If you are looking for more elbowroom in your home, there may be options other than expensive additions or moving to a new house. Taking space from existing areas of the home, such as a garage, is a more budget-friendly way to gain much-needed living space. However, there are many things to consider before converting a garage into a living space.

Things to Consider

Permits

Since you are changing how the space will be used, you will most likely need building permits, though this can vary by location. Check with your local municipality to see if converting garage space is allowed where you live. To apply for garage conversion permits, contact your city’s zoning department for more information. You may need to work with an architect to provide a proposed floor plan when applying for permits. In addition to construction permits, you may also need permits for adding a window or a door and electrical permits for outlets and lighting. Bring in the experts and get quotes so you can create your budget.

How Much Does a Garage Conversion Cost?

The average cost of a garage conversion is between $6,000 and $19,000. The total cost will depend on the size of your garage, the type of room you are constructing, and the amount of professional help needed. Costs can vary greatly depending on the area in which you live, types of materials used, and the contractors you hire. If you can do any of the work yourself, you may be able to save greatly on overall costs.

Additionally, once the construction is complete, you’ll need funds to actually design and furnish the space. Remember to include that in your budgeting as well.

Here is an average breakdown of the costs involved.

• Permits: $700
• Insulation: $1 per square foot
• Drywall Installation: $2,000
• Windows: $1,000 per window
• Heating & Cooling Installation: $1,500
• Electricity (lights and outlets): $500 – $1,000
• Flooring: $1,500 – $4,000 (depending on material)
• Interior Furnishings: $2,000 – $5,000

Raising the Floor

Another factor to consider is that most garages are a step down from the rest of the house. (It may be one small step or a small flight of steps.) Consider in advance if you’ll want to raise the floor to meet the floor in the adjoining room (usually a kitchen). You’ll need to construct a subfloor to do this.

The Garage Door

What will you do with the exterior garage door? One option is to wall it off by building a wall inside of the door. This will leave the exterior intact. Trying to add a window or a door right in front of your driveway can often look odd. Consider adding the window to the side or back wall instead.

Sheetrock & Insulation

To make this a comfortable living space, the walls will need to be insulated and Sheetrock will need to be installed. Keep in mind, adding Sheetrock is a lengthy and very messy process. Expect dust to be everywhere, no matter how well you try to contain it.

Adding Heat & A/C

Consider if your existing heating and air conditioning units can handle the additional square footage of your converted garage. You may have to get another unit installed to properly heat and cool the extra square footage.

Adding a Window

Your new living space will need some sunlight. You will want to add windows, a door, or a combination of both. Consider where those elements would work best for the room from both the inside and outside.

Garage Conversion Ideas

Before beginning the renovation, taking the time to consider how you will actually use the space will guide your design decisions. Here are some suggestions:

• Playroom
• Studio Apartment or In-Law Suite
• Bedroom
• Art Studio
• Home Office
• Family Room

The Door That Leads to the House

Usually the door that leads into the house from the garage is a fire door and not that attractive. Finding out if this door can be removed or replaced is another consideration for the overall design aesthetic.

Interview Contractors

Depending on your skills, chances are you’ll need to hire out for some if not all of the work for your new space. Finding the right contractor is essential. Begin your contractor search by asking family and friends for referrals.

Ready to Start Your Garage Remodel?

Once you’ve considered everything that’s involved and decided a garage conversion is the way to go, have fun designing your new space!

Roxanne is a home decor blogger and DIY enthusiast. On her site, The Honeycomb Home, she shares simple, creative ways to update your home on a budget. She has appeared on the Rachael Ray Show and has worked with the Property Brothers.