Is a garage door possible on this old garage?
#1
05-22-09, 09:50 AM
Is a garage door possible on this old garage?
This is my single-car garage that has had the original door opening filled with cinder blocks. I'd like to put a garage door back on it - nothing fancy, just functional for a small boat I'd like to keep stored in there.
It looks like the cross-member above is rotted, so I'm sure I'd need to replace that. But my question is: do you think I'm just asking for trouble by attempting this? It's an old building, and I just keep thinking that whoever took the old door out did so for a reason.
I'm thinking this looks like a pretty straightforward project:
- knock out the cinder blocks
- replace that member
- put in the new garage door
It doesn't look like that wall is supporting much of anything considering the roof is just plywood with aluminum over it.
Am I oversimplifying this? Would you attempt it in a weekend?
Any insight appreciated. I'm pretty handy, but no Bob V.
#2
05-22-09, 10:06 AM
Super Moderator
I don't see why it couldn't be done. That top row of block that extends past on each side would be where the header would need to go. Then you'd have to attach framing to the sides of the brick to support the header and for the door to close against. You'd also have to attach framing on the inside of the front to have a place to attach track. Can't see the entire area of block so I can't estimate height of door needed. Might be special order if you don't have at least 7 1/2 feet or so. Standard door widths are 8'...is the opening wide enough for that? Of course you can always order a door to fit, but it could be expensive. You may want to investigate a rollup door like you see on storage units. Smaller ones aren't too expensive, though not cheap. This is assuming you aren't putting swingout barn doors on it of course.
I won't try to comment on how to do any of it since I'm not a carpenter or a mason. It does concern me that it looks like the walls may just be a single thickness of brick. I can't really tell. It might be an issue attaching to them.
Weekend...doubtfull...2 weekends..maybe.... depending on problems found.
I won't try to comment on how to do any of it since I'm not a carpenter or a mason. It does concern me that it looks like the walls may just be a single thickness of brick. I can't really tell. It might be an issue attaching to them.
Weekend...doubtfull...2 weekends..maybe.... depending on problems found.
#3
05-22-09, 10:16 AM
I'm pretty sure it's about 8'. Those tables on the interior photos are 6' long, and there's at least a foot on either side of them.
Walls are more than a single layer of brick.
I'm sure I'd end up going with the cheapest door possible - so hopefully I don't have to order anything custom.
Walls are more than a single layer of brick.
I'm sure I'd end up going with the cheapest door possible - so hopefully I don't have to order anything custom.
