The ceiling height you need may vary slightly depending on the lift model you select,
but here’s the general rule of thumb:
- Measure the total height of the two vehicles that you want to store one above the other
- Add 8″ to the total height (this allows for the 4″ thickness of the platform plus 2″
for raising the platform off of its locks and another 2″ for clearance) - If the total is less than the height of your ceiling, you’re in business!
Usually anything less that a nine-foot ceiling is too low, although this may not be the case if
one (or both) of your cars is a low-profile model. Of course, you also need to take a careful look at
the way your garage door opens to be sure the door or its opening mechanism doesn’t get in the way.
Three Great Alternatives for Too-Low Ceilings
You can get around the problem of a too-low ceiling by choosing one of the following options:
- Consider backing in your top vehicle: If your roll-top garage door is too low, you may be able
to simply back in the top vehicle you’re storing. This will situate your engine hood – which is lower
than the roof – beneath the garage door, thus saving you from having to raise your garage door. - Have your garage door tracks raised by a professional garage door installer. Depending on what
needs to be done, the average cost for this service usually runs around $400-$1200. - Purchase one of our subterranean parking lift models, although you need to bear in mind that
these are obviously more expensive due to the excavation required.
