Add a garage to your home

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If you live in a home without a garage, you may have to deal with the problem of storing your car safely. The addition of a garage to your house can be very appealing if you also consider the added benefits of having room to store other large items and eliminating the dash between your house and your car in bad weather. Of course, this will only be possible if you have space on your lot for a garage addition. If you do, take these other factors into consideration before you proceed.

Zoning bylaws and building codes govern what you can build on your property, where and how. Bylaws govern distance from property lines and other buildings, the amount of your lot you can cover with buildings, and overall size, width, and height restrictions. Your local planning department is the first place to visit to find out what you can and can't do on your lot.

Location is mainly determined by whether the garage will be freestanding or attached to the house. Attaching the garage to the house is usually the least expensive choice unless it entails major home renovation or floor plan changes. A garage that is a separate building might be easier to build but will generally cost more. Using a breezeway to connect the house to the garage can provide shelter from the weather and act as a mud room. Note that you might also have to change the location of your driveway or make it wider, which adds further costs to the project.

Size is largely affected by what you can legally put on your lot, but if you have enough room, you will need to decide whether you want a one-car, two-car, or even three-car garage. Today's one-car garages are generally no smaller than 14 feet by 20 feet. Even if there is only room for a one-car garage, you will want to include space for extra storage, especially for gardening and sports equipment.

It's important that your new garage be well designed so that it fits nicely on the lot and integrates successfully with your house. Consider having a professional design your garage, so that it is as attractive as the house it is attached to. A designer can also help you to choose finishes such as automatic garage doors and storage units.

Choose your contractor wisely. Talk with several and get written estimates. Always check for references. Reply! can provide you with a list of qualified contractors in your area.

The addition of a garage to your home provides you with secure storage for your car, garden, and sports equipment. It will also increase the value of your home. If you have the space and the money, adding a garage to your home can be a great investment.