Garage Conversion Ideas
If you need more living space and you think a garage makeover is the solution, here are 5 Questions you need to think about before you begin converting your garage:
1. When is converting your garage to a room a good option?
A garage remodel is the right option for you if:
- The new living space allows for patio doors or an additional entrance where the overhead door used to be. If not, then the new wall will need to blend into the current home exterior. (You don’t want to create a room that looks like it used to be a garage.)
- You have considered the cost of heating and cooling the new room. Your current HVAC system may support an additional room. If so, you can expand the ventilation to cover the renovation. If not, the system may need to be upgraded or an independent system can be purchased to provide temperature control in the new room.
- Plumbing is accessible if you want to include a bathroom or kitchenette. If an in-law suite or en suite bedroom is your vision, you’ll need plumbing advice regarding adding plumbing lines to the project.
- Parking and storage are available elsewhere. Eliminating a garage means you need another option for parking (and storage space for lawn mower, tools, and other house and garden equipment usually stored in the garage.)
2. Is a permit required for a garage conversion?
Check to determine if you will need building permits by contacting your city’s zoning department. You may need to submit an architect’s plan when applying for a permit. Building codes may dictate the number of windows, exits, ceiling height, number of electrical outlets, and other factors. Your contractor can help you with these issues and whether you’ll need to apply for a variance. Permits range in cost, but often are between $1,000 and $1,500 – more if a variance is needed.
Some city ordinances or home owner associations require minimum covered parking which could prevent you from converting your garage.
3. What type of room can converting your garage become?
As long as you comply with building codes, you can create a living space that is a:
- Playroom
- Studio apartment or in-law suite
- Bedroom
- Art studio
- Office
- Family room
- Man cave or She shed
Here are a few (43!) more ideas you can consider for converting your garage into an extra living space.
4. Does a garage conversion add value to the home?
A garage conversion can add value, providing that all permits and building codes have been secured and followed properly. The value depends on the type of room and how seamless the conversion is. If the project eliminated necessary parking and storage, then the value of the home may be diminished.
5. What options do you have if a converting your garage is not in your budget?
The cost of a garage conversion varies on the size of the garage and the type of room being constructed. A renovation expert can give you some ballpark figures after an initial consultation. If it turns out, a garage makeover is not in the cards, you might consider a basement remodel or an attic conversion.
Contact A.W. Puma for a consultation to determine whether converting your garage is the best way to accomplish your goals cost effectively while maintaining the value of your home.
