I read in a thread here that "You need 18" clearance above the door opening to get STANDARD door tracks (15" radius) to install easily."
If I complete the framing of my garage project with two standard top plates I will come up with 15 1/2 inches from bottom of header (including trim) and the bottom of the ceiling joists.
Can anyone tell me if 15" radius will still fit in this 15 1/2 inches or would it be absolutely necessary to go to a 12" radius track? I guess I am focused on the word "easily" in the quote. It is not to hard, either, to just add additional layers of top plate, what? two more courses, to get really close to 18 inches. Might be that is the best solution.
As I write this it occurs to me that in my situation the 15 inch radius track would have to be mounted flush on the surface of the ceiling whereas usually they are mounted on "stand off" brackets, right?
Of course, if I sheetrock the ceiling I loose another 1/2". Also, note that the ceiling joists run parallel to garage door.
I plan on installing 7 ft x 9 ft door(s).
Thanks.