Why Homeowners Want a Garage Entry Door
- Easy access to the outside, the yard, pool, or trash bins
- Separate entrance for tenants or workshops
- Better airflow, insulation, and lighting
- Emergency exit
How to Create New Exterior/Entry Door in Garage
Step-by-step guide to adding convenient access doors to your garage while maintaining structural integrity.
By Ridgeback Builders
Adding a new door to your garage is one of the most overlooked upgrades for Florida homeowners. It boosts convenience, improves ventilation, and increases resale value
At Ridgeback Builders, we’ve helped homeowners across Fort Myers, Naples, Port Charlotte, Sarasota, Tampa, Bradenton, West Palm Beach, and Port St. Lucie safely cut into garage walls and install new doors that are secure, weather-resistant, and code-compliant. Here’s what you need to know before creating a new door in your Florida garage.
1
Identify the Structural Wall Type
The first step is determining whether the garage wall is made from cinderblock or from wood. Many garage side and rear walls support trusses or roof systems.
- Use wall scanners and framing knowledge to confirm stud types
- Check the joist direction from the attic space
- Ensure any structural changes include headers, pre-cast lintels, or load redistribution
2
Choose the Right Door Type
In Florida, door choice isn’t just about looks — it’s about weather resistance, energy efficiency, and durability.
- Steel or fiberglass insulated doors
- Impact-rated doors (especially for coastal areas)
- Pre-hung entry doors with thresholds
- Flush doors with hurricane brackets
We also advise on door swing direction based on yard layout, security, and Florida wind zone requirements.
3
Cutting and Framing the Opening
Our team will:
- Mark and cut the wall with precision tools
- Frame the opening to match the door size and code requirements
- Add moisture barriers and sealants
- Install flashing and other waterproofing materials around the doorway
- Finish the stucco flashing, and paint where necessary
4
Engineering Plans, Permits, Inspections, and Florida Code
Adding an exterior door in Florida usually requires a building permit and inspections. If your garage is air-conditioned or part of a conditioned space, additional code requirements apply (like insulated doors and air sealing).
- Permit applications
- Engineering drawings (if structural changes apply)
- Coastal wind zone compliance
- Inspection coordination with your city or county
Ready to Start?
We blend smart design with technical excellence to build projects that last and impress.
Serving Lehigh Acres, Fort Myers, Naples, Port Charlotte, Sarasota, Tampa, Bradenton, West Palm Beach, Port St. Lucie, and nearby cities.