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What to Consider Before Converting a Garage

What to Consider Before Converting a Garage

A garage is a significant asset in every house. This is where you store all your things. From backyard tools to car cleaning equipment and bicycles to spare parts, having a garage makes storing these items easy.

But what if you wanted to convert a garage into something else, like an office or a gym? This is where you need to look at the different factors that will come into play and help you determine whether it is a good idea.

Converting your garage is an excellent way to add space and value to your property. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t use their garage to its full potential – and as a result, they’re missing out on valuable living space.

Converting your garage is an affordable way to increase your living space and add value to your property. If you’re considering converting your garage, we’ve included a list of reasons and a few exciting tips.

Things to Consider Before Converting a Garage

1. Type of Garage Conversion

There are many different types of garage conversions that you can choose from. This can depend on your garage type, the size of your house, and how much money you want to spend.

The most popular types of garage conversions include:

  • Garage conversion into storage space
  • Garage conversion into extra bedrooms
  • Garage conversion into an office
  • The garage converted into a playroom

2. Cost

Converting a garage depends on your home’s size and type, but virtually every homeowner will have to shell out money for the work. On average, garage conversion costs can range from £3,000 to £19,000, depending on the conversion you’re looking for, your location, and how much work needs to be done during the project. 

Suppose you’re converting an attached garage near your home and sharing a wall with one or two rooms. In that case, it could cost significantly less than if you were converting a detached garage located far away from your home or if you were converting multiple garages into one ample space.

3. Does Convert a Garage Add Value to Your Home?

Before you start the conversion process, you’ll need to assess whether converting your garage is worth it. A lot of value can be gained from having a garage, but many costs are also involved with restoring it.

Considering converting your garage, you must view all the options and their potential benefits and pitfalls. The first question you should ask yourself is: Does converting a garage add value to your home?

If yes, you can feel confident that your garage conversion will be a significant investment. On the other hand, if the answer is no, you may want to reconsider whether or not it’s worth it.

4. Is a Permit Required to Convert a Garage? 

Depending on how you plan to change the use of your garage, you will more than likely need to acquire some permits from your local Zoning Department before beginning any conversion work. Again, this process can vary depending on where you live, so it’s best to contact them directly for more information. 

In some cases, you may need the help of an architect to provide a proposed floor plan for your project when applying for a permit. By doing this, you are guaranteed that your goals will meet any building codes and ordinances that are in place for living spaces in your area.

These codes usually include things such as the minimum number of windows required, the number and placement of outlets, the height of the ceiling, and so on.

The cost of a garage conversion permit can vary, but you can expect to pay an average of between £1,000 and £1,500. 

5. Keeping Living and Working Areas Separate

A garage conversion can be a great and helpful way to create a separate work area in your home without breaking the bank or taking up any extra space in your yard. By emptying your garage, you can get a better sense of the size of the area and what kind of potential it has to be turned into a comfortable and practical office.

Additionally, since a garage conversion typically requires less building work than constructing an entirely new extension, it will likely be cheaper overall. Plus, since it won’t eat into your garden or yard space, you won’t have to worry about sacrificing any outdoor areas.

6. Plan Heating, Plumbing, and Electrics in Early 

One of the most important things you need to do is a plan for heating, plumbing, and electricity early on. For example, if you want to use your garage as an extension of your home, it needs heating, ventilation, and lighting.

This means that you’ll need a separate heating system for the space. You’ll also have to ensure enough room for pipes and cables to convert the area into an office.

7. Water Management for Your Garage Conversion

To convert a garage into usable space, you must ensure that water management is done correctly. The last thing you want is for water to leak into your house and cause extensive damage. Therefore, ensure adequate drainage for any water that might enter the area. You can also install a subfloor drainage system if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Garage conversions have become a popular way to increase the living space in a home without having to buy a new property or use up any of your lands. The unique style of a converted garage can also add a lot of value to your property if you decide to sell your home in the future. If you are considering converting, we hope you can use this information to help make your decision.

About the author

Guest Author

I share technology, business, and personal development insights as a guest author. With a background in computer science and tech industry experience, I offer practical tips and actionable advice to enhance skills and achieve goals. Whether it's optimizing productivity, improving mental health, or navigating the digital world, I'm committed to helping others succeed. When not writing, I explore new technologies, read about industry developments, or enjoy the outdoors.

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