Most homeowners spend their summer time outside, enjoying the warm weather and spending more time with family and friends. Besides this, the summer period provides a perfect time for enthusiastic homeowners to complete a few home improvement projects, such as cleaning the garage or converting the garage space into a new, functional area. Simple garage conversion ideas, such as using room dividers as a temporary garage wall to create a workout space, don’t require professional services.
However, major conversions, such as raining the floor, adding heating and ventilation systems, and updating doors and windows, might need expert services. Below are a few different uses of garage space besides parking.
1. Storage
The garage can make a perfect storage space. Unfortunately, most homeowners only use the small available space that remains after parking their vehicles. These ideas can help you increase your garage storage space:
- Door storage – Up and over garage doors can provide excellent additional storage space. Simply attach mesh totes inside the door.
- Ceiling storage – Installing shelves allows you to use vertical space in your garage.
- Bike lifts – Bicycles often take up a lot of garage space. Bike lift systems are a smart way of extending the available space.
You can also use bungee rope bins, pegboards, rolling bins, and jars under shelves to extend your storage space.
2. Home Gym
Fitness enthusiasts who don’t like public gyms can convert their garage space into a workout area. Gym memberships are costly, and driving daily to the gym requires a lot of commitment. Some people are also uncomfortable and insecure being around strangers. If you fit this fold, converting your garage space into a home gym is a perfect option. Your garage can provide plenty of room to exercise. It also accommodates fitness equipment.
3. Workshop
Most homeowners have converted their garage space into workshops. You can work on various handy projects, such as upcycling furniture, repairing machines and equipment, and other projects. Besides providing ample space, the garage also offers protection from harsh weather elements, such as snow and sun. Using the garage is cost-saving, as you won’t have to rent a workspace.
4. Studio
The garage space is a perfect heaven for hobbyists. It makes an excellent art studio for adults and a crafts space for kids. It has smooth concrete surfaces that ease maintenance and provides sufficient space for storing supplies. You can also open its large door to let in the bright natural light if the weather is tolerable. Installing foldable tables, easels, and wall hooks for vertical storage helps maximize garage floor space.
5. Living Space Above the Garage
Homeowners looking to increase their home value should consider adding a living space above their garage. All garage sizes, including a single-car garage, take up significant space. Building upwards increases the livable space in your home and makes the house attractive to homebuyers. While such projects might prove expensive, your home’s resale value is worth the investment.
What to Consider Before Making Garage Changes
You should consider the following before converting your garage space for different usage:
When is converting a good option?
Whether you want to create a new livable room, workshop, or workout space, you should consider garage remodeling only if:
- The garage door can easily be replaced – This is a specific concern for homeowners who want a new living space. You should ensure the new wall can blend into your home’s exterior and create a wall that doesn’t look like the garage.
- Budget for heating and cooling – Confirm with heating experts if your current HVAC system can support additional rooms. If it can’t, you should budget for an updated system or buy an independent HVAC unit for your garage heating needs.
- Plumbing – You should have a reliable water supply in your garage for various uses. Installing plumbing lines, especially drainage, is costly.
- Adequate parking is available elsewhere – Converting your garage, especially a single-car garage, means taking over your vehicle parking space. Doing this isn’t worth the expenses if you don’t have somewhere to park your car, store your lawn mower, and other storage needs.
Do you need a permit?
Converting your garage into a workout space means changing its initial intended function. While this varies by location, most states require homeowners to have a building permit. Contact your local city’s zoning department for guidance. You should also engage an architect to provide a floor plan necessary for permit approval.
Having a permit means you’ve committed to meeting the local building codes for living spaces. Building codes dictate several aspects of construction, such as the number of doors, windows, ceiling height, and other elements. You should also consult your homeowners’ association for clearance.
Does conversion add value to your home?
If done correctly, a garage conversion can increase your property value. However, the true value depends on the quality and type of room created. Ideally, you should recoup 80% of the project costs. However, the project can affect your home value negatively if:
- Your neighborhood doesn’t accept street parking
- The remodel project is illegal and doesn’t have permits
- The project reduces storage space
Endnote
Your garage space provides more functionality beyond parking vehicles. However, you should consider several factors before implementing the project. Whether you want a workout space, a home office, or an additional living space, ensure it has enough insulation, lighting, electrical wiring, and permits.