Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful garage door installation, yet this critical step is often where costly mistakes begin. This definitive Hampshire garage door measuring guide ensures you get the precise dimensions needed for a perfect fit the first time.

We provide step-by-step instructions for measuring different garage opening types common across Hampshire, from newer standardized openings to the irregular dimensions often found in older properties. Learn the proper technique for measuring width, height, headroom, side room, and backroom clearances, with specific considerations for different door mechanisms.

With this comprehensive measuring guide, you’ll avoid the expense and frustration of incorrectly sized doors, ensuring your Hampshire garage door project proceeds smoothly from the very beginning. The guide addresses common measuring pitfalls, explaining how to account for uneven floors, out-of-square openings, and obstructions that might affect door operation.

SWS Roller Garage Door Measuring Guide

Getting the measurements right is absolutely crucial when ordering your new SWS roller garage door. Even small measuring errors can lead to expensive mistakes, inappropriate door sizes, and potential installation problems. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the precise steps needed to measure correctly for your SWS roller garage door installation in Hampshire.

Tools Required

Before attempting to measure for your SWS roller garage door, gathering the proper tools will ensure precision and help you avoid costly errors. A metal tape measure is absolutely essential, as fabric or plastic tapes can stretch or sag, leading to inaccurate readings that might be off by several millimetres – enough to cause installation problems.

Before starting your measurements, gather these basic tools:

• Metal tape measure (fabric tapes can stretch and give inaccurate readings)
• Notepad and pencil
• Spirit level
• Helper (optional but recommended for larger openings)

Opt for a sturdy metal tape measure with clear markings and a locking mechanism to maintain tension while recording dimensions. A digital laser measure can provide enhanced accuracy for larger openings, though it’s not strictly necessary. Always use a proper spirit level to check if your garage floor, lintel, and side walls are perfectly horizontal or vertical, as many older Hampshire properties have settled unevenly over time.

Finally, having a second person assist you not only makes the job easier but also provides an extra set of eyes to verify your measurements, potentially catching errors before they become expensive mistakes. With these tools in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to gather the precise measurements needed for your new SWS roller door.

Understanding Roller Garage Door Terminology

SWS roller doors operate differently from traditional up-and-over or sectional doors, and this affects what and how you need to measure:

Curtain: The main door section made of interlocking aluminium slats that roll around the barrel.

Guide Rails: Vertical channels on each side that the door travels in.

Headroom: The space between the top of the opening and any obstruction (ceiling, rafters).

Barrel Assembly: The tube mechanism at the top that the door curtain wraps around when open.

Essential Measurements for SWS Roller Doors

1. Opening Width

The width measurement is critical and needs to be taken at three points:

1. Measure the width at the bottom of the opening
2. Measure the width at the middle of the opening
3. Measure the width at the top of the opening

Record the narrowest measurement of these three figures. This ensures your door will fit even if the opening isn’t perfectly square.

Technical note: SWS roller doors require the guide rails to be fitted to the inside face of the opening or onto the structural columns. Your ordered door width should typically be the opening width plus approximately 100mm (50mm for each guide rail), but always check the specific requirements for your chosen SWS model.

2. Opening Height

Similar to width, take height measurements in three places:

1. Left side from floor to lintel
2. Centre from floor to lintel
3. Right side from floor to lintel

Record the shortest measurement to ensure proper fit.

Important: If the floor is uneven or sloped (common in older Hampshire properties), measure from the highest point of the floor. This prevents the door from catching when closing.

3. Headroom Requirements

Headroom is particularly important for roller doors as they need space for the barrel assembly above the opening. For standard SWS roller doors:

• Manual doors typically require 300mm of headroom
• Electric doors usually need 300-350mm of headroom
• Compact systems (like the SWS SeceuroGlide Compact) may need only 205mm

Measure from the top of the opening to the nearest obstruction, such as a ceiling, beam, or pipes.

4. Side Room

Measure the available space on both sides of the opening:

• Standard SWS roller doors need approximately 70-100mm on each side
• This space accommodates the guide rails and ensures proper operation

5. Depth Requirements

Unlike up-and-over doors, roller doors don’t project into the garage when open, making them ideal for shorter driveways common in Hampshire’s terraced properties. However, you should still measure:

• Interior space depth (for motor installation if applicable)
• Exterior clearance (if the door includes an external hood)

Special Considerations for SWS Roller Doors

Electric Operation

If you’re planning to install an electric operator (highly recommended for convenience):

• Check for a nearby power source
• Add approximately 50mm additional headroom to standard requirements
• Confirm there’s space for the motor unit on one side

Sloping Garages

For garages with sloping floors or driveways (common in hilly areas of Hampshire):

• The bottom slat of an SWS roller door can accommodate minor slopes
• For more significant slopes, special adaptations may be needed
• Always measure from the highest point of the floor

Bay Windows and Unusual Features

Some Hampshire properties have bay windows or architectural features that protrude into the garage space:

• Measure any protrusions from the wall
• Note their height and position
• These may require special consideration when positioning guide rails

Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

1. Assuming the opening is square: Most garage openings aren’t perfectly rectangular, especially in older Hampshire properties. Always measure in multiple places.
2. Measuring to plaster or decorative trim: Always measure to the solid structural opening, not to plaster, render or decorative elements that might be removed.
3. Forgetting about door furniture: Consider handles, locks, or other projections that might interfere with the door operation.
4. Ignoring obstacles: Note any light fixtures, pipes, electrical installations or structural beams that might interfere with the door or its mechanism.
5. Measuring the existing door: If replacing a door, measure the structural opening, not the dimensions of the current door.

Recording Your Measurements

Create a clear diagram of your garage opening and record all measurements, including:

• Width (at three points, noting the smallest)
• Height (at three points, noting the smallest)
• Headroom available
• Side room on left and right
• Any obstructions or special features
• Floor conditions (level, sloping, uneven)

When to Seek Professional Measurement

While many homeowners can successfully measure for SWS roller doors, consider professional measurement if:

• Your garage has an unusual shape or features
• You’re uncertain about structural aspects
• The opening appears significantly out of square
• You’re converting from a different door type to a roller door

Professional measurement services ensure accuracy and can identify potential installation challenges that might not be immediately obvious.

Final Verification

Once you’ve completed your measurements:

1. Double-check all figures
2. Have someone else verify the measurements if possible
3. Consider taking photographs of the opening with a tape measure visible for reference
4. Note any unusual features that might affect installation

Conclusion

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a successful SWS roller garage door installation. Taking the time to measure correctly will ensure your new door fits perfectly, operates smoothly, and provides years of reliable service.

Remember that SWS roller doors offer excellent space efficiency for Hampshire properties with limited driveway or headroom, but precise measurements are essential to take full advantage of these benefits. When in doubt, consult with a professional installer who specializes in SWS products to ensure the perfect fit for your home.

By following this comprehensive measuring guide, you’ll have all the information needed to order your SWS roller garage door with confidence, avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring a smooth installation process.