How to Install an Exterior Side Door for your Garage
by Zap Garage Doors|5 February, 2025
Installing a side door in your garage is a fantastic way to increase the usability of your garage, making the space more readily accessible, while still maintaining full security.
For these reasons, at Zap Garage Doors, we have had an increasing number of our customers ask us to install side doors in their garages.
If this is an investment that you’re considering, or would like to find out more about, keep reading.
Below, our garage door specialists have outlined the full process for installing a side door for a garage, plus the key points that you will need to consider before commencing installation.
What are the benefits of garage side doors?
There are many reasons why a property owner may choose to invest in a garage side door.
Although it might seem strange – after all, there is already a door at the front! – this is actually a relatively quick, simple and affordable way to maximise the utility of your garage. This is especially true if your existing garage front door is difficult or cumbersome to use, or requires manual operation.
The benefits of adding a garage side door include:
- Making it easier to access the garage – by allowing you to open a simple standard door, rather than the larger, main door)
- Improving safety – by providing an alternative exit, in the event of an emergency.
- Maintaining the same high security standards – with a robust and secure locked door.
- Improving airflow – as you can leave the door ajar, to bring some fresh air into the room (thereby also reducing the risk of damp or mould buildup).
- Reducing your wear on the main door – thereby helping to increase its lifespan.
- Increasing the value of your property – with an attractive, convenient and sought-after addition to your garage.
- Easy access to manual override on Garage Doors in the event of a power cut
Points to consider before installing a garage side door
Before you get started, here are a few key questions that you will need to answer.
- What door size would work best for you? Typically, standard exterior doors are 900mm wide, and 2100mm high.
- What materials do you already have available? Will you need a pre-hung door (with the frame and hinges included), or do you only need a door slab? All of ZAP Side Doors are Pre Frame.
- Have you confirmed that there are no electrical wires present in the area where you’re planning to install the door? If there are, then you may need to enlist a professional to reroute them for you.
- Have you checked that any plumbing systems won’t interfere with the installation?
- Have you confirmed that the wall you’re installing the door on is not a load-bearing wall, and does not serve as a structural reinforcement for the garage?
If you’re uncertain about any of the points listed above, Zap Garage Doors can take care of this full process for you, with our complete installation services. Speak to a member of our team to find out more.
The standard process for garage side door installations
Mark out the width and height with space for the frame
Once you’ve chosen your door, mark out the exact dimensions of the door (ensuring you leave space for the frame). Use a spirit level to ensure a neat, precise result.
Cut out the brickwork
Using an angle grinder or a Brick saw, carefully cut along this outline. You must then install a lintel at this point.
We recommend you start the brick cutting by first making shallow cuts, before gradually deepening them. This will help to minimise the stress placed on the rest of the wall. Once you’ve fully cut through the outline, remove the loose bricks (using a hammer and chisel).
Install the frame
Insert the door frame into the opening. Check that it fits neatly and flush within the area that you’ve cut. If you’re happy with the fit, secure it in place using a masonry anchor (going from the bottom of the frame, upwards). Use a spirit level to check that the frame is even, then screw it into the brickwork.
Install the door
Finally, attach the door hinges to the frame, mount the door in place, and add handles and locks. Confirm that the door is opening and closing smoothly, then it’s ready for use!
If you don’t have the right equipment or feel confident doing this yourself, then don’t worry. At Zap Garage Doors, our skilled installation team can take care of this full process for you.
To learn more about our installation services or discuss your options, don’t hesitate to get in touch.