If your home does not already have a garage, there are many benefits of adding one. There are practical benefits relating to storage and additional living space.
There are the security benefits of having somewhere to park your car that isn’t on the street.
There are also long-term cost benefits that you may not have considered. How much does a finished garage add to home value, for example?
There is plenty of evidence to suggest that when you add a garage to your home, the value of your home increases.
With that in mind, let’s walk through the exact process of adding a garage to your home so that you can reap the benefits.
Table of Contents
1. Check with the Authorities Beforehand
Before asking how to add an attached garage to a house, you first need to ask whether it is possible.
In many parts of the US, you will need planning permission from local authorities before you build.
Your garage will likely need to meet certain standards and safety requirements in order for you to get permission to build.
You may even be required to conduct a land survey before building. Do this first before spending any time and money on your garage.
2. Start Measuring and Designing Your Garage
Next up, it’s time to get creative and begin measuring the garage space and putting your design together. All of the size dimensions for your garage will need to be meticulously calculated before you order materials.
One wrong measurement could derail the whole project. Make sure to use authoritative resources such as this expert guide on garage door sizes, so you know exactly what to expect.
Once you have your measurements, you can focus on building a beautiful garage that compliments your home.
3. Order Materials for Your Garage
The next step is to order all of the necessary materials for your garage. This will include wallboards, drywall, sealants, tools, and more. You might be considering how to add plumbing to a garage.
If so, you will also need to order all of the plumbing materials yourself. You will need to order the doors, windows, and subpanels, as well as any security features you might wish to add.
Leave no stone unturned when drawing up your shopping list, as missing materials will cause major delays.
4. Hire Subcontractors and Add a Garage
Now you’re finally ready to build your garage. The cost to add a garage varies, but it is indisputable that the biggest cost is the hiring of subcontractors.
Of course, you can build as much o your garage yourself as possible to keep costs down, but some jobs will very much require a professional.
You will likely need to hire a subcontractor to laid the foundations and pour the concrete. Similarly, plumbing, electrical wiring, and landscaping will all require the help of professionals.
5. Add the Finishing Touches
Finally, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your garage! You will need to consider how to add a subpanel in garage walls, for example. Then you can add a fresh coat of paint and some trim.
You can also add a security alarm, interior decorations, and furniture, to name just a few. Don’t be afraid to be bold, and do what you want to make your garage feel like your own unique creation.
Your Home DIY Tips, Right Here
Once you add a garage to your home, you’ll feel like there are no limits to the DIY home improvements you are capable of.
For daily inspiration and expert advice, make sure to consult our DIY Guides for all of the resources you need to make your home your own.
