The track radius is the curved part of your track that transfers the door from the vertical position to the horizontal position, or vice versa. Typically, the larger the radius, the smoother and more quietly your door will be as it opens and closes. Similar to a long winding road, if the angle is approached more gradually it can be more easily managed.
Why Radius Matters
The radius is one of many factors that can determine the height of your garage door’s horizontal panels–which is important if you’re considering a 3 panel door with a larger window section.
If overhead space is important to you, choosing the largest possible radius for your specific garage, or upgrading to a high lift track, allows your door to be closer to the ceiling, optimizing the headroom in your garage.
The track radius can impact everyday situations in your garage. If you have an elevated entryway door to your home in your garage and a radius that is too small, the track will run through the eye-line and be an eyesore, as well as potentially dangerous.
You’ll also want to consider the radius if you use your garage for everyday car parking. A radius that is too low in comparison to the height of your vehicle could cause your trunk or car door to hit the track, motor rail or open garage, resulting in damage.