clearance to allow for more vertical space.
Overall, the size of your 3-car garage will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to consider the size and number of vehicles you plan to park inside, as well as any additional space you may need for storage or as a workspace. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your 3-car garage meets your needs and provides ample space for all of your vehicles and belongings.
Accommodating Different Vehicle Sizes
When it comes to designing a three-car garage, it’s important to consider the size of the vehicles that will be parked inside. Here are some guidelines to help you determine the minimum square footage required to accommodate different vehicle sizes:
Full-Size Cars
Full-size cars, such as sedans and coupes, typically range in length from 16 to 18 feet and have a width of around 6 to 7 feet. To comfortably fit three full-size cars in a garage, you’ll need a minimum of 22 feet by 30 feet of space, which equates to 660 square feet.
Mid-Size Cars
Mid-size cars, such as SUVs and crossovers, are slightly larger than full-size cars and typically range in length from 18 to 20 feet and have a width of around 6.5 to 7.5 feet. To comfortably fit three mid-size cars in a garage, you’ll need a minimum of 24 feet by 32 feet of space, which equates to 768 square feet.
Compact Cars
Compact cars, such as hatchbacks and small sedans, are smaller in size and typically range in length from 14 to 16 feet and have a width of around 5 to 6 feet. To comfortably fit three compact cars in a garage, you’ll need a minimum of 20 feet by 26 feet of space, which equates to 520 square feet.
Crossover SUVs
Crossover SUVs, which are a combination of an SUV and a sedan, are larger than traditional sedans and typically range in length from 18 to 20 feet and have a width of around 6.5 to 7.5 feet. To comfortably fit three crossover SUVs in a garage, you’ll need a minimum of 24 feet by 32 feet of space, which equates to 768 square feet.
Minivans
Minivans are larger than most cars and typically range in length from 16 to 22 feet and have a width of around 6.5 to 7.5 feet. To comfortably fit three minivans in a garage, you’ll need a minimum of 22 feet by 36 feet of space, which equates to 792 square feet.
It’s important to note that these are just general guidelines, and the actual square footage required may vary depending on the specific dimensions of your vehicles. Always measure your vehicles and factor in any additional storage or workspace needs when determining the size of your three-car garage.
Other Considerations
When planning for a three-car garage, there are other considerations to keep in mind beyond the square footage. These include the garage door width and the potential for living space.
Garage Door Width
The garage door width is an important factor to consider when designing a three-car garage. Standard garage doors are typically 8 feet wide, but for a three-car garage, a double-wide garage door can be used, ranging from 14 to 16 feet wide. This allows for larger vehicles to easily enter and exit the garage without any issues.
Living Space
Another consideration is the potential for living space within the garage. While a three-car garage can provide ample space for vehicle storage, it can also be converted into additional living space. This can include a home gym, workshop, or even a guest room. However, it is important to note that adding living space to a garage may require additional permits and zoning approval.
Overall, when designing a three-car garage, it is important to consider the garage door width and the potential for living space. By taking these factors into account, homeowners can create a functional and versatile space that meets their specific needs.
How Many Sq Feet is a 3 Car Garage: Key Takeaways
A standard three-car garage typically ranges between 22 feet and 32 feet wide and between 20 feet and 26 feet deep, giving it an area between 440 sq ft and 832 sq ft. However, the size of a three-car garage can vary depending on the type of vehicles to be stored and the intended use of the garage.
For instance, if you have an SUV or a truck, a minimum size of 25 feet deep by 36 feet wide would be a better fit and allow for storage or work space. On the other hand, if you plan to use the garage for storage or as a workshop, you may need to consider a larger size to accommodate your needs.
Here are some key takeaways to consider when determining the size of a three-car garage:
- A standard three-car garage ranges between 22 feet and 32 feet wide and between 20 feet and 26 feet deep, giving it an area between 440 sq ft and 832 sq ft.
- If you have an SUV or a truck, a minimum size of 25 feet deep by 36 feet wide would be a better fit.
- If you plan to use the garage for storage or as a workshop, you may need to consider a larger size to accommodate your needs.
It is important to note that the size of a three-car garage can vary depending on the location, zoning laws, and building codes in your area. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a professional builder or contractor to determine the appropriate size for your specific needs.
