A garage conversion is a result of designing a space within the walls of an existing garage. The main purpose of garage conversion is to provide an additional living area that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.
As with any project where structural changes are made, it will involve a certain amount of renovation. In the process, you may find that you need to hire a contractor, especially since structural engineers will be required to design the changes that will be made.
Before you get started, ask yourself these important questions:
Do I want to expand the garage space?
Viable reasons for converting your garage might include adding a workshop, bedroom, family room, or another living space. You can also connect it with an existing house and create better flow between the two.
It will be easier to make these changes if your garage is attached to the house instead of being a stand-alone structure. If you are willing to take on this project, then you should hire an architect or contractor with experience in converting garages since they are built following different rules. Hiring one who is knowledgeable about both homes and garages will make the conversion a success.
Who else lives in the house?
If there are other people living in your home, this should be considered as well. If they are not comfortable with the changes you want to make, it might cause problems within your family or even between you and your spouse. Adding more space can increase your property value and allow you to live in a better environment, but it can also cause issues with your neighbors.
Since this project is going to affect the rest of your living space, including bedrooms and bathrooms, be sure that everyone involved is aware of what will happen before you get started so that no one feels left out. If a wide-scale renovation is going to cause problems, try limiting the changes or pushing them off, if possible.
Comfort and convenience
Make a list of what you want to change, renovate or add. Then consider the changes that are needed for comfort and convenience. Once you have done this, you can then take measurements of your garage.
Your floor plan will probably need to be changed in order to accommodate the new living spaces, which might require you to rebuild the foundation of your garage. Your main entrance might have to be moved, so consider this when you are planning how you will use the additional living space.
Harold Price is a home improvement blogger who strives to improve his life and the lives of others. He provides homeowners with helpful tips on how to renovate their homes. His goal is not only to provide easy-to-follow instructions, but also share his own personal experiences for those seeking guidance.
