Garage Conversion Guide
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This is a guide to converting your garage. Itoutlines the many different uses that your spare garage space can be used for such as a study or an extra bedroom, as well as how to go about converting your garage.
There are many benefits to converting your unused garage space into another room, particularly if you have a small house and require the extra space. With the right expertise, your garage can be converted into almost anything, be it a bedroom, a family room, a room primarily used for entertainment purposes or your own private office.
Conversion is also ideal if you wish to rent this particular room. Converting a garage into an extra bedroom or living space could provide you extra yearly income, as you can rent it to students or tourists.
Since many people actually park their cars in their driveway instead of their garage, conversion is almost always an option. Many garages only serve the function of a tool-shed, and there is a lot of potential space which could be put to better use. The conversion process is better than building an extra room in your home, as it will cost a lot less. The livable space is increased for little extra cost, and you could end up with an extra room useful for a variety of purposes.
A garage already has all the existing infrastructure, which means foundations, roof and walls are already built, so the conversion process is usually simple. Some aspects, like plumbing and heating, require the attention of experts, but for the most part it is just a matter of cleaning up your garage and adding the extra furniture which you need. For extensions, builders are obviously required but often the space already provided by the garage is large enough for another room.
Ideas for your Extra Room
You can convert your garage into any room you deem useful, and presumably one which you lack in your current home. Conversion is also ideal for quiet spaces, like an office or a personal studio.
When converting your garage into an entertainment room you will need extra plug outlets for electricity. Hire a professional to do this job as it is complex and dangerous to do it yourself. Typically such a room would include a TV in the centre, game consoles, music and a sitting area. Rooms which are converted into mini-cinemas will need proper insulation because of the noise.
A family room will include comfortable surroundings, and the area should be adequately warm. There are many trusted companies which provide services for both electricity and heating installation, and the costs are reasonable. Aside from providing warmth and adequate flooring, which can be a parquet floor or less expensive PVC, you will also want to provide a sitting area for your family. For young kids, you can include a corner dedicated to fun activities and games.
A studio should have good lighting and provide peace and quiet as a working area. Furniture will likely include a desk and a sitting area, but since this room is designed for one person there isn't much you need aesthetically or functionally.
In the case of a home office, all the files, desks and furniture will be a necessary addition. Again, installing electricity will be essential for an office conversion, since there will likely be computers and similar equipment present in the area.
These are just some ideas for converting your garage into a useful space. Always consider advice from a professional before deciding which option you want to go with.
Aspects to Consider
The first thing to do for converting your garage is to check up on local building regulations, and obtain a permit if one is needed. The next thing you'll want to consider is what you will want to convert the garage space into. Make a note of what type of changes and modifications will need to take place and consider hiring a builder or private contractor for any complicated changes.
Insulation for your new room is also important, particularly during the winter months but also due to potential noise. Having your room correctly insulated is particularly useful in the case of garages converted into family rooms, or a games room for the children. Take note of the type of insulation which you choose, and make sure it has a high "R" value.
Plumbing and flooring are two further aspects to consider, and they are incredibly important to ensure your room remains trouble-free in the future. Most properties have garages built slightly at a slant, due to rain and drainage purposes. Ask your trusted construction company how much it will cost to level the floor, and if it is absolutely necessary.
Plumbing is only an issue if you are planning to add features which require a sink or a bathroom in your converted room. In such cases, conversion can be more lengthy and complicated.
After planning for all these aspects, as well as any windows/doors which you may want to include, you can finally concentrate on furniture and aesthetics. If you are the DIY type, it is just a matter of purchasing the type of furniture you deem adequate for your room. Painting and decorating the room yourself isn't difficult, and it will save you a lot of money.
Getting Started
To kick off your garage conversion project, there are two sets of people that you should be speaking with.
Firstly, if you're after a substantial conversion you should speak with an Architect or Draftsman to help you put together your plans and drawings.
Secondly, to complete the project you require a good local builder that you can trust to work with you on this project. The best place to find these good local builders is Service Central.
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I love the idea of turning a garage into an entertainment area for the family. This is such a creative use of a traditionally plain space. Great guide!
over a year ago by Angie @ Garage Builders
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