Get matched with top garage pros in Wadena, MN

The smallest size a standard 2-car garage can be is 20 feet by 20 feet, so at these dimensions, you could reasonably expect to fit two cars inside. However, it’s going to be a tight fit, especially if you have larger SUVs or pickup trucks. For smaller cars, 20 x 20 should be plenty for parking and some space to maneuver around the cars. A larger garage size would be better to ensure you have room to open the doors and transport groceries or other items around the cars.

Garage doors are heavy and close under power, so ensuring they're safe should be one of the priorities of a homeowner. Installing at least one sensor is a good start, but it doesn't hurt to have two, especially considering you can install a secondary system for less than $100. Remember that sensors require calibration and simple but regular maintenance checks— installing them is only the first step.

You should let your initial paint job dry at least 12 hours before opening the door. Check your work after 12 hours have passed to confirm there are no uneven patches, or signs of the old paint showing though—if you see any, we recommend applying a second coat of paint and waiting an additional 12 hours for it to dry. 

The best paint for a garage door depends on the door's material, the desired finish, and durability requirements.

Paint Type

The type of paint you need often depends on the material of your garage door:

• Aluminum Doors: Typically require exterior acrylic paint.

• Vinyl and Wood Doors: Exterior latex paint is usually recommended.

• Steel Doors: Professionals often use latex or oil-based paint.

You can choose between acrylic, oil-based, and latex paints. Acrylic paint offers excellent UV and weather resistance and dries quickly, but may require multiple coats. Oil-based paints are very durable and may only need one coat, but they dry slowly and emit more VOCs. Latex paint is available in a wide range of colors and is forgiving to apply, but it can crack over time and may require a primer for even coverage. For an eco-friendly option, consider acrylic latex paint.

Paint Finish

You have a wide variety of finishes to choose from, including semi-gloss, gloss, satin, eggshell, and matte. The choice is largely based on personal preference, but many people opt for a semi-gloss or gloss finish. These finishes dry to a hard, durable surface that stands up well to humidity and regular wear and tear.

Regardless of the type or finish, it's crucial to use a quality exterior paint that can withstand the elements. Using a primer before painting will ensure better adhesion and a more even, long-lasting result.