Why were sliding garage doors problematic for properties in dense suburban areas?
Answer
They required significant clear wall space on either side of the opening to slide completely.
Sliding doors operated on tracks parallel to the exterior wall. In the growing suburbs where property lines were tighter and driveways were often positioned immediately against the structure, this requirement for clear side space was a major drawback. If a car was parked too close to the side wall, it would block the path of the door, making it impossible to operate.

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