How to Expand a Garage

Is your garage a bit cramped so it’s uncomfortable, or are you looking for a way to use space that has not been used for a long time? Expanding a garage is certainly a big task, but the results are well worth it. If you don’t know where to start, read our guide to answering frequently asked questions about garage extensions below to do a great job renovating your home!

Table of Contents

How can I extend a one-car garage?

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Extend the garage to the length to have more room to work. Do you often use the garage to make a workshop at home? When you extend the length of your garage, you will have more room to store tools and equipment. This extension also adds storage space or helps you convert your garage into a living space. ^{[1] X Research Source}

For example, you can extend the garage to make a home gym.

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Expand the garage to have room for more cars. Parking space is a necessary space of every home, especially when you buy more cars. Convert your one-car garage to a two-car garage, or expand the garage a bit for more parking space. ^{[2] X Research Source}

A small extension in the garage can allow you to add bicycles and outdoor gear.

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Raise the garage ceiling height to accommodate larger vehicles. An average garage is suitable for basic vehicles such as sedans and SUVs but is not tall enough to park a trailer or an RV. The higher garage ceiling also makes it easier to raise the car when repairing. ^{[3] X Research Sources}

Raised garage ceilings are a great solution if you don’t have enough room to expand in other dimensions.

Can I build more floors above the garage?

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You can, but this requires design and construction work. First, you’ll need to hire an engineer to survey your garage’s current condition – they’ll let you know if the foundation and garage frame can withstand the extra floor. Next, you will ask the contractor to survey and strengthen the foundation if necessary, then hire a worker to complete the work. They can ensure the construction meets safety standards. ^{[4] X Research Sources}

For example, your garage may need an extra layer of plaster plaster on the walls and ceilings when you add it.

Can I convert my garage into a living space?

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Yes, you can completely turn a garage into a living space. You can convert your garage into a studio or home gym. Many people even convert garages into a home office, playroom or open kitchen. ^{[5] X Research Sources}

You can also convert the garage into a crafting or relaxing area.

Do I need a garage extension permit?

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You may need to ask for permission, but this depends on where you live. You should ask the relevant local government agency what types of permits are required – each province, city and country has its own planning requirements. Make an appointment to go there and let them know about the project you are planning to do. They will tell you the types of building and planning permits you need and provide an application form for you to fill out.

If you are in Prince William County, Virginia, USA, you will need a building permit and planning approval to expand the garage. ^{[6] X Research Source}

How close can the extension be to my land boundary?

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Ask your local authority for specifics. Planning requirements are not the same everywhere, and your building needs to meet the requirements of where you live. Go to your local government office – the staff there can tell you what is and isn’t allowed.

If you live in Fremont, California, USA, you can extend your home up to 3 meters from the backyard boundary line, as long as the extension does not take up more than 30% of the backyard area. ^{[7] X Research Sources}

Can I do the garage extension work myself?

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Technically it is possible, but this is not a good idea. Unless you have a lot of experience in construction, it is best to hire someone with expertise. Garage expansion is a job that requires knowledge of engineering and construction. To be on the safe side, you should hire a construction contractor to complete the work. ^{[8] X Research Sources}

How much does a garage expansion project cost?

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In the US, the average cost of a garage extension is about $12,000 (about $270 million). Construction costs include materials and labor. Some materials like bricks and iron are much more expensive than other building materials like wood. In addition, larger projects, such as converting a one-car garage into a two-car garage, will take longer and will cost more than a small project. ^{[9] X Research Source}

The final price will depend on the contractor you hire. You should research the different quotes online before signing a contract with a contractor!

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Construction costs will be higher if you hire construction industry professionals. If you plan to expand and convert your garage into another space, you may also need to hire other professionals such as carpenters and electricians. For larger projects, such as floors, you may have to hire an architect to draw up blueprints. ^{[10] X Research Source}

How long does it take to build a garage?

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It usually takes 1-2 weeks to build a garage. This time depends on the extension being made and the materials used. You should ask the building contractor for an estimate before doing so. ^{[11] X Research Source}

For example, building a building with bricks will take longer than pouring concrete.

Advice

Tell your neighbors in advance before you begin to expand the garage. Construction can be quite noisy and you want to disturb people! ^{[12] X Research Source}

Steps