Many Melbourne garages, especially in older homes, units and townhouses, have very little space between the top of the door opening and the ceiling. The good news is there's almost always a door that will fit. You just need to know what to measure and which door types work best.

What to measure

  • Headroom: the distance from the top of the opening (the lintel) to the ceiling or the lowest obstruction, such as a beam, pipe or light.
  • Side room: the wall space on each side of the opening, needed for tracks, guides and brackets.
  • Opening width and height.
  • Depth (backroom): the distance from the opening to the back wall, for doors that run along the ceiling.

Measure in a few places, because ceilings and lintels aren't always level. We'll confirm everything during a free measure and quote.

Sectional doors for low headroom

Sectional doors are usually the first choice for low clearance. Many need only around 250mm of headroom, and low-headroom track kits can reduce this further. Because the door runs back along the ceiling rather than coiling above the opening, it also suits wide openings.

Good to know: sectional doors need clear ceiling space along the tracks, so check for downlights, storage racks and attic access.

Roller doors for low headroom

A roller door coils into a drum above the opening, so it needs more headroom than a sectional door. Depending on the door's height, it can need up to around 500mm. In return, it leaves the ceiling completely clear for storage, lights or a car hoist.

Good to know: smaller-diameter drums and slimline designs help in tight spaces, but a very low lintel may still rule out a roller door.

Quick comparison

  • Least headroom needed: sectional
  • Leaves the ceiling clear: roller
  • Best insulation and sealing: sectional
  • Usually most affordable: roller
  • Widest design choice: sectional

Other options

For unusual openings, very little side room or a custom architectural look, a custom or counterweight door may be the answer. These are built to suit the space.

Get it measured properly

Getting the measurements right is the difference between a door that fits perfectly and one that rubs, catches or can't be motorised. Book a free measure and quote and we'll recommend the best door for your space.