Outgrowing your home but not ready to sell? Maybe you just don’t use the garage space enough? A nice gym, playroom, extra bedroom, or an office might sound nice.
A 2013 survey showed that 80% of American households have a garage or carport and only a fraction use it to park their vehicles. Whatever your situation, you might be asking yourself if you should convert a garage to living space?
If that is the case, here is everything you should be considering before taking the leap!
How To Convert a Garage To Living Space
The first thing to consider is how will you convert a garage to living space. Understanding the process will give you a better idea of what may lie ahead! Keep in mind any legal and zoning issues as well.
Windows
Some garages have them and some do not. However, if you are going to be spending a lot of time in this area, you may want to add windows. You’ll want the natural light and the air otherwise, you will be feeling a little cramped up.
Flooring
That unsightly garage flooring will need to be dealt with. There are beautiful options for a concrete coating that will add a wow factor to your new space. This will give the new area not only a hint of style but also the functionality.
With a concrete coating, you can pick a variety of color options. It’s easy to find one that fits your style.
Ceiling
You’ll want adequate space for walking around and living. That means you’ll probably want at least 7 1/2 feet of height. Some garages are built lower than the home, you may want to raise the flooring in this case.
Heating
Keeping this new space a cozy temperature will ensure that you enjoy your time. Adding heating and cooling to the area is a must in those harsh temperature months.
Walls
Speaking of temperatures, you’ll want to insulate your walls since they likely aren’t already. In addition, most garages will need a fresh set of paint.
Lighting
There needs to be a least one wall controlled light switch. Adding some nicer light fixtures will go a long way in terms of aesthetics.
Electrical
Make sure your outlets meet the standards for living areas. Your garage remodel will need outlets that are correctly spaced.
Garage Door
If you decide not to replace the door with a wall, you need to insulate it. You don’t want anything creeping into your nice new living space.
Advantages
Now that you understand some of the things you need to take care of to get the job done, what are the advantages to all this hard work?
- Usually cheaper than adding on
- Keeps your yard space
- Could boost property value
- Don’t need to move to get more space
Disadvantages
Of course, there are some disadvantages as well. They might be:
- Loss of parking space
- Some buyers may prefer the garage
- Loss of storage
- Your garage may be in very rough condition making it more difficult
Garage With Living Space
If you decide to convert a garage to living space, be sure to ask for help from the experts. Doing work like this when it comes to legal and zoning issues needs to be completed in the correct manner for safety.
We’re sure that your garage remodel will go off without a hitch and if you need help with your new garage flooring, contact us for more information!