Did you know that you can add a garage to your house? It’s a great way to increase the value of your home, and it can be done fairly cheaply. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to add a garage to a house, step by step. We’ll also give you some tips on choosing the right garage for your home. So read on for all the information you need!
Summary: Adding a garage to a house adds value and provides additional storage space for cars, tools, and equipment. Before starting, it is important to research local building codes and obtain any necessary permits. Once the location is determined and the foundation is laid, the walls, roof, and doors can be installed by a professional or experienced DIYer.
What Causes a Garage to be Needed
People add a garage to their homes mainly because of the extra space. A garage can provide a place to park your car, store your belongings, or even set up a workshop. A garage can also protect your car from the elements if you live in an area with severe weather conditions.
Another reason people add a garage to their home is for the increased value it can bring. A well-built garage can add up to 20% to the value of your home, so it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking to sell in the future.
Additionally, a garage can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. The other benefits of a garage are that it can provide extra security for your home and help keep your energy bills down in the winter by providing insulation. Lastly, a garage can be a great place to host parties or other events.
Types of Garages to a House
There are many different types of garages that you can add to your home. The most common type is the attached garage, which is built onto the side or back of your house. An attached garage is the most convenient option, as you’ll be able to access your car from your home easily.
Another popular option is the detached garage. A detached garage is a standalone structure, usually in the driveway or backyard. Detached garages are a great option if you’re looking for extra security for your car, as they can’t be easily broken into.
There are also many different sizes of garages to choose from. If you only have one car, then a single-car garage will suffice. However, if you have multiple cars or need extra space for storage, then a two- or three-car garage would be a better option. Additionally, you can also choose from a variety of different styles, such as traditional, modern, or even country.
Another important consideration is the material that your garage is made from. The most common materials are wood, steel, and concrete. Wood is the most affordable option but also the least durable. Steel is more expensive but more durable and has a longer lifespan. Concrete is the most expensive but also the most durable and has a lifetime warranty.
Step by Step How to Add a Garage to a House
1. Choose the Right Location
The first step in how to add a garage to a house is to choose the right location. You’ll want to consider factors such as the size of your lot, the layout of your home, and the amount of traffic in your neighborhood.
Additionally, you’ll need to ensure that there’s enough space for the garage and that it meets all the setback requirements. Try to choose a location close to your home so it’s easy to access. Avoid placing the garage too close to the street, as this can make parking more difficult.
2. Obtain the Necessary Permits
Once you’ve chosen the location for your garage, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits. The process for obtaining a permit will vary depending on your municipality, but it generally involves submitting a site plan and paying a fee.
You can usually find the forms you need online or at your local planning department. Try to submit your application as soon as possible, as the process can take several weeks. Avoid starting any construction work without a permit, as this can result in hefty fines.
3. Clear the Land
After you’ve obtained the permits, you’ll need to clear the land where the garage will be built. This may involve removing trees, shrubs, and other obstacles. You’ll also need to level the land so that it’s ready for construction. Clear the land yourself to save money, or hire a professional landscaping company to do it for you.
4. Excavate the Area
The next step is excavating where the garage will be built. This involves digging a hole for the foundation and preparing the site for construction. Excavating the area yourself can save you money, firstly by renting the necessary equipment and secondly, by doing the work yourself.
However, excavating can be difficult and dangerous, so hiring a professional is best if you’re not experienced. Try to excavate the area at least two weeks before construction is set to begin.
5. Install the Footings
The footings are the foundation of your garage. They’re typically made from concrete and must be at least 18 inches deep. The depth of the footings will depend on the soil conditions and the size of your garage.
You’ll need to dig a trench around the garage’s perimeter to install the footings. Then, mix the concrete and pour it into the trench. Be sure to compact the concrete so that it sets properly. Avoid walking on the footings until they’ve had a chance to cure.
6. Build the Walls
After the footings have cured, you can begin to build the walls. The type of material you use for the walls will depend on the style of garage you’re building.
You will use lumber and sheathing for a traditional wooden frame garage for the walls. You will use metal studs if you’re building a metal frame garage. First, attach the bottom plate to the floor to build the walls using nails or screws. Then, stand the studs up one at a time and nail or screw them into the bottom and top plates.
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Make sure to space the studs evenly so that the walls are strong. Once all of the studs are in place, you can add the sheathing. For a wooden frame garage, use plywood or OSB board. Nail or screw the sheathing to the studs, making sure to overlap the seams. For a metal frame garage, use metal panels. Attach the panels to the studs using screws or bolts.
7. Install the Roof
The roof is one of the most important parts of your garage, as it protects your car and your belongings from the elements. When choosing a roof, consider the climate in your area and the type of garage you’re building. A pitched roof is a good option for a traditional wooden frame garage. You can choose shingles, metal, or tiles for the roofing material.
You can choose corrugated metal panels or standing seam panels for a metal frame garage. To install the roof, first, build the trusses or rafters and then attach them to the top plates of the walls. Then, add the roofing material, starting at the bottom and working your way up. Be sure to overlap the seams and seal them with tar or caulk.
8. Add the Finishing Touches
Once the roof is installed, you can add the finishing touches to your garage. This includes adding siding, trim, doors, and windows. The type of siding you choose will depend on the style of garage you’re building. You can choose wood, vinyl, or brick siding for a traditional wooden frame garage.
For a metal frame garage, you can choose metal panels or siding. First, attach the bottom course to the wall to install the siding using screws or nails. Then, work your way up, overlapping the seams as you go. To finish the garage, add trim around the doors and windows and install a garage door.
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How Much Does It Cost to Add a Garage to a House?
The cost of adding a garage to your home will depend on the size of the garage, the materials you use, and whether you hire a professional to help with the project.
Expect to pay anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 for a basic garage. If you want a more upscale garage, the cost could be as high as $50,000. Contact a local contractor or garage builder to estimate the cost of adding a garage to your home.
How Long Does It Take to Add a Garage to a House?
The amount of time it takes to add a garage to your home will depend on the size and complexity of the project. A basic garage can be built in a few weeks. A more complex garage could take several months to complete. If you’re hiring a professional to help with the project, be sure to ask about the timeline and whether any delays could impact the completion date.
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Conclusion
So there you have it, a complete guide on how to add a garage to a house. With careful planning and execution, you can build the perfect garage to protect your car and your belongings. We hope this guide has been helpful. Good luck with your project!
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