A garage is more than simply a modest outbuilding for keeping your automobile in. Some people spend a lot of time in their garages, but that really depends on their habits and preferences.
Your garage can be a sanctuary from the stressful life that many of us encounter every day, whether you use it for storage, entertaining, playing pool with friends, or just relaxing.
It’s a good time of year to evaluate whether or not your garage may use some improvements to better accommodate your demands, and to start thinking about whether or not now is the best time to construct a new garage or remodel your current one.
The Importance of Timing
The end of winter or the beginning of spring is an excellent time to begin construction on a house expansion. It can be easier to dig a foundation and pour concrete footers when the earth is frozen and the air is dry.
A lot of families make the choice to construct a new garage sometime between late spring and early summer. They can get the most use out of their garage all summer and into the fall if they put some new ideas into action now. However, labour and supplies for your garage may be more expensive in the spring because to increased demand following the traditional start of the home-building season.
Roofing materials need to be exposed to higher temperatures to seal properly, therefore it’s best to do garage roofing projects in the summer and early fall.
The majority of households would prefer to have their garage construction or renovations completed by the year’s end. Homeowners who want to have their garages ready for Thanksgiving and other holiday events may want to rebuild the interior of their garages in the fall.
New Garage Planning Tips Constructing a new garage or remodelling an existing one is a job that can be quite involved. Designing a functional garage involves figuring out how much money and time the project will take, figuring out how much money and time the project will take, acquiring any necessary permits, laying a solid foundation, framing the building correctly, selecting the appropriate materials, and deciding on a door style and material.
Typically, the cost per square foot for a brand-new garage is from $30 to $55. The average size of a single-car garage is about 240 square feet, while a two-car garage is about 380 square feet.
Saving money on labour costs and getting the job done faster is possible if you frame a garage on your own utilising a prefabricated wood or steel frame kit.
FAQs About Garage Renovation
How Much Does It Cost To Upgrade A Garage?
The national average cost range for a garage remodel is between $7,000 and $15,000, with most homeowners spending around $11,000 on a full 2-car garage remodel with new cabinet storage and floor coating. This project’s lowest cost is around $3,000 for a cosmetic update with floor and wall paint and shelving.
How Long Does It Take To Finish A Garage?
Building the garage structure, including framing, roofing, windows, doors, trim and siding, can take 3-to 5 days depending on the size and complexity of the garage.
When Should You Renovate A Building?
If your building needs some repairs, such as updating electrical work, patching, cracking drywall, and replacing worn floors, renovating may be the right option for you. The general layout and design of the building remain the same.
How Much Value Does Finishing A Garage Add?
Get Creative with Extra Space
In fact, according to HomeAdvisor data, the average cost of converting the garage into a finished room costs an average of $11,986, with an 80% return on investment. So, not only does a finished garage provide more living space options, but it also provides substantial growth in home value.
Does A New Garage Increase Home Value?
A New Garage Means Increased Home Value. While that’s a substantial sum of money, when you consider that a garage will bump up the value of your home, it makes financial sense. You’ll see plenty of your investment back when you sell your home. You might even recoup the entire investment or more.
Factors And Timelines
Planning your project for the following year’s spring or summer is preferable. Numerous variables, including the availability of the crew, the availability of the necessary materials, the issuance of the necessary local permits, and the approval of the homeowner’s bank financing, can add several months to the construction process.
You’ll have more success reaching out to possible building partners if you prepare them for the possibility that this project won’t happen immediately, like an Amazon next-day delivery. Make the most of your scheduled downtime by learning as much as possible about garage builders, getting estimates, and asking questions.
Spring, Summer, And Fall
Planning your project for the following year’s spring or summer is preferable. Numerous variables, including the availability of the crew, the availability of the necessary materials, the issuance of the necessary local permits, and the approval of the homeowner’s bank financing, can add several months to the construction process.
You’ll have more success reaching out to possible building partners if you prepare them for the possibility that this project won’t happen immediately, like an Amazon next-day delivery. Make the most of your scheduled downtime by learning as much as possible about garage builders, getting estimates, and asking questions.
In The Meantime
There are ways to tidy up an existing garage to add value and tide you over until a full remodel or rebuild is available, if the thought of waiting a whole season or year is too much to bear. These types of renovations can be done quickly and for a lower price tag.
The life of your garage can be prolonged while you and your garage partner plan for a full makeover by doing maintenance and repairs such as installing a new door, replacing worn siding and roofing, or adding fresh paint and gutters to the exterior.
Take Advantage Of The Weather And Give Yourself A Winter Garage Makeover.
In the same way that many other home improvement tasks are best accomplished in the winter, garage remodelling is best accomplished in the same season. It’s understandable that you’d prefer to stay inside and paint or conduct other internal repairs when winter weather keeps you inside, but there are many solid reasons to give your garage a facelift instead.
Your Garage Is Closed For The Winter
Once the temperature in your garage continuously drops below freezing, it will be closed to vehicle traffic other than entry and exit. A parka prevents you from doing yard work, servicing your car, or fiddling at your workbench.
In other words, if you’re going to subject your garage to the mayhem that is a renovation job, you should do so when you have no pressing need to use the area.
Making Room For Another Car
Rearranging your garage is a great way to free up some floor space. Is there any more important task that could be performed there than making room for another car? You may put the days of scraping windshields and defrosting your automobile to rest by renovating your garage.
Garage Renovations in Time for Spring
Winter may feel endless, but spring and warmer weather are just around the corner, and you need to be prepared. With a little TLC over the winter, your garage will be ready for action come spring.
In need of a larger space to park your automobiles or set up your workshop? How would you like to be able to access your lawnmower and other outdoor tools without having to stoop and crawl through mountains of clutter? You can do all of this and more with a garage makeover.
The Best Deals Are In The Winter
Spending less on garage upgrades is a good idea at any time. It’s common for contractors to give steep discounts on their services during the colder months when business is slow. They’re also easier to find.
Give Garage Designs of St. Louis a call if you want to find out how to maximise the potential of your garage. They are the trusted experts in the St. Louis area when it comes to garage restoration and organisation. They will even provide you with a no-cost assessment on the potential of your property.
Don’t put off garage repairs or cleanup until the weather improves. Then, you won’t be short on options for passing the time. Do it now while it’s cold outside and you’ll have a garage you can use all year long.
Garage Renovation Ideas For Inspiration
You can put a price tag on a renovation that’s as unique as you are. The rise in the number of square feet that are subject to taxation may be a consideration for certain homeowners. Others will appreciate the benefits of a dedicated media room or recording studio in their residence. Still others long for a sanctuary dedicated to their prized playthings.
Whatever your motivation for wanting to convert that poorly constructed box in which you keep your spare items and so raise the value of your property, here are some creative things you can do with it.
We’ll go over some of our favourite concepts, from a revamped front porch perfect for summertime neighbourhood get-togethers to a sophisticated dining area.
Home Office
Working from home has several advantages, which is why many individuals and business owners choose to do it. Working from home can alleviate stress and save money on transportation costs.
One of the difficulties of working from home is that there is often no physical separation between business and personal time. Having trouble “getting in work mode” because of this is common.
A home office is a convenient and speedy solution to this issue since it gives you a dedicated room to get work done and a designated area to leave completed tasks behind when you leave.
Saving money on gas is just one of several financial advantages. You can deduct the amount of space in your house that you use for your main job from your taxes. With everyone’s finances being so tight, an annual tax deduction is certainly welcome.
If you’re going to design one, you might as well take into account the most up-to-date ergonomic guidelines for standing desks.
Movie Theater
A huge screen and a projector would turn your garage into a makeshift cinema. It can be configured into a high-quality sound system, taking into account the specifics of the room.
A few can lights for atmosphere and some foam sound deadening boards to cut down on echoes would be perfect. The cost of taking the family to the movies once every few weeks can be significantly reduced by investing in a plush carpet and a row of comfortable recliners.
Your loved ones will look forwards to the next Netflix movie or show…
Don’t let your house of worship turn into a community theatre!
Bedroom
Perhaps you have always envisioned a private master bedroom, set apart from the rest of the house. Right now is the perfect time to transform your garage into a luxurious master bedroom.
Bedroom, closet, and bathroom space equals the size of a two-car garage, making it a viable option. A home with a one-two power combination is a great investment and a great place to relax and recharge at the end of the day. You’ve earned it, so go for it.
In-law Suite/Efficiency Apartment
Is one of the kids ready to move into their own room? Perhaps one has returned home; this is a possibility now. Maybe you’re considering renting out a room in your house in order to bring in some additional cash.
Garages can be converted into in-law suites for a variety of reasons. By taking cues from the layout of a smart apartment, it is possible to make the most of a restricted amount of square footage.
Consult with a competent construction crew for advice on how to develop a cleverly concealed area that will accommodate another family without causing disruption to your own. In a community with a large student population, this can be very profitable.
Studio
A private studio is a must for any serious creative person. Converting a garage into usable space may be the best solution.
Artists, whether they are sculptors, painters, graphic designers, or architects, benefit from having ample room in which to work because it encourages the free expression of ideas.
Play Room
Your kids will eventually need more space to play in. The garage can be transformed into a flexible playroom that can grow along with your children. Toys, clutter, and noise may all be contained in a bright and enjoyable space by converting a garage.
It’s safe to shut yourself off from the rest of the house and enjoy some peace and quiet in your own room.
With the addition of a table for schoolwork and some bean bag seats, the space may be transformed into a lego cave or a video game centre. By the time they’re teenagers, the garage has become the neighbourhood hangout and performance venue of choice.
Neighbourhood Hangout
Having a front porch has always been the best way to get to know your neighbours and remain involved in the neighbourhood. A glass of iced tea and a rocking chair in the summer are made for exchanging tales and laughter on a warm evening.
Unlike the rest of your house, the garage has a large, broad, and wonderful door that may be opened to the outside world. The transformation of a garage into an interior front porch can be a productive and pleasurable use of the space.
In order to make the most of the natural light and provide yourself with a blank slate, it is recommended that you insulate, drywall, and paint the inside walls.
Put in some ceiling fans, stock up on rocking chairs, put out some tables, and put a fridge in one corner, and you’ll have a spot fit for making friends. You may make use of the driveway for an even longer evening if you bring a barbeque and a portable fire pit.
As soon as you’re through, roll everything back into the garage, where it will be safe from the elements, and shut the door. Until the next meeting of the neighbourhood social club, everything remains unchanged.
Five Things To Consider Before Your Garage Conversion Project
Converting a garage is a cost-effective and space-efficient addition to any home. Converting a garage into a habitable area is less of a hassle if the garage is attached to the house.
Add on to your existing kitchen, construct a home office, add a bedroom, or make a family room. To generate additional income, convert your huge garage into a rental unit.
The money you spend converting your garage is not wasted.
However, careful preparation is essential for success with this as with any other kind of house renovation.
An addition that serves its purpose and looks natural alongside the old building requires careful preparation. In addition, it guarantees that the temperature in your newly inhabited space is just right.
Putting your automobile in the garage is a waste of space. There are a number of things that need to be done to make the space hospitable for human habitation.
The most important factors are as follows:
Maintaining A Nice Indoor Temperature.
You can save money on heating and cooling costs by reusing the ductwork from your main house in the garage. This is effective, particularly if your home has an efficient HVAC system.
If it is not an option, then you should investigate different artificial heating and cooling systems. In the hot summer months, turn on the air conditioning in your room. When it gets chilly, turn on the gas or electric baseboard heater. Dislike electric space heaters? Turn on a wood stove instead. A radiant floor heating system can also be installed directly onto an existing concrete floor.
Before you put in any artificial heating or cooling, you should insulate the floor, walls, and ceiling. If your garage isn’t adequately insulated, your energy costs will rise.
Organising The Electrical Wirings
Expect a rise in your electric bill if you plan to turn your garage into a living space. Do not attempt to handle the wiring, switches, and outlets yourself; rather, seek the services of a qualified and insured electrician. If you are not a trained electrician, please hire one. All of us here hope that nothing bad happens.
Organising The Plumbing Lines
Whether you’re installing a new kitchen sink or updating your bathroom, plumbing must be planned out ahead of time. To do this task, having a plumber on hand would be useful. A plumber can take care of the plumbing and water supply.
You won’t need to instal plumbing if you just want to use the room as a bedroom or a lounge.
Getting Building Approval
Even though converting a garage is a very easy project, you will need a building permit before you begin. The local government should know why and how you’re building out of your garage.
The garage is also not fit for human habitation. In order to convert it into a habitable space, you must adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Australian Building Code (BCA).
Adding New Windows
There are no windows in the garage. They only have access to a big garage door.
Putting up windows is a great first step towards transforming a garage into a usable living space. These let in light from outside, giving the room the feel of an actual room rather than a garage that has been renovated.
You could replace the garage door with a wall that has windows all the way up to the ceiling or a sliding/stacking door if you insulate the wall appropriately. Invest in double-paned glass panes to make your windows more efficient at keeping in heat or cool air.
Conclusion
A garage is more than simply a modest outbuilding for keeping your automobile in. It can be a sanctuary from the stressful life that many of us encounter every day. Constructing a new garage or remodelling an existing one is a job that can be quite involved. Save money on labour costs and getting the job done faster is possible if you frame a garage on your own utilising a prefabricated wood or steel frame kit. Make the most of your scheduled downtime by learning as much as possible about garage builders, getting estimates, and asking questions.
Once the temperature in your garage drops below freezing, it will be closed to vehicle traffic. With a little TLC over the winter, your garage will be ready for action come spring. Garage Designs of St. Louis offer expert advice on how to maximise the potential of your garage. Costs can be significantly reduced by investing in plush carpet and comfortable seating. Bedroom, closet, and bathroom space equals the size of a two-car garage.
By taking cues from the layout of a smart apartment, it is possible to make the most of a restricted amount of square footage. Garages can be converted into in-law suites, studios, playrooms or even efficiency apartments. The transformation of a garage into an interior front porch can be a productive and pleasurable use of the space. Add on to your existing kitchen, construct a home office, add a bedroom, or make a family room. To generate additional income, convert your huge garage into a rental unit.
If you are planning to convert a garage into a living space, consider hiring an electrician. If your garage is not adequately insulated, your energy costs will rise. A plumber can take care of the plumbing and water supply as well as insulating the walls and floor.
Content Summary
- A garage is more than simply a modest outbuilding for keeping your automobile in.
- It’s a good time of year to evaluate whether or not your garage may use some improvements to better accommodate your demands, and to start thinking about whether or not now is the best time to construct a new garage or remodel your current one.
- The Importance of TimingThe end of winter or the beginning of spring is an excellent time to begin construction on a house expansion.
- A lot of families make the choice to construct a new garage sometime between late spring and early summer.
- However, labour and supplies for your garage may be more expensive in the spring because to increased demand following the traditional start of the home-building season.
- Roofing materials need to be exposed to higher temperatures to seal properly, therefore it’s best to do garage roofing projects in the summer and early fall.
- The majority of households would prefer to have their garage construction or renovations completed by the year’s end.
- Designing a functional garage involves figuring out how much money and time the project will take, figuring out how much money and time the project will take, acquiring any necessary permits, laying a solid foundation, framing the building correctly, selecting the appropriate materials, and deciding on a door style and material.
- Saving money on labour costs and getting the job done faster is possible if you frame a garage on your own utilising a prefabricated wood or steel frame kit.
- Factors And TimelinesPlanning your project for the following year’s spring or summer is preferable.
- In The MeantimeThere are ways to tidy up an existing garage to add value and tide you over until a full remodel or rebuild is available, if the thought of waiting a whole season or year is too much to bear.
- The life of your garage can be prolonged while you and your garage partner plan for a full makeover by doing maintenance and repairs such as installing a new door, replacing worn siding and roofing, or adding fresh paint and gutters to the exterior.
- Take Advantage Of The Weather And Give Yourself A Winter Garage Makeover.
- In the same way that many other home improvement tasks are best accomplished in the winter, garage remodelling is best accomplished in the same season.
- Once the temperature in your garage continuously drops below freezing, it will be closed to vehicle traffic other than entry and exit.
- A parka prevents you from doing yard work, servicing your car, or fiddling at your workbench.
- In other words, if you’re going to subject your garage to the mayhem that is a renovation job, you should do so when you have no pressing need to use the area.
- Making Room For Another CarRearranging your garage is a great way to free up some floor space.
- Garage Renovations in Time for SpringWinter may feel endless, but spring and warmer weather are just around the corner, and you need to be prepared.
- With a little TLC over the winter, your garage will be ready for action come spring.
- In need of a larger space to park your automobiles or set up your workshop?
- You can do all of this and more with a garage makeover.
- The Best Deals Are In The WinterSpending less on garage upgrades is a good idea at any time.
- Give Garage Designs of St. Louis a call if you want to find out how to maximise the potential of your garage.
- They are the trusted experts in the St. Louis area when it comes to garage restoration and organisation.
- They will even provide you with a no-cost assessment on the potential of your property.
- Don’t put off garage repairs or cleanup until the weather improves.
- Do it now while it’s cold outside and you’ll have a garage you can use all year long.
- Garage Renovation Ideas For Inspiration
- You can put a price tag on a renovation that’s as unique as you are.
- Others will appreciate the benefits of a dedicated media room or recording studio in their residence.
- Whatever your motivation for wanting to convert that poorly constructed box in which you keep your spare items and so raise the value of your property, here are some creative things you can do with it.
- Home OfficeWorking from home has several advantages, which is why many individuals and business owners choose to do it.
- Working from home can alleviate stress and save money on transportation costs.
- One of the difficulties of working from home is that there is often no physical separation between business and personal time.
- A home office is a convenient and speedy solution to this issue since it gives you a dedicated room to get work done and a designated area to leave completed tasks behind when you leave.
- You can deduct the amount of space in your house that you use for your main job from your taxes.
- It can be configured into a high-quality sound system, taking into account the specifics of the room.
- Perhaps you have always envisioned a private master bedroom, set apart from the rest of the house.
- Right now is the perfect time to transform your garage into a luxurious master bedroom.
- A home with a one-two power combination is a great investment and a great place to relax and recharge at the end of the day.
- Garages can be converted into in-law suites for a variety of reasons.
- Converting a garage into usable space may be the best solution.
- Play RoomYour kids will eventually need more space to play in.
- The garage can be transformed into a flexible playroom that can grow along with your children.
- It’s safe to shut yourself off from the rest of the house and enjoy some peace and quiet in your own room.
- Unlike the rest of your house, the garage has a large, broad, and wonderful door that may be opened to the outside world.
- The transformation of a garage into an interior front porch can be a productive and pleasurable use of the space.
- In order to make the most of the natural light and provide yourself with a blank slate, it is recommended that you insulate, drywall, and paint the inside walls.
- Converting a garage into a habitable area is less of a hassle if the garage is attached to the house.
- To generate additional income, convert your huge garage into a rental unit.
- The money you spend converting your garage is not wasted.
- Putting your automobile in the garage is a waste of space.
- You can save money on heating and cooling costs by reusing the ductwork from your main house in the garage.
- This is effective, particularly if your home has an efficient HVAC system.
- If it is not an option, then you should investigate different artificial heating and cooling systems.
- In the hot summer months, turn on the air conditioning in your room.
- Turn on a wood stove instead.
- A radiant floor heating system can also be installed directly onto an existing concrete floor.
- Before you put in any artificial heating or cooling, you should insulate the floor, walls, and ceiling.
- Organising The Electrical WiringsExpect a rise in your electric bill if you plan to turn your garage into a living space.
- Do not attempt to handle the wiring, switches, and outlets yourself; rather, seek the services of a qualified and insured electrician.
- A plumber can take care of the plumbing and water supply.
- You won’t need to instal plumbing if you just want to use the room as a bedroom or a lounge.
- Getting Building ApprovalEven though converting a garage is a very easy project, you will need a building permit before you begin.
- Putting up windows is a great first step towards transforming a garage into a usable living space.