4 Key Things to Consider Before Building a Garage Addition

A garage addition adds protected parking and additional storage space to your home, and can even increase its value. Before you begin planning for one, read on as J. Bryant Boyd Architect Design-Build shares important things that you need to consider first.

1. Attached or detached? A closed garage can either be attached or detached, and the choice will depend on your home style and how much space you have on your lot. Each style has its own pros and cons that you need to weigh based on your needs. For example, a detached garage is basically a freestanding building, therefore it will cost more to build. However, it is also safer because it won’t allow carbon monoxide into your home. On the other hand, an attached garage offers more convenience when you need to frequently load and unload from your vehicle.
2. Garage size. Next, consider how much space you have available, as well as how many vehicles you need to accommodate. A standard two-car garage’s footprint ranges from 400 to 720 square feet (20×20 to 24×30 feet, respectively) — you’ll need to lean towards a bigger footprint if you prefer trucks and similarly-sized vehicles. You’ll also need to consider how much storage space you will need. The driveway should likewise be factored into the garage design.
3. Building codes and CC&Rs. In most cities and municipalities, garages are considered as accessory buildings, and should therefore meet applicable building codes. If you live in a community overseen by an HOA, there may be rules in the CC&Rs (covenants, conditions and restrictions) that apply to building garages. A capable design-build contractor should have knowledge about building codes, however you should review your CC&Rs and make sure that the garage design is compliant before proceeding with your project.
4. Living space. Depending on the size of your garage, you can add a second story to make it an extension of your home’s living space. It can be used as a guest bedroom or an in-law suite, a home office or a hobby room. Living spaces need to have insulation and ventilation, as well as plumbing and electricity, all of which will impact the project cost and timeline. 

If you need a design-build contractor for a garage addition or other home remodeling projects, give J. Bryant Boyd Architect Design-Build a call at (512) 980-9967. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve Round Rock, TX and the surrounding communities.