Garages are a vital part of your home because they offer vehicle protection, secure storage space and can even serve as a workshop or home gym. Traditionally, garages were not considered a livable space. Gone are the days garages were used to simply house vehicles, modern garages have evolved.
Not all homes have garages, and not every homeowner needs a garage (such as people who don’t own a car and don’t need extra storage space). But for many, a garage is a must-have necessity to store vehicles and belongings. Many homeowners opt to transform their garage to maximize their home’s square footage or improve its functionality.
Benefits Of A Garage
Garages have evolved to serve various purposes, catering to the specific needs of homeowners. Irrespective of their intended function, garages provide several advantages and benefits to homeowners.
Vehicle Protection
Extreme weather conditions can take a toll on your vehicle(s). Your garage can protect your car by shielding it from the elements. In addition, many car insurance policies offer discounts to policy owners who store their vehicles in a garage. A garage will also protect your car from vandalism, dents, scratches and dings that can happen when the car is exposed and/or on the street.
Security
A secured garage offers multiple advantages, such as preventing vehicle theft (particularly for those who park on the street) and providing convenient access to your car inside the garage.
Convenience
If you've ever felt the frustration of endlessly searching for a parking spot, you know the value of having a dedicated space for your vehicle. A garage provides not only convenience but also protection from harsh weather conditions, eliminating the need to remove snow or ice from your vehicle. Additionally, it offers the advantage of being in close proximity when unloading groceries or carrying out other tasks.
Safety
A garage is the perfect place to safely store tools and supplies that can potentially cause injury or harm to your children or pets. In order to ensure the safety of your home and family, the following items should never be stored in your garage:
Paint (extreme temperatures can ruin it)
Propane (a spark could ignite the fumes)
Food (a magnet for cockroaches, ants, mice, etc.)
Pet Food (skunks, racoons etc. will smell it and try to get in)
Storage
A garage can add storage space to keep off-season items, bulky equipment or items you don’t want in your home. Clever storage solutions can provide vertical space to maximize storage potential and there are a variety of storage solutions available:
Shelving
Ceiling Racks
Pegboards
Cabinets
Wall/Bike Racks
Value
Most of today’s real estate buyers require the home to have a garage. Not having a garage can deter potential buyers. A garage that enhances and blends in with the style of a home is best in terms of value.
Curb Appeal
Since vehicles can be parked inside the garage, fewer vehicles will enhance your home’s appearance. Moreover, a beautifully designed garage can enhance and complement your home’s design and style.
Garages
Whether you are looking for a full garage conversion or building a new garage, we can help you take your garage to the next level.
All garages fall into one of two categories:
Attached
An attached garage is a structural component of the home and is generally built when the home is being constructed and is appealing because it will not increase the size of a property’s lot.
Attached garages are often insulated in order to maintain and regulate the home’s interior temperature (cold air cannot enter the home and warm air is able to stay in). In addition, a fire door between the house and the garage can be installed to help keep your family and possessions safe in the event of a fire or emergency situation.
Many homeowners with internal garages opt for a full garage renovation in order to create an additional living/working space or to expand their existing living space to the ground floor.
Pros:
Convenience (access to your home)
Versatility (can be used for many different purposes)
Weather Protection
Security
Potential Energy Savings (because of the insulation)
Curb Appeal
Storage
Cons:
Noise (especially if garage in converted into a workshop)
Security
Home Layout constraints
Higher Fire Risk (Due to chemicals or vehicles stored in garage)
Air Quality Issues
Detached
As the name implies, a detached garage is a separate structure (not attached to the home). Numerous homeowners opt to build a detached garage to gain extra space or take advantage of the various benefits it offers.
A detached garage is often built close to the home and can be built horizontally and/or vertically. Because it is a separate structure, it’s important to ensure it is constructed properly so that it can withstand heavy winds and extreme weather conditions.
Pros:
Versatility (can be built anywhere on your property )
Storage
Protection (from the elements)
Noise Mitigation (since the garage is detached from the home)
Ability to match your home (such as exterior siding)
Can add to living space
Cons:
Curb Appeal
Accessibility (must leave the house to access the garage)
Separate Electric and Heat
Cost of construction
If you are looking to build a new home or want to have a garage built on your property, it’s important to understand the options that are available and what would work best for your home and your budget. Even if you aren’t looking for a full garage renovation, minor updates (such as a new garage door) can really make a big difference.
Types Of Garages
Whether you want to add a new garage to your home or want to renovate your existing garage, the following information is intended to help you make an informed decision.
Barn Garage
A form of detached garage, a barn garage features a loft space as well as ground floor space. Because this type of garage can serve so many different purposes, many homeowners install a side door to prevent having to open and close the larger barn garage door all the time.
A barn garage is a great option if you have a large plot of land and you don’t want to sacrifice storage space. Barn garages have surged in popularity because they can be built to match or enhance the home for a cohesive, clean look.
Carport Garage
Technically, a carport isn’t a garage, but we are including it because it serves the same purpose. When it comes to protecting vehicles, a carport can provide the most basic of functions. Essentially a partially covered structure that is open on all sides, the structure is typically built with sturdy corner posts that support a roof. A carport can also be attached to one of the home’s exterior walls for stability and convenience.
Carriage (Coach) House Garage
Before the invention of the car, carriage houses were used to store horse carts. Later, carriage houses were converted into a space to store vehicles. Oftentimes the extra vertical space was converted into an apartment or added living space.
Garage With Living Space/ Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)/Granny Flat
Many homeowners looking to add vertical space on a limited budget opt to have an apartment built on top of an existing two-car garage. The living space can be above the garage, or can be constructed as a hybrid living space/garage and can include windows, decorative elements, architectural details, vaulted ceilings etc. so it is an economical option for someone looking to expand their living space or a private area to work/relax. Since the garage is a structural component of a home, it is very important that it comply with all local building codes.
Garage With Car Lift
For those looking to maximize space, car lifts are increasing in popularity, because the car lift takes advantage of vertical space for another vehicle and/or storage.
Portico Garage (Breezeway)
A portico garage is a separate structure that is constructed to provide a covered area between a home and a detached garage. The portico is typically attached to one of the home’s exterior walls for accessibility. Some homeowners opt to add walls with climate control to the portico for additional protection from the elements and for added security.
RV-Garage (Motorport)
An RV garage is specifically constructed to protect oversize vehicles such as RVs, boats, trucks etc., so it’s much taller, wider and deeper than most other types of garages.
Workshop Garage
A workshop garage is a great option for homeowners looking for a dedicated space for work or DIY hobbies. This type of garage has surged in popularity because it can serve a variety of purposes such as:
Workshop / Mechanic shop
Hobby/Arts and Crafts Space
Home Gym/Fitness Room
Home Office
Apartment
Rehearsal Studio
“Man Cave”
If you are looking to convert your garage into a workspace, it’s important to ensure that it has a power source and lighting. Shelving and creative storage solutions are typically added for organization and to maximize space. The space can also be used to store garden equipment, bikes, off-season equipment etc.
Garage Layouts And Sizes
Garages can also be categorized according to size and how many vehicles it can accommodate. If you’ve ever scraped the side of your car along your garage door frame, you know that size matters. Choosing the size and layout of your garage can be confusing for some people. Regardless, the layout should be able to offer the features you are looking for in a garage.
One-Car (Single Bay) Garage
The smallest of garages, a single bay garage can accommodate a single vehicle with limited space for other storage. Often, single bay garages are primarily used for storing bikes, tools, lawn equipment and out-of-season items. The limited space often results in vehicles being parked in the driveway.
Two-Car (Double Width) Garage
As the name suggests, this garage layout is built to fit two vehicles parked side-by-side. Many homeowners use a portion of the garage for storage or a combination of storage/workspace/parking.
Two-Car (Double Length/Tandem) Garage
Long and narrow, a double length garage is built so that two vehicles can fit one behind the other. Most use the back space for storage because of the inconvenience of having one car blocked. This layout is ideal for anyone looking for storage space on a narrow plot where a double width garage is too wide.
Three-Car Garage
With three vehicle bays, this layout is great for anyone looking for vehicle protection and/or storage space. The garage doors can be configured based on personal preference or intended use.
Four-Car Garage
This garage layout is found on large, grandiose homes or those of serious car collectors. The large size offers a variety of garage door configurations for each vehicle bay. This type of garage is typically customized.
The Following Table Contains The Average Dimensions Of The Various Garage Layouts:
Layout
Garage Doors
Garage Width
Garage Depth
Garage Door Width
One-Car Garage
1 door
12’
20’
9’
Two-Car Garage
1 door
18-20’
20’
16’
Two-Car Garage
2 door
18-20’
20’
9’ each
Three-Car Garage
1 door
31’
20’
9’ and 16'
Three-Car Garage
3 doors
31’
20’
9’ each
Four-Car Garage
2 doors
48’
20’
16’ each
Four-Car Garage
3 doors
48’
20’
9’(2) and 16'
Four-Car Garage
4 doors
48’
20’
9’ each
*The actual sizes and dimensions are generally accurate but may vary slightly based on particular garage design preferences
Garage Door Materials
It’s no secret that your garage doors impact your home’s curb appeal. Something as simple as replacing your garage door can have a huge impact. Garage doors are purposefully designed to endure varying weather conditions and constant daily usage throughout the year.
Composite (Faux) Wood
Composite garage doors are manufactured from recycled wood and plastic fibers. They are produced to look like real wood, at a fraction of the cost.
Fiberglass
Like vinyl, fiberglass is a durable garage door material. The door is manufactured with two sheets of fiberglass (which won’t rust) and filled with polyurethane for insulation.
Polyethylene Aluminum
This is a great option for homeowners on a budget. Polyethylene aluminum garage doors are lightweight, which makes them prone to dents.
Steel
Steel garage doors contain two layers of galvanized steel which provide long-lasting resilience and durability.
Vinyl
Vinyl is durable, easy to clean and isn’t prone to damage, which makes it a popular garage door material for homes with small children.
Wood
Wooden garage doors offer a classic and customizable look, with the advantage of providing good insulation and durability. However, they require regular maintenance and can be more expensive than other materials. Properly maintained wooden doors can last for many years and add a touch of natural beauty to a home's exterior.
Garage Orientations
Depending on where you live and the type of home you own, there are several ways your garage can be constructed. The decision to build/renovate an attached or detached garage is really dependent on other homes in your area. In short, your neighborhood is a good indication of what you can consider. In addition, your neighbors who have completed a garage project can be a great source of advice/information.
Front Facing
90-degree Inward Facing
Below the House
Side of House
Garage Roofing
In order to function properly, all garages must have a roof. As with your home, there are a wide variety of roofing options available:
Asphalt Shingles
Wood Shingles
Composite Shingles
Metal
Slate
Flat Roofing
Garage Flooring
Selecting the ideal flooring for your garage poses distinct challenges. As a high-traffic area exposed to heavy loads, durability and proper construction are vital for the garage floor. Before proceeding, check local regulations and potential HOA restrictions, as construction may necessitate permits. Understanding these limitations ensures a smooth and compliant garage flooring project.
Polished Concrete Flooring
Because of its low maintenance, strength and durability, polished concrete is one of the most popular garage flooring options. Cost-effective and stain-resistant, polished concrete can withstand heavy weight and foot traffic.
Painted Concrete Flooring
Many homeowners opt to paint their concrete garage floor to cover any stains that may have accumulated. Both epoxy paint and latex acrylic paint are used, but epoxy paint adheres to concrete much better, is durable and damage resistant.
Epoxy Floor Coating
Not to be confused with epoxy paint, epoxy coating is a compound made of a polymer hardener and an epoxy resin. When mixed, the result is a hardened, long-lasting, very durable coating. Some manufacturers add UV inhibitors, adhesion promoters or other additives to make it suitable for various garage floor applications.
Self-Leveling Epoxy:
As the name suggests, self-leveling epoxy coating smooths out bumps, imperfections or gradients in the floor when applied.
Mortar Epoxy:
Considered the strongest among all epoxy floor coatings, mortar is typically used in industrial settings, but can also be used to fill cracks in floors before applying another epoxy coating.
Graveled Epoxy:
Generally used as a decorative coating to create logos or branding in commercial buildings.
Porcelain Tile Flooring
Because of its strength (it is stronger than granite) porcelain tile flooring is a highly sought after garage flooring material. Porcelain tiles are made of finely ground glass crystals, then fired at an extremely high temperature which results in a glass-like composition that cannot be stained or penetrated.
Foam/Rubber Flooring
Foam/rubber flooring is available in tiles and mats. They are typically produced in interlocking patterns in order to provide additional durability. Commonly found in garages that have been converted into a home gym, foam/rubber tile flooring is durable, easy to clean and low maintenance.
Considerations
Building, renovating or converting a garage is an exciting project that can offer tremendous value. As a guide to help you decide what type of garage will best fit your needs, there are several things to consider:
Configuration
Your garage’s configuration is something most homeowners don’t think of. However, it’s important to plan ahead before constructing your garage. The way your garage is designed is dependent on your specific needs. For example: if you or someone in your home is disabled, you’ll want to consider a wider space to accommodate wheelchairs etc.
Cost
In general, the cost of building a garage is dependent on the size of the garage, where it is located, materials used (such as brick, cinder block, metal etc.), doors/hardware, electrical components, drywall and insulation to name a few.
Local Ordinances
Depending on where you live, construction will likely require a permit, and some areas have specific ordinances, so it’s important to understand any limitations (including your HOA) first.
Location
There are some municipalities that require specific placement of the garage, such as on the side of the home. It is important to understand any requirements/restrictions before embarking on any home improvement project, such as a garage renovation/addition.
Honey Do Men has over 20 years of experience constructing, renovating and converting garages of all types, sizes and configurations. Call us today to schedule a free consultation!
TESTIMONIALWhat Our Customers Say About Us
Alejandra KingClient
David’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started...Read More
Dave CosmoClient
What an awesome job replacing our front door! Chris, Kip and Silvio were great at managing some of the unexpected...Read More
Paul PlutzkerClient
Thank you Honey do men. I’ve waited 2 years to get my basement redone and couldn’t be more pleased with...Read More
Blair ElefantClient
I had the pleasure of working with Honey Do Men on a tv mount install and hanging multiple items of...Read More
Alejandra KingClient
David’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started promptly and completed everything in the timeframe, as promised. It was unlike prior contractors I experienced, where they don’t show up for days. We knew when they were coming and what they were working on next.
We are very happy with the quality and professionalism of this team. We would be more than happy to do our next house project with Honey Do Men and would recommend them to anyone we know.
Dave CosmoClient
What an awesome job replacing our front door! Chris, Kip and Silvio were great at managing some of the unexpected issues we faced. The team helped us work through them and the installation went smoothly. Excellent communication and support throughout the entire process. Highly recommend Honey Do Men for any home repair/renovation you may have. Thank You!!!
Paul PlutzkerClient
Thank you Honey do men. I’ve waited 2 years to get my basement redone and couldn’t be more pleased with the results. I included a before pic for comparison. It’s night and day. From the beginning working with Vince was great. He guided me through the process, answered all of my questions and concerns. Then Angel came with his crew and did a fantastic job. I am very excited to be able to use my basement as an enticing living space, not just for storage. Thank you again for a job well done! 😀
Blair ElefantClient
I had the pleasure of working with Honey Do Men on a tv mount install and hanging multiple items of varying sizes and weights. They were extremely professional, polite, clean and precise in the work itself and took the stress out of what could’ve been a quite difficult process. I’ll absolutely use them again!
Improving the energy efficiency of your garage can reduce energy costs and make it more comfortable:
Insulate the Garage Door: Use insulation kits or replace the door with an insulated model to reduce heat loss/gain.
Seal Gaps and Cracks: Apply weatherstripping around the door and seal any gaps in the walls or around windows.
Insulate Walls and Ceiling: Add insulation to the garage walls and ceiling, especially if the garage is attached to the house.
Install Energy-Efficient Windows: Replace single-pane windows with double or triple-pane options to improve insulation.
Use a Programmable Thermostat: If the garage is heated or cooled, a programmable thermostat can help manage energy use more efficiently.
LED Lighting: Replace old light bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights to reduce electricity consumption.
Regular maintenance of your garage door is essential to keep it functioning well and extend its lifespan:
Inspect Regularly: Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed cables, rust, or dents. Look for any misalignment or unusual noises during operation.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to hinges, rollers, tracks, and springs to ensure smooth operation and reduce wear.
Test Balance: Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door. It should stay open about halfway without assistance. If it doesn’t, the balance may need adjustment by a professional.
Check Weatherstripping: Inspect the weatherstripping at the bottom of the door and replace it if it’s cracked or damaged to maintain a good seal.
Clean Tracks: Keep the tracks clean and free of debris. Use a damp cloth to wipe them down and ensure they are aligned properly.
Test Safety Features: Regularly test the auto-reverse mechanism by placing an object in the door’s path. The door should reverse immediately upon contact. If it doesn’t, have the opener serviced.
Professional Maintenance: Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance service annually to ensure all components are in good working order and to address any potential issues before they become major problems.
Maximizing space in your garage involves strategic organization and storage solutions:
Wall Storage: Install shelves, pegboards, and hooks on the walls to keep tools, bicycles, and other items off the floor.
Overhead Storage: Use ceiling-mounted racks or shelves for storing less frequently used items like seasonal decorations or sporting equipment.
Cabinets and Drawers: Invest in sturdy cabinets and drawer units to keep smaller items and tools organized and easily accessible.
Multipurpose Furniture: Consider fold-down workbenches or tables that can be stored away when not in use.
Zone Organization: Create specific zones for different categories of items, such as gardening tools, automotive supplies, and hobby equipment, to keep things orderly and easy to find.
Clear Containers: Use transparent storage bins to easily identify contents, and label them for added organization.
There are several types of garage doors, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
Sectional Garage Doors:
Pros: Popular and widely available, offer good insulation, operate quietly, can be customized with windows and various designs.
Cons: Require space along the ceiling for tracks, more moving parts can mean higher maintenance needs.
Roll-Up Garage Doors:
Pros: Space-efficient, durable, ideal for commercial use, secure and resistant to forced entry.
Cons: Limited design options, can be more expensive, require regular maintenance to ensure smooth operation.
Side-Hinged Garage Doors:
Pros: Easy to operate manually, can be made of various materials, offer a classic look, good for garages with limited headroom.
Cons: Need clear space in front to open, may require frequent maintenance of hinges and locks.
Tilt-Up Canopy Garage Doors:
Pros: Simple design, usually less expensive, easy to operate.
Cons: Swing outwards requiring clearance space, limited insulation, can be heavy and difficult to automate.
Tilt-Up Retractable Garage Doors:
Pros: Do not protrude outward, can be automated, offer a clean look.
Cons: More complex mechanism means higher cost and maintenance, require more space inside the garage.
Alejandra King ClientDavid’s team at Honey Do Men did a fantastic job in our bathroom. Once all the materials arrived they started...Read More