Often overlooked, a garage serves multiple roles within your home. It can be transformed into additional living space, a functional working area, or even rented out, contributing to an increase in your property’s value. While it may be a desirable feature for your residence, it is fundamentally a necessity for safeguarding your car from the elements.
If you own a car, adding a garage to your property is crucial. Even if you part ways with your vehicle, your garage remains versatile for various uses. Yet, prior to initiating the process of constructing a garage, it is wise to consider several factors. This article will discuss key points to bear in mind when building a garage.
1. Intended Use
Most folks consider putting up a garage because they crave a spot to safely stash their ride, shielding it from unpredictable weather. If that’s the goal, leaning towards an attached garage might be a smart move. However, if you will use your garage for a different purpose, say a workspace, then a metal workshop garage separate from your house will serve you better. Most modern metal carports and garages can hold multiple vehicles depending on your needs and still serve other purposes. Determining the purpose of a garage will help you understand the most suitable design.
It is recommended that you have a plan even before construction begins. You can integrate wall storage to save as much space as possible if you need extra storage space. Wall panels, shelves, and cabinets will help you save valuable floor space while ensuring you have a place to store other items.
2. Zoning Laws
Every state has different zoning laws that determine whether you can build a garage on your property without a permit and recommend specific sizes. Make sure you check with the local authorities to understand the laws that govern garage planning and building. In some states, there are restrictions for building a garage on homes that didn’t originally have one. It’s crucial to avoid violating these regulations as there could be substantial fines involved.
It’s advisable to consult with an expert to gain a clear understanding of the zoning laws before proceeding. Additionally, prior to initiating the garage construction, ensure you submit your building plans to the local authorities. The site plan should clearly show the locations of any current buildings, lot coverage, and any setbacks from lot lines. It’s important that you understand the specific zoning codes and how your plans meet the requirements.
3. Car Size
The overall size of your garage will depend on the size and number of cars. Getting a grasp on this will influence the roof height and the necessary Garage storage capacity. For instance, if you own an SUV or a truck and require storage for items like bikes or kayaks, your space needs will be greater compared to someone with just a sedan. Leave extra space so you can move around freely without stumbling on objects.
Your car is actually bigger than you think. Even a small hatchback can be longer than 13 feet and an open car door can span as much as 3 feet. When you add these numbers up, factoring in the wall storage, you need a garage that is about 36 feet wide for a single car garage.
4. Ventilation
Ventilation often gets overlooked by many when it comes to garages. While it’s true that you can open the door before starting the car, it’s important to realize that a running vehicle releases harmful gasses that can have negative effects on your health.
To address this, it’s vital to ensure adequate ventilation, allowing the toxins to disperse from the garage. Ventilation becomes even more crucial if there’s a potential for changing the garage’s purpose in the future or using it as a workshop. Although an AC unit might appear like a luxury initially, it can prove useful if you need extra space or decide to rent out the garage for additional income.
5. Design
It’s crucial for the garage to harmonize with the overall style of your home. Choose a garage door that seamlessly integrates with the property’s aesthetic, offering various options such as wooden doors and metallic choices. If your budget permits, consider adding luxuries like epoxy flooring. It will help enhance attractiveness and guarantee durability. Factor in the garage’s maintenance costs, operational gaps, and cleaning needs. Personalize the space as desired to guarantee both comfort and functionality.
Take into account the influence of harsh weather conditions on your design. Install insulation and weather stripping around doors and windows, and create an organized area for winter gear storage. This ensures you won’t have to search through numerous items to find a shovel on a dark winter morning.
Endnote
Building a garage not only offers extra space but also enhances your home’s value. Given its substantial investment, these five factors should guide you to ensure a smooth execution. It’s imperative to engage professional contractors to ensure top-notch quality throughout the process.
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