Have you ever heard people complain that their garages are too small? Or how much they wish they had more storage space? Or how could they not afford another car because the garage is too small? Building a garage is no easy task. You have to consider many factors lest you regret it.
Unfortunately, when buying a home or renovating an older home, not many people think about needing more space in the garage. As the years go by, your family grows, and your career advances, you may want to buy more cars for yourself or your family. Or, you may need more storage space, or even want a dwelling above the garage.
While building the right garage may do more good than harm, people don't give it much thought, especially when deciding on the type of garage they want. Then there's the question of what type of garage you need.
Let's start by looking at the different types of garages that can be considered. The attached garage shares a wall or walls with the main house. Then there is a detached garage, a structure completely separate from the house. You can even have a semi-detached structure connected to the house by a corridor. Each of these has its advantages and disadvantages.
Keep in mind that expanding your garage later can be costly. Sometimes extending it isn't an option, especially in the case of attached garages. So consider all factors before making a decision. If you are planning to build a garage, you are in the right place.
This article will help you discuss the aspects, advantages and disadvantages of each type of garage. Look no further for a comprehensive guide to deciding on the size and type of garage you need. Let's consider each of the available options in more detail.
1. What is an attached garage?
An attached garage is a carport or storage structure that is attached to a home and often blends seamlessly into the home's design.
It usually shares one or more walls with the house structure and has an egress door leading directly into the house. For example, an egress door from a garage might lead to a storage or laundry room of the house. The garage can be on the front, side or back of the house.
Generally, if these garages are built at the same time as the house, they share a roof. This was not the case for garages built later. Such a garage is not on the same roofline as the main house and looks unsightly.
Note: A garage is called an attached garage even if it is structurally separate from the house but still attached to the house. (according to the rulesAdministrative Code 4781-6-024781-6-03)
Garages with direct door access to the home are popular with homebuyers. That's because you can quickly get into your garage or house in bad weather without having to go outside. Additionally, this type of garage offers you privacy as you don't have to gossip with your neighbors as you travel to and from the house and garage.
appendix Garage Specifications:
Speaking of dimensions, according to lawinsider.com, attached garages should be no more than 32 feet in length and 10 feet in height. The standard wall or wall between the garage and the house is usually insulated to protect the house from the low temperatures of the garage. In addition, the garage door leading to the house should also be a fire door to protect the occupants from accidental injuries in the garage.
Below is a photo of a house with a two attached garage. Both share two walls with the house and have a common door leading to the laundry room. A garage can park two cars, one big and one small. Alternatively, a larger garage can hold one car, while a smaller garage can store junk or things that aren't normally needed around the house.
image:Fuente
Main points:
- Ideally the attached garage with internal access to the space provided.
- Attached garage doors must not exceed 32 feet in length and ten (10) feet in height.
- The attached garage is attached to your home and shares a wall with direct access to the home.
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1.1 Advantages and disadvantages of attached garage
There are several advantages and disadvantages to having an attached garage rather than a detached garage.
advantage
attached garage
- You can use the attached garage to store your car, store things you don't need, and even store the junk you want to throw away later.
- You can use the attached garage as a work space or workshop. Quick access to bathrooms or other public services of the house.
- If you leave your garage door open, you can easily communicate with your family. If you need things stored in your garage, accessing them is easier.
- You can make a tiny home with a garage appear larger to suit its neighborhood, look better, and even increase the resale value of the home. Homes with garages generally have a higher resale value. The estimated resale rate for an attached garage is approximately eighty-one percent of its cost. For example, if a two-car garage costs about $27,000, the resale value will add about $21,000 to the sale price of the home.
- An attached garage is cheaper to build than a detached garage because the former always uses one or more of the existing walls of the home. So, if it's an attached garage, you should build up to three walls.
- It's handy to go from the garage to the house and vice versa in bad weather.
- It's easier to use your home's heating/cooling and electrical systems, and you don't have to be connected to another building. Attached garages usually meet homeowners association standards. A smaller parcel than would be required for a detached garage may be required. It also leaves more usable space in the yard than a detached garage. You can store a second refrigerator or freezer in the garage.
Contra
attached garage
- Your fire risk is higher. This is because combustible materials, such as gasoline products, are often stored in garages. In the event of a wildfire, auto or chemical fire, an attached garage will more easily spread the fire to the main house.
- Other states or territories have different regulations regarding garages. For example, certain areas require an attached garage to meet the same building code requirements as the main house. This requires the garage to have the same glazing, insulation and construction requirements as the house. In this case, you are better off opting for a detached garage.
- Reorganizing or expanding a garage, if necessary, can be a challenge.
- It can pose a health risk as car exhaust can enter the interior.
- Some garage doors have buttons or numeric codes to lock or unlock them. If someone knew the codes, it could pose a security risk to the house because the garage has a door leading to the house.
- An attached garage can spoil the home's exterior and reduce curb appeal. Sometimes an attached garage can destroy the character of a home with a separate roofline, almost like an afterthought during construction.
- Placing an attached garage on the side of the house can be challenging if the lot is narrow due to the need for more space. Even though it can be installed in an attached garage, it can sometimes cut off access to the backyard.
- You will need to check the license code for your region. This type of garage can be expensive if you live in an area with high building permit fees or if your home is older.
- Can hear noise from the garage inside the house.
2. What is an independent garage?
A detached garage is a separate structure that is not attached to the house. It may be just a few meters from the main house, or it may be at the other end of the property.
These are usually larger than attached garages due to the freedom of being detached. A small detached garage on a residential lot may qualify as an accessory structure under the requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). When building the aforementioned garages, you may want to check the rules that apply to them.
A detached garage adds additional curb appeal. Plus, since it's not part of the main house, you have more freedom in terms of design, construction and quality of finishes. Detached garages usually have an egress door on the side or rear with the driveway leading to the house. They are prefabricated structures that can be assembled quickly. You can build your garage using steel frames, bricks, or precast concrete.
Additionally, you can make the structure look completely different from the house, or give it a design and color to blend in with the house. Unlike before, today, prefabricated structures are constructed with quality materials and skilled labor. So they don't need to be temporary structures. Before building a detached garage, consult with a garage professional about allowable restrictions on garage height and width in your area. Regulations may vary by county or state. Yo
advantage
independent garage
- A detached garage would make more sense if you have a tight lot, as there isn't enough room on one side of the house for an attached garage.
- Due to the distance, the noise from the garage is less likely to disturb the occupants of the house. Provides privacy to those in the house.
- No risk of car exhaust or smoke entering the house.
- Reduce the risk of house fires.
- Changes such as extensions or design changes are easier to make.
- It is more secure because even if you forget to lock the garage, no one can enter the house through it.
- You can make it large enough for a workshop or larger storage space.
- Some detached garages can increase the resale value of a home. At resale, you can get around 64% of the cost of a detached garage. So if it costs $50,000 to build a two-car garage, when cansell house, you can get an additional $35,000.
- You can have a finished private room above the garage (FROG). This will give you extra storage space to create a private study or even a guest room.
Contra
independent garage
- Detached garages are usually more expensive because they don't share a wall with the house. This will require more gardening. In the case of electricity or heating or cooling systems, you need to wire the house.
- Even in bad weather, you have to get from the house to the garage and back again. If you have stored things in the garage, or have an extra freezer or refrigerator, you will have to come out of the house to get things. If you buy a lot of groceries or other things, you will have to take them home, which can be inconvenient.
- Detached garages typically take up more space. You'll be left with a smaller yard. You'll want to check with your homeowners association about any restrictions on the size of a detached garage. Some of them do not allow detached garages. If you work in the garage, you must return to the house to use the utilities.
3. What is a built-in garage?
Attached garages are built into ground or one-story homes with a family room above.
A built-in garage is a car shelter built into the structure of the house. These garages have no roof; the floor of the room above serves as the roof of the garage. The gate is the only gift that distinguishes the garage from the house. Built-in garages usually share one or both walls with the house. This garage can be accessed from inside the house through a door.
This type of garage is often ideal for narrow or smaller lots, or where detached or attached garages are not available due to the need for more space or land. In addition, architects often maximize vertical space due to the small footprint of homes.
According to the IRC (International Residential Code (IRC) Section R302.6), the garage side and attic of a residence must be separated by, for example, drywall of not less than one-half inch or equivalent thickness. For rooms above the garage, partitions shall be no smaller than ⅝ inch Type X drywall or equivalent. This section also requires that the structure supporting the floor-ceiling assembly used for the spacing be not less than one-half inch drywall or equivalent.
Finally, garages located within three feet (914 mm) of residential units on the same lot require at least one-half inch drywall or equivalent applied to the inside of the interior and exterior walls in the area.
4. What is a semi-attached garage or walkway/porch?
Attached or hallway/porch garages combine the advantages of attached or detached garages.
- They look like an extension of the house.
- A corridor separates them from the house, so there is no direct connection between the attached garage and the house.
- While the garage is not attached to the house, a porch/porch can protect you from the sun, snow or rain as you enter and exit the house.
A hallway can be just a roof, or it can be an enclosed area between the house and the garage. If closed, it can be used as a small storage room for shoes, golf equipment, bicycles, bikes and more. You can add a semi-detached garage to an existing home and still have the flexibility to upsize it and possibly have a room on the top floor.
A garage porch with an attractive door design enhances the home's curb appeal. Sidewalk roofs can be made of any water-resistant material, such as wood, plastic, or glass. On average, a 40-square-foot porch roof costs between $2,000 and $4,000. The price depends on the pitch of the roof and the material of construction.
advantage
semi-detached garage
- Since the hallway (and distance) protects it, there is little chance of car exhaust entering the house.
- You don't need to go outside in bad weather to access the garage. The enclosed hallway acts as a buffer, limiting the sound from the garage that disturbs the occupants of the house.
- If you have a workshop, a hallway can keep you away from the occupants of the house.
- Utilities are close by as you simply walk across the hallway to access the bathroom or kitchen.
- You can build a room over the garage and turn it into a guest room or private study.
- This is safer than an attached garage because there is a hallway between them and even if you forget to lock the garage, you cannot directly enter the house.
Contra
detached garage
- Building a semi-detached garage can be expensive because you have to add a ventilation duct, which is an added expense.
- You have to use more space in the yard to add hallways. So if you don't have the space, it might be difficult to do this.
5. Attached and detached garages
Whether you should choose an attached garage or a detached garage depends on several factors. Some of these are total cost, difficulty of installation, design, future expansion, garage noise, comfort, electricity, health, safety and insurance risks, privacy requirements and garage resale value.
5.1 Fees
Attached garages cost much less than detached garages. For example, installing an attached two-car garage and work area can cost between $7,500 and $27,040. We're talking a 26 x 26 garage storage space with vinyl siding, a door, a window, two garage doors, built in wiring and minimal finishing options.
On the other hand, installing a detached garage of the same size and similar configuration can cost between $58,430 and $86,400. This is because setting up a detached garage is similar to setting up a separate building entirely. This will require separate infrastructure such as electricity and plumbing.Detached garages cost 10-15% more than attached garages..
Detached garages cost $40-70 more per square foot. About half of the cost is for materials and tools, while the other half is for labor.
5.2 Installation
An attached garage shares one or more walls with the house and has a roof attached to the house. Also, by marking out the foundation of the home, the surveyor will include the attached garage in the space. The surveyor will bill the building approximately $1,000.
Getting a permit for an attached garage is more complicated. In the case of a detached garage, it is a separate building and the surveyor will charge more accordingly. Check zoning requirements and any HOA restrictions. Some HOAs restrict the type or size of garages.
5.3 Extensions
As your family and income grow, you may need a larger garage. However, obtaining a permit to expand an attached garage is much more complicated and costly. It is often not possible to extend an attached garage because it is part of the main house, or it is quite a challenge, and any changes will not only be expensive, but may affect the appearance of the house.
In the case of a detached garage, expansion is easier because it is a separate structure and not tied to the architecture of the home like an attached garage.
Layout Building an attached garage can cut off backyard access on narrow lots. Plus, an attached two- or three-car garage will dwarf a small home. A detached garage makes more sense, although it will take up more space. You can also add living quarters on top of a detached garage, which can be difficult with attached garages. With a detached garage, you'll likely have more gardening space and window views, since an attached garage will have one or more walls that it shares with the house.
5.4 Noise
In the case of an attached garage, noise can travel quickly from the garage to the house. This is because the attached garage shares one or more walls with the house. A detached garage makes the most sense if you plan to have a work space and create a lot of noise in the garage because it won't disturb the occupants of the home.
5.5 Convenience
If there is an attached garage, the house can easily be entered through the door. So you are safe in bad weather like rain or snow. Likewise, if you want to carry groceries or other packages from your car to your home, it's easier and more convenient with an attached garage. In the case of a detached garage, unless you build a sidewalk, you have to go outside in bad weather to get into the house. However, it will cost more and may not protect you from the elements.
5.5 Electricity
It is cheaper and easier to connect electricity and other utilities to an attached garage than to a detached garage. In the case of an attached garage, you can run utilities from the main house. You can also use the same heating and cooling system.
In the case of a detached garage, you will have to wire it to another building (the house) for power and run the utilities from the main building. The plumbing will also cost more. Additionally, a detached garage will require separate heating and cooling systems. All of these costs will increase with the distance of the detached garage from the house.
5.6 Health risks
Time spent backing the car out of the garage or parked/idle can result in unsightly toxic exhaust that can quickly find its way into the home if there is an attached garage.
You can also store hazardous chemicals in the garage. The American Lunch Association recommends that attached garages should have adequate ventilation due to the health risks. The detached garage provides security as it is located away from the house. Therefore, there is little chance of toxic fumes or bad smells from the garage entering the house.
5.7 Safety and Security
There is a risk of someone entering the attached garage and therefore the house. This is especially true if the locking system is not secure. In addition, the house is also at risk in case of fire. With detached garages, this risk is reduced or eliminated. Anyone who enters the garage does not have direct access to the house.
Also, if the garage catches fire, the house is not at risk. You should consult your insurance company and decide what type of garage you prefer. Some insurers require separate clauses for stand-alone structures. Other insurance companies favor detached garages over detached garages due to the risks described above.
5.8resale value
The resale value of a home can go up or down depending on how well the garage complements the home. For example, it should be in line with the rest of the house and not stick out like a thumb. If you have a detached garage in a neighborhood with attached garages, this will lower the resale value of the home.
An attached garage can affect the look of a home, especially if the home is small and the attached garage faces the front. However, if you live somewhere with extreme weather, an attached garage is better. Attached garages also had a higher resale value, about 81 percent. If it cost about $27,000 to build, you can add about $21,000 to the home's value by selling it.
On the other hand, the resale rate for detached garages is about 64%. If you built the garage for about $50,000, you could add about $30,000 to the value of your home by selling it. Of course, here we are talking about a standard garage with conventional accessories. Real estate professionals estimate that a two-car attached or detached garage can add as much as $30,000 to the resale value of a home. A garage can be added in half. Of course, the final resale value will depend on other factors, such as how many utilities or accessories you own.
For example, extra storage space, electric door openers, or openings that don't face the street can all increase resale value. Privacy If you prefer privacy away from residents or guests who may still be visiting, a detached garage will make more sense. If the garage is attached, you get very little privacy as there is only one door separating it from the main house.
5.9 Appearance
You will need to decide what type of garage you want based on the look of your house. For example, if your house is small, an attached garage can make the house look more prominent. However, if the house is small, an oversized attached garage can take a toll on the overall look of the house. In this case, a detached garage would make more sense. A detached garage also adds to curb appeal, especially in the case of smaller homes.
5.8 Key Differences Between Attached Garages and Detached Garages
| attached garage | independent garage |
| The attached garage is estimated to cost between $7,500 and $27,040. | The cost of a detached garage is estimated to be between $58,430 and $86,400. |
| Obtaining a permit for an attached garage is more complicated. | Getting a permit for a detached garage is easier. |
| Difficult to expand or change structure or expand attached garage. Expansion permits are harder and more expensive to obtain. | It is easier to change the structure or expand the detached garage. Extended licenses are easier to obtain. |
| The layout of the attached garage blends seamlessly with the home. | The layout of a detached garage offers more room for variation. |
| The noise from the attached garage will disturb the occupants of the house. | Noise from the detached garage does not easily travel into the house. |
| Access to the attached garage is easier through the standard door. | One has to walk outside to get from the house to the garage. |
| Car exhaust can enter the house. In case the garage catches fire, the house is also at risk. | There is no danger of harmful emissions entering the house. In case of a fire in the garage, the house will be safer. |
| Since the garage and the house have a common door, the security risk is higher. | If someone breaks into the garage, the home is less of a security risk. |
| You can access public services of your house more easily. | You do not have easy access to public services in your home. |
| The resale value of an attached garage is about eighty-one percent of its cost. | The resale value of a detached garage is about 64% of the cost. |
| The attached garage has less privacy due to its proximity to the house. | The detached garage is ideal if you need some privacy. |
| It may not be possible to build a house on top of a garage. | You can quickly build your home on top of your detached garage. |
| The attached garage has minor curb appeal. | The detached garage adds character and curb appeal. |
| A large garage will also make the house appear larger. | An oversized detached garage can make a house look even smaller. |
| One can equip the garage and the house with central heating or cooling. | Requires installation of a separate heating or cooling system. |
| Suitable for large and spacious plots. | Ideal for small or narrow plots. |
| More common in modern houses. | More common in older homes. |
| Dimensions are limited because the structure of the house must be considered. | It can be larger than an attached garage. |
| The attached garage will provide less space for gardening and views from the windows. | A detached garage will provide additional gardening space and views from the windows. |
| Some insurance companies may consider this a home fire hazard. | Insurers favor detached garages due to lower fire or safety risks. |
6. Attached and built-in garages
The main difference between an attached garage and a built-in garage is that there is no living area above the attached garage. On the other hand, there is residence on top of the built-in garage, since it is structurally part of the house. However, both garages are accessible through the home's garage entry door.
Built-in garages are ideal for smaller or narrow plots, as separate or attached structures have less space and require a larger footprint. For townhouses, row houses or sloping land, architects use this type of garage to maximize vertical space due to the lack of horizontal area. The attached garage does not increase the occupied space of the house, and the attached garage increases the occupied space of the house.
In the case of a built-in garage, there may be little or less room on the ground floor as the garage occupies part of the ground floor. It could have more room on the floor above the garage. One can solve this space problem with an attached garage as it does not interfere with the structure of the house.
Built-in garages can disturb the occupants of the house, especially the rooms above the garage, as one can easily hear the sound of cars or any garage work within the house. The attached garage might not be easy to hear in the house because you don't have room above it.
6.1 Roof Style
If it is an attached garage, it will have a roof. Roof material and design may match the house. On the other hand, the built-in garage has a room above it, so the floor of the room above is the ceiling. The only way to identify the garage from the outside is through the large garage doors.
6.2 Shared Wall
While an attached garage may share one or two walls with the house, an attached garage may share at least two or three walls.
6.3 Applicable code: 2018 IRC
Since attached garages are only a subset of attached garages, the same codes apply to both. 2018 International Residential Code (IRC) Section R302.6, Fire separation between dwellings and garages, for attached and attached garages.
Garages must be divided in accordance with Table R302.6. Garage wall openings must comply with Section R302. 5. Drywall anchorage shall comply with the requirements of Table 702.3. 5. Garage walls perpendicular to the wall of the next dwelling unit are exempt from the wall spacing provisions of Table 302.6.
The third row in the table below applies to built-in garages, but not attached garages.
| separate | Material |
| Lofts and residences. | There must be at least 1/2 inch drywall or an equivalent surface on the garage side. |
| From every living space above the garage | A minimum of 5/8" Type X drywall or equivalent is required. |
| The structure required to support the floor-ceiling assembly is separated in this section. | At least 12 inches of drywall or equivalent |
| Garages on the same lot less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the dwelling unit | On the inside of exterior walls located in this area, a minimum of 12 inches of drywall or equivalent must be installed. |
The IRC code above is usually a copy of the local building code regarding the use of drywall in garages. Some local authorities may add to the above code to make it more clear or to make the code more stringent within their jurisdiction.
6.4 Architecture Design
Building a built-in garage requires more aesthetic thought as it is part of the main house and uses more aesthetically pleasing design techniques. On the other hand, there is an attached garage attached to the main house. It may or may not have a different architectural design.
An attached garage is definitely better than an attached garage. With homes being small, built-in garages are a necessity rather than an advantage. One downside to both garages is that noxious fumes and odors often enter the main house through the garage door leading to the house. However, you can reduce this with some weatherstripping and make a well-sealed, airtight entry.
7. Attached garage vs semi-detached
An attached garage has all the advantages of an attached garage without the disadvantages. The main difference between an attached garage and a semi-detached garage is that the former share one or more walls with the main house, while the latter do not share any walls with the main house.
Attached garages usually have a walkway that connects the garage to the house. In other words, an attached garage is a detached garage with an attached driveway or porch. This hallway may be enclosed or semi-enclosed to protect you from inclement weather.
While the attached garage has direct access to the house through a door to the pantry or other parts of the house; the attached garage has no direct access. With an attached garage, car exhaust or carbon monoxide from the garage can enter the home through the door. This is not the case with the attached garage as there is no door directly attached to the house.
Likewise, loud sounds from an attached garage can easily spread throughout the home and disturb occupants. However, the noise from the attached garage will be muffled or inaudible inside the house because it does not share a wall with the house.
An attached garage will require less lawn space attached to the main house, while a hallway or semi-detached garage will require more space, slightly further away from the main house. An attached garage will also cost less than an attached garage because it shares one or more walls with the house, while an attached garage requires separate walls. A hallway would be another additional expense for the semi-attached garage.
Since the attached garage is a freestanding structure, you can maximize vertical space by having a room above the garage. However, this is usually not the case with attached garages. An attached garage shares one or more walls with the house, and it can be difficult or impossible to add a room to it without affecting the aesthetics or appearance of the main house.
7.1 The main difference between attached garage and semi-detached garage
| attached garage | attached garage |
| Share one or more walls with the main house. | It does not share walls with the house and is a separate structure. |
| Connects directly to the door of the main house. | There is no direct connection to the main house. |
| It is a higher security risk because anyone who enters the garage can easily enter the house through the connecting door. | There is less of a security risk because anyone who enters the garage cannot enter the home without the attached door. |
| Easy access to house amenities and services. For example, since the garage is hooked up, it's easy to run wires to the main house. | Will require wiring from main house and separate utilities. Amenities are further than the attached garage. |
| You can use central heating or cooling. | It will require a separate heating or cooling system. |
| An attached garage is less expensive because it shares a wall or two with the house. | Building an attached garage will be more expensive because it is a separate structure. |
| Building an attached garage will free up more grass space for other uses since it is attached to the main house. | Building an attached garage will take up more lawn space since it is a separate structure from the main house. |
| It's hard or impossible to build a room over the attached garage because it looks awful. | It is easy to build room over a detached garage as it does not detract from the aesthetics of the home. |
| Extending or changing the structure will be difficult as it is attached to the house. | It will be easier to expand or change the structure of the garage because it is self-contained. |
| Car exhaust or carbon monoxide can easily enter the main house through the connecting door. | Car exhaust will not easily enter the house. |
| The noise from the attached garage can easily disturb the occupants. | Noise from the garage does not disturb the occupants of the house. |
| An attached garage offers less privacy because it shares a wall with the house and anyone can easily enter through the attached door. | You'll have more privacy because you're not home. |
| A large attached garage will make the house look even bigger. | A large attached garage can make the house appear smaller as a single structure. |
| Building permits for attached garages are more difficult to obtain. | Obtaining a building permit for a detached garage is relatively easy. |
| A floor plan with an attached garage will have less space for gardening and fewer views from the windows. | A floor plan with a semi-detached garage will have more room for gardening and views from the windows. |
8. Independent garage and built-in garage
The main difference between a detached garage and a built-in garage is that a detached garage is a separate structure whereas a built-in garage is part of the main house. Detached garages are usually larger than built-in garages because there is nothing limiting the size of a detached garage. However, since the attached garage is part of the house, there is a limit to how much space it can take up, as other rooms must also be included in the floor plan.
You can build a bonus room over the detached garage. There is already a room above the built-in garage; the floor of the room above is the ceiling of the garage. Detached garages can be extended, but not built-in garages.
If the plot is small and a separate structure is not possible, a built-in garage may be required. Detached garages take up more space because they are separate from the house.
A built-in garage would limit the number of rooms on the ground floor of the house. This differs from attached garages in that they take up space outside the main house.
Unlike built-in garages, detached garages add curb appeal and more space for landscaping. Also, with a detached garage, getting in and out of the house during inclement weather can be a challenge. So if you buy a lot of groceries, you will have to bring them home. In the case of a built-in garage, there is no need to go out of the house, as the connecting door allows direct access to the house. You can quickly transfer food or packages from your car to your home.
Detached garages are more expensive to build because they are separate structures. They also require separate house wiring, separate heating or cooling systems, different utilities, and more. On the other hand, the built-in garage allows for central heating or cooling. You won't need to wire another building and have easy access to indoor utilities from the attached garage.
8.1 The main difference between independent garage and built-in garage
| independent garage | built-in garage |
| It is more expensive to build because it is a self-contained structure that does not share any walls with the house. | It is less expensive to build because it is part of the main house. Shares all walls with the house. |
| You need wiring from another building (the main building). | Use house wiring because it's like a room in the main house. |
| You need separate utilities and heating and cooling systems. This will make it more expensive to build. | You have easy access to the house's utilities including central heating and cooling. The cost will be less than an attached garage. |
| A bonus room can be added above the garage. | It is not possible to add an extra room here as there is already a room above the garage. |
| You need to move groceries and other packages from your car to your home. | It cannot be extended as it is already part of the house. Your room size will be limited as you will have to leave room for other rooms on the ground floor. |
| There is no security risk to the house as there are no additional doors. | Since anyone who enters the garage can easily enter the house through the connecting door, there are additional security risks. |
| Since the structure is completely detached, the house has no fire risk. | Additional fire hazard, as any fire in the garage can quickly spread to the rest of the home. |
| There is more privacy as the building is separated from the house. | Since the garage is part of the house, there is less privacy. |
| Noise and exhaust cannot enter the house from the garage. | Noise and exhaust fumes can easily enter the house through the connecting door. |
| In inclement weather, people will have to go outside and shuttle back and forth between the garage and the house. | No need to worry about running back and forth between the garage and the house on sunny, snowy, or rainy days. |
| You need to move groceries and other packages from your car to your home. | Moving groceries/packages from the car to the home is easy as it has a connecting door. |
| Since it's a separate structure, it may be easier to get a building permit. | Building permits can be difficult because of the added fire risk of the home. |
| Ideal for larger plots as it requires more space to build on. | Ideal for smaller plots as it is within the main house. |
| A large detached garage can make a house look smaller. | A large built-in garage will make the house seem even bigger. |
| As a separate structure, it has more curb appeal, landscape space and window views. A house without a large garage door can have more architectural and decorative qualities. | As part of the house, it has less view space and less view from windows. The house will have a big ugly garage door. |
9. Detached and semi-detached garages
Detached and attached garages are separate structures from the main house. However, the main difference is that a hallway or porch connects the attached garage to the house.
Another difference is having to brave the inclement weather when traveling back and forth between the detached garage and the house. On the other hand, the hallway of the semi-detached garage provides some protection from rain and snow. Additional protection can be provided if the hallway is enclosed.
Detached garages require less space, while semi-detached garages require more hallway space. An enclosed hallway or porch will provide additional storage space for bikes or coats.
Attached garages are more expensive than detached garages because of the need to build a hallway and garage.
9.1 Best Garage Types According to Requirements
9.1.1 For single-family dwellings
What kind of garage is suitable for a single family?
According to a NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) analysis of 2021 Census Bureau Construction Survey data, the majority of single-family homes (67%) built in 2021 will have a two-car garage. In fact, two-car garages are the most popular choice in all census tracts across the country, with only a few that differ.
In the Midwest, three-car (or more) garages are the most popular choice for 47 percent of completed homes. On the other hand, 77% of new homes in the Pacific Divide have 2 car garages. The Mid-Atlantic region has the highest percentage of single-car garages (29 percent). Additionally, New England had the highest percentage of “other” parking spaces (13%), which includes carports, street parking, and other parking facilities.
About 19 percent of new single-family homes have garages large enough for three or more cars. About 24 percent of homes completed in 2015 had three-car garages, but that percentage has declined steadily since then. Only 1% of newly built homes have carports, and only 6% have single-car garages. About 7% of new homes do not have a garage or carport.
9.1.2 Garage Space in Single-Family Homes
The 2021 data shows that as the size of the home increases, the number of single garage or "other" categories decreases. Larger homes prefer garages that can hold two or more cars. About 75 percent of homes under 1,200 square feet have "other" parking options. Only 4 percent of homes larger than 5,000 square feet had "other" parking options. About 16 percent of homes between 1,200 and 1,599 square feet prefer a single-car garage, but only 1 percent of homes over 5,000 square feet choose a single-car garage.
About 73 percent of homes between 1,600 and 1,999 square feet have two-car garages, but that rises to 83 percent for the largest homes between 2,000 and 2,399 square feet. For larger homes between 2,400 and 2,999 square feet, the percentage is lower than 75 percent. The percentage of the largest homes has steadily declined.
Very few homes under 1,200 square feet (just 3 percent) prefer a three-car garage. This percentage continues to increase for the largest homes. For example, 66 percent of homes over 5,000 square feet have three-car garages.
9.2 Garage Apartments
Large families often prefer apartment plans with garages. It's a unique way to expand your home and office space. Garage apartments are detached garage plans that include a finished home above the garage. These garages have parking for one or two cars on the main level (or ground floor), with the living area above the garage. These are modest living spaces designed for functional and efficient living. Most garage apartments offer one or two bedrooms and bathrooms.
These dwellings above detached garages are private dens or private office spaces. Some of these garages have a store in addition to or instead of a living area. It is also possible to rent these homes to college students or young professionals. Alternatively, the house can be used as a guest room.
Here's a reference table to help you figure out how much garage space you'll need when owning one, two, three or four cars.
| size | Width (feet) | Depth (feet) | door width (feet) | Area (square feet) |
| 1 garage | 12' and 16' | 20' and 24' | 8' 10' | 240 to 384 |
| 2 garages | 18' and 22' | 20' and 22' | 8' and 16' | 440 to 624 |
| 3 garages | 32' and 40' | 20' and 30' | 8' and 16' | 620 to 816 |
| 4 garages | 40' and 44' | 20' and 24' | 8' and 16' | 800-1056 |
9.3 Single Garage
9.3.1 Dimensions
A single garage is usually at least 12' X 24' (feet) and can accommodate a car with a small storage space on the side. Typically, a single-car garage is 12 to 16 feet (3.5 to 5 meters) wide on one side, 20 to 24 feet (6 to 7.5 meters) deep and 2 to 5 meters (7 to 12 feet) high on one side. 3.5 meters). The total area is 240 to 384 square feet.
Single garage doors are about 8 to 10 feet or 2.5 to 3 meters wide. Other standard sizes (in feet) include 14 x 22, 16 x 24, and 14 x 24. When deciding on a garage size, you also need to consider how big your car is. For example, if you have a compact or sports car, your garage should be 14-16 feet long, 5-7 feet wide, and 4-6 feet high.
When calculating the ideal garage size, remember to add 5 to 6 feet to the width of the vehicle to account for doors that open on both sides. Sports cars, stretch cars, coupes and heavy trucks are more complete than economy cars, short cars, sedans and regular trucks.
9.3.2 Fees
A typical 12' x 22' single car garage costs between $6,000 and $10,000. Single-car garages are much less expensive than double-car garages because they take half the time and materials to build. But of course, the actual cost depends on several factors, such as the contractor, materials, and the exact square footage of the area.
Just make sure that if you're spending money on building a one-car garage, you're fine without a two-car garage. While less costly, it's not suitable for a single family with two cars (sometime in the future). Plus, any extra space can be used for storage, so think twice before choosing a single-car garage.
9.3.3 Architecture and Design
Architects don't always think bigger is better. Some houses have a one-car garage instead of a two-car garage and a huge door. Sometimes a single-car garage is also an addition to a tiny home. Carport styles and other small designs, for example, work best with single-car garages because the smaller garage doors complement the older style of this type of home.
9.3.4 Security
Safety is also a consideration when building a garage. For example, if you are used to storing hazardous chemicals or fuel in your garage, you need to guard against the possibility of a fire. In this case, it is best to have a detached garage, as an attached garage can pose a fire hazard to the main house.
Likewise, you will need a detached garage if you do not want car exhaust or other smells to enter the house. An attached garage will allow such fumes to quickly enter your home and harm your loved ones.
9.3.5 Privacy
If you're used to making noise in your garage or using it as a workplace, a detached garage makes more sense. This will give you some privacy. Also, any noise you make in the garage should not disturb the occupants of the house. On the other hand, if you want central heating and cooling, the attached garage would be ideal.
If you want to build a house on top of a garage, you need a detached garage. You can build the garage higher and include a loft that you can use for storage or as a study. The attached garage does not allow you this luxury.
9.3.6 Workspaces/cabinets and entrances
The type of garage you want depends on what you want to do in it. You may want to have some work space in the garage. You may need a workbench, cabinets, a place to store your lawn mower, extra living space or a gym.
For all the reasons above, a bigger garage is always better. Cabinets need at least 1 to 1.5 feet of space. You need to make sure you have enough space so you don't make mistakes like closing the garage door on the trunk of your car. Also, you need to have walking space in the garage. Items also require careful consideration.
Small gates are suitable for motorcycles and golf carts, but in general, there is standardization. For example, there are 9-foot-wide garage doors that allow more space on each side as you enter. Also, there are 8-foot tall garage doors, and any other custom height you want. Although doors vary in thickness, two boards are usually sandwiched within a half inch of insulation to control power flow.
9.3.7 Zoning regulations for garage size
Be sure to check the zoning regulations in your area. The country, city, or state has rules that you should take into account before building your garage.
Review minimum size requirements, building codes and specific ranges. You'll also be surprised by the regulations in each state. Some may require minimum dimensions or dictate the hardware you can use for your garage door. Certain conditions may dictate where to place the remote control or door motor. Some people do not allow the garage to face the back of their house.
Once you have your plans ready, it would be a good idea to consult a professional builder and have them make any necessary adjustments. Then, if you have time, do your research by reading books or checking your local government website for more information.
9.3.8 Consider your future needs
Remember, as you get better at your career, you're likely to ditch your small compact car. As your family grows, you can upgrade to a minivan. Or, if you have older children, they may soon learn to drive and need another car. If you or your family enjoy doing DIY projects, in this case, you can accommodate them by increasing the size of your garage.
People usually never complain that their garages are too big. All they complain about is how small their garage is. Underestimating the amount of space you may need in the future is the biggest mistake a person can make.
9.4 Garage for three cars
The three-car garage is the largest standard garage. These are for families with three adults who need different vehicles. They can be parents and older children or extended family. Alternatively, two garage spaces may be required, with the extra space available for storage or used as a work area. If you only have two cars, you can even turn the extra space into a guest room.
9.4.1 Dimensions
Three-car garages must be at least 24' x 30'. This will fit three small cars. Again, your actual size will depend on the size of your car and whether you need additional storage space. For example, if you need to add cabinets and a workbench, these will need to be factored into the dimensions. The overall dimensions of a three-car garage can even be as high as 30' x 60'.
Remember to allow extra room to open all three doors without hitting another door or hitting a wall. Opening and closing doors in a hurry can damage the doors if the garage is too crowded. You must allow two feet of space in front of and behind larger vehicles.
Also, you need at least two to three feet between each car and two to three feet between the car and the side wall. If you have a plot that big, a few extra meters between each car and between the car and the wall will make things more comfortable.
Three-car garages range in width from 32 to 40 feet and depths from 20 to 30 feet. Likewise, the door can be anywhere from 8 to 16 feet wide. The most common sizes for three-car garages are 24' x 22' and 30' x 30'. The area required for a three-compartment van is approximately 620 to 816 square feet. Can be 7 to 8 feet tall.
Again, these are standard sizes, you will need to measure your car and determine what fits you best. For example, if you own three large cars, your requirements may vary. Remember, if you make your garage larger or slightly larger than you think it needs to be, you won't regret it.
9.4.2 Fees
Compared to a one-car garage versus a two-car garage, a three-car garage won't cost much more than a traditional two-car garage. However, it will offer more space than a two-car garage. So if you have a lot of space, even if you have two cars, you can choose this type of garage. Additional room for a third car can be used as work space or storage.
9.4.3 Architecture and Design
A three-car garage offers more flexibility in design and construction than a two-car garage. For example, you might have one large garage door, one double garage door and one single garage door, or three single garage doors. Double and single doors are the most popular options. Your choice will depend on how you intend to use the garage and how it will look next to your home. People often have custom built three car garages.
If you only have two cars, you can install double doors for the vehicles and a single door for the third, which can be used as a study or work area. Alternatively, you can place a bench on the inside of the door and keep it closed at all times. This will give you more space to work and privacy.
9.4.4 Things to consider
When building a three-car garage, keep the following in mind:
- If you are a sports enthusiast, you probably need space to store your sports equipment.
- If you or someone in your home needs to use a wheelchair, you should design your garage accordingly.
- If you only intend to park two vehicles, you can use the additional storage fee. However, if you have three vehicles, be sure to add extra storage.
- If you need to install a freezer or refrigerator in your garage, consider the space required.
- Do you need extra shelves to store things? Add more space where you plan to place them.
- Lawn mowers, snow blowers, garden equipment, and carts will require plenty of additional space.
- If you're building an attached garage, keep in mind that sometimes the garage's floor and the house's floor may be different; the house can be on a higher level. In this case, you'll need extra space for the few steps from the house to the garage. Since these steps will be attached to the garage, you will need 10 inches per step (the part you are stepping on).
- You may want to install bumpers on the front wall of the garage so cars don't hit the wall and damage the vehicle or structure. You need to add space for this too.
9.5 Four-car garage
9.5.1 Dimensions
Four-car garages must have a minimum size of 36' x 22'. Garage widths range from 36 to 44 feet, while depths range from 20 to 30 feet. Doors can be 8 to 16 feet wide. The most common dimensions for a four car garage are 36' x 22' or 38' x 36'. The approximate size of a four-car garage is approximately 800 to 1,056 square feet.
9.5.2 Design and Architecture
This type of garage is uncommon and usually found on properties with a lot of space. Its size dwarfs a two-car garage. People who like to collect cars as a hobby often build such garages or people who own large homes. Due to their size, detached garages are ideal in these situations. Four-car garages often have custom features and upgrades compared to smaller garages, such as raised ceilings, insulated garage doors, and upgraded shingles.
A four-car garage is more like two two-car garages side by side. They have a shallow and broad shape. One way to style them is to build them square, with two cars in the front and two in the back, rather than four cars side by side. You can have two large garage doors, one for two cars. Of course, you can also have only one door per car.
If you have two or three cars, you can always use the remaining area as work or storage space.
SUV 9.6
If you are building an SUV garage, you need to check the dimensions of your vehicle. For example, you need a garage of different sizes to store a crossover SUV, a mid-size SUV, or a full-size SUV.
9.6.1 Dimensions and design
Crossover SUVs are 15 to 15.5 feet long and about 6 feet wide. If you want a garage for two or three SUVs, multiply that length and add room in the middle to open the doors. Check the height of the car so that the roof is not built too low. A standard single-span SUV garage door is 7 feet high and 8 feet wide.
Midsize SUVs are typically 16 to 16.5 feet long and about 6 feet wide. We're talking SUVs like the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Kia Telluride, or other modern options. These SUVs are taller than crossover SUVs, so keep that in mind when building your roof and garage doors.
A Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Suburban, or Ford Expedition are full-size SUVs. They are approximately 6.6 feet tall and 7 feet wide. You will have to opt for larger doors for these SUVs. For example, a standard garage door that can accommodate two large SUVs is 16 feet wide and 7 feet high.
No matter what size SUV you own, you need to measure its length and allow room for maneuvering. Keep zoning regulations in mind when building these garages, as you may need to sign a consent form.
9.7 For trucks
The garage for the truck will again depend on the size of the vehicle you have. For example, you may have a full-size or mixed-size truck. A midsize pickup could be a Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger, or Toyota Tacoma. A full-size pickup could be a RAM 1500, Ford F-150, or Toyota Tundra.
9.7.1 Dimensions
A medium truck needs at least 17-18 feet of wall with a width of about 6-7 feet. Be sure to maintain a height of 6 to 6.5 feet. To be safe, you need a garage that is at least 20 feet deep.
On the other hand, a fully loaded truck is about 20 feet long, so you'll need a larger garage. Your garage needs to be at least a few feet long. Larger trucks can be 6 to 7 feet wide and 6 to 6.5 feet tall.
9.8 Low Budget Garage
Only some homeowners may have the space or funds to build the large garages we discussed or the smaller ones. However, you'll need to designate a space or at least some gear storage for your car. In that case, here are some alternatives to consider and still maintain the aesthetics of the front of the house. These are cheaper structures that are easier to build and are permanent. You can also have a lightweight and portable car cover that can be kept in the car and used when needed.
9.8.1 Sheds
The shed is more convenient for storing equipment such as lawn mowers, garden tools or other items. They're usually not big enough for larger vehicles, but they can protect smaller cars. You can get custom or off-the-shelf sheds that you can buy and have shipped to your property.
Steel sheds are stronger, but some people may prefer wood construction. A shed made of wood can look beautiful if you put in a lot of effort and design it carefully.
It will be helpful if you choose any option that is profitable for you. When deciding on building materials, keep in mind why you need a shed. Best of all, sheds don't cost a lot and don't take up much space. The downside is that it doesn't offer much storage space and may not protect your car from the elements like a garage can.
9.8.2 Garage
A carport is another option if you only have one car. It's just a roof that shades the vehicle from the sun, and it's easy and cost-effective to build. You only need to know the size, not living space or storage space. Leave more room for off-center parking spots. Size the garage according to the size of the car and allow a 6-foot width to open the doors on both sides at the same time.
A carport will provide your car with the necessary protection from rain and snow. Thanks to its simple construction, you can build an attached or detached carport. It's so cost-effective that you can keep costs down by making it a DIY project. This is especially useful if your property does not have enough space for a garage.
The downside is that a carport doesn't provide complete protection, but it can save you from having to shovel snow from your car. Also, you won't have any storage space like a garage or shed.
9.8.3 Awnings
An awning is similar to a carport. The difference, however, is that an awning is usually attached to another structure, such as a house. It protects the car from snow or anything that falls on the car. Canopies are structures that extend outward to provide shade and protection to equipment or cars below.
Awnings are usually placed over patio or deck areas, but you can also place them over driveways. It's easy to set up, and you can do it as a DIY project, just like a carport. As long as you have space next to your house, you can buy and install two awnings (since one probably won't be long enough). That should be enough to protect the car.
This can be cost-effective, depending on the material used to make the awning and how long you need it. The good thing is that it won't take you long to put together, and you can also buy a retractable one. The downside is that awnings aren't cheap, and if you're on a budget, a carport might work better. It's all up to your choice, and it's an option to consider.
9.8.4 Telescopic tent
Another option you can consider is a retractable tent. These are portable awnings that are much easier to use. The sides of the retractable tent are open and there is a roof to protect the car from the sun, rain or snow.
It's easy to set up and you can set it up anywhere to protect your car. You can take it in the car on long trips or trips, and use it quickly in emergencies. Another advantage is that you can use it as an open tent. It is much cheaper than an awning. The only downside is that it doesn't have the storage space and heavy duty protection of a garage.
9.9 Best Garages by Size
Ultimately, which type of garage is best for your needs will depend on how you plan to use it. There is no ideal size that fits any particular person. Before finalizing your particular choice, just ask yourself a few questions:
- Do you want to store your bike in it?
- Do you spend a lot of time in the garage?
- What car would you keep in the garage? Is it a small, medium or large vehicle?
- Do you want to live above a garage?
- Do you want a workbench and cabinets?
- Do you keep flammable items in your garage?
- Do you have a termite problem in your area that can damage wooden garages?
The answers to all of these questions will give you an idea of what kind of garage is right for you. For example, if you have a termite problem in your neighborhood, you might choose a strong, durable metal frame that can withstand termites, strong winds, and even the force of an earthquake. Steel garages will last longer and these are the best building materials for metal.
Also, if you plan to build your home over a garage, you should opt for a detached garage. If you want to store your bike, you need extra space. If you store flammable materials in the garage, you will need a detached garage because the fire will not spread to the main house.
9.10 Best Secure Garage Doors
Garage doors come in all shapes and sizes. Many people choose the door that works best for their garage or home in general. However, the garage door is also a security feature that will determine the safety of your car. Today you have your anti-theft garage door. But no garage door can be guaranteed to be 100% secure. It's just that some doors are safer than others.
A skilled thief can break into a garage in minutes. They can use a coat hanger or brute force to safely pull on the garage release lever to break the old door. They can also use tools to remove the garage door lock mechanism from the outside. So make sure you have a modern garage door with the right security features.
Here are some of the safest garage doors:
- Sectional Garage Doors
These are the most popular residential garage doors. These garage doors include hinges that allow the horizontal sections to separate and slide through when you open the door. Therefore, the sectional door is small in size and easy to operate.
- roll up garage door
Roller or roller garage doors consist of horizontal slats with rollers that allow them to be opened and closed. You can strengthen double-walled roller garage doors by using them and making the bottom slats durable.
- side swing garage door
These garage doors are popular due to their attractive appearance. They create a "French door" style opening by opening from the intersection of two door pieces. They add a touch of luxury to your garage and are especially useful if you see more pedestrian activity than car traffic.
- Up and Down Garage Doors
Because they move vertically up and stop in an almost horizontal position above the garage, overhead garage doors are comparable to sectional doors. Make sure the overhead garage door you're considering has multiple locking points. Eurocinyl anti-click locks are also very effective at deterring thieves.
- automatic garage door
Automatic garage doors can be the best security system for your garage. These popular garage doors can be opened and closed with a button or security code. They are convenient for vehicles because you can use the wireless remote to open the doors from inside the car. These are considered one of the best garage doors to deter burglars.
10. What is the current demand for garage functions in the United States?
The type of garage you choose also depends on your location. For example, in Telluride, Colorado, a historic mining town turned ski town, you can boost the price of a home by 20% or more just by adding a garage.
In Mountain Village, another nearby town, owning a large garage can add a 10% resale rebate. Many homes here have three-car garages for ATVs, sports cars, and even golf carts. In places like Maplewood, NJ, you are not allowed to remove the garage unless you replace it. There are only 18 households in the town without garages.
It is always beneficial to have a large garage as you will always need more space in the future. Soon your child will need a car of his own. Plus, if you have a small car now, you may need a bigger car in the future. Also, if you have frequent visitors, you may need to make way for passenger vehicles.
Today, only some new houses have garages. Most of them have a two-car garage or larger structure. But what exactly do residents think of their garages as essential features?
It all depends on your needs, wishes and budget. Let's talk about some of these features.
- neat and clean garage
Having a clean, safe and sturdy garage is the most important thinghome buyersI wanted it and I liked it right away. Make sure not to use the garage as a dump. Don't fill it with stuff you don't need over the years. This can damage your garage and become a breeding ground for bugs and bacteria. Clean any equipment you store here regularly and use antimicrobial or antimicrobial finishes on surfaces.
- interior floors and walls
Cleaning garage floors can be a pain at times, so floor coatings like epoxy can make the job a little more manageable. Today, you can choose from a wide variety of colors and textures. It can match the interior of your home, or have neutral shades like dust-hiding gray.
- Air conditioning and other extras
If you plan on staying in the garage for extended periods of time, or if you have a residence upstairs, you can include climate control for four-season use. Insulating walls and ceilings will reduce energy loss and improve temperature maintenance.
- storage options
Many people use the garage to store unwanted items that they don't use very often. Therefore, you need to decide what kind of storage cabinet or shelf to use. Adding slats and other systems along the walls is a great idea for adding cabinets, drawers, and bins later. Additional features include an upper rack that can be reached by a ladder or pulley system. You can also add nice or stronger lighting to make things brighter.
A good thing you can do is leave plenty of room for future expansions or additions. Installing an adjustable system will ensure that you will only need to make minimal adjustments in the future. Plus, storing items on the ground protects them from flooding and gives you more room to store equipment or motor vehicles.
- Windows
Windows on or just below the garage roof are becoming more and more popular these days, especially in pricier garages. This breaks up the monolithic slab look of the garage. Some people can even place the windows on one side, such as in a front-load garage.
- door style
Galvanized metal doors or even vinyl doors are low maintenance and durable. You can choose a door to match the style of your home, or give it a completely contrasting look. Some people make their garage look more glamorous than their house. You can choose according to color, style and material.
Adding exterior lights, automatic controls, and smartphone controls can also make your garage door more attractive. This is especially true since people use garage doors as entrances and exits to their homes, rather than attached garages. Installing cameras will be more secure and also help to verify the delivery of the package.
- Electric Vehicle Charging Station
As electric vehicles become more popular, people are adding home charging stations to their garages. Even if they don't have an electric car, people are starting to ask for the groundwork to be done when deciding to buy one. New homes often come with one charging point, sometimes two.
- car lift
If you're a car junkie or want to add something nice to your car, you can increase the height of your garage and install a car lift. This will ensure that even if you have more or larger cars, you don't have to add level area to your garage.
- play or work space
Keep in mind that many people prefer to build a private study in their garage or use it as a work space. If it is a detached garage, a living room can be built on it. They can also use it as an entertainment area. Some people liven up their garages for entertaining guests during the holidays.
You can showcase your car, add a lounge bar, music system, color changing LED lights, a big TV, or even a kid's cubby. What you can do in your garage is entirely up to your imagination.
Bottom line:
It goes without saying that the garage is one of the most important and most overlooked structures in your home. A spacious and well-thought-out garage can add value and beauty to your home. However, a poorly built garage can take a toll on your home. So, before you build one, know your requirements and budget.
FAQs
What is the difference between a detached garage and an attached garage? ›
Detached vs. Attached Garages. Just as the name suggests, an attached garage is one that is connected to your home, sharing one wall and featuring direct access into the house. A detached garage is one that is free standing and completely separate from your home, whether a few feet or several yards away.
What is a semi detached garage? ›Semi-detached, Breezeway Garages Distinct Feature(s)
They are connected to the house by a breezeway (connecting walkway, enclosed or semi-enclosed) There is no direct connection between garage and your home. Permanent Structures.
According to HomeAdvisor, as of January 2023, the typical price range to build an attached garage is $16,216 to $39,077, or $50 per square foot. The typical price range to build a detached garage is $19,200 to $45,000, or $40 to $70 per square foot.
What is the difference between an integral garage and an attached garage? ›An integral garage is also known as integrated or attached. Simply put, it means your garage is connected to the main property, rather than a separate structure. This type of structure is often the most suitable for conversion because many of the costs associated with converting a detached garage can be negated.
What is the difference between attached and detached? ›What is an attached family home? An attached family home is typically defined as a family residence that shares an element, such as a wall or ceiling/floor, with another property. Contrast this with a detached home, where the residence is in a building that stands alone.
What size is an attached garage? ›On average, a one-car garage is 12 feet wide and 22 feet deep. Other common sizes are 14 x 22 feet, 16 feet x 24 feet, and 14 x 24 feet. These bigger one-car garages are great for storage space in addition to the space for your vehicle. Two-car garage dimensions are generally 18 feet wide by 20 feet deep.
What is the difference between detached and semi-detached? ›Here is an explanation of the specific housing terms, which can sometimes be confusing: Detached house: a stand-alone, unattached house. Semi-detached house: a house that is only attached to another house by one side. Terraced house: a house that is completely attached by both sides.
What is the difference between detached and semi-detached building? ›A semi-detached house (often abbreviated to semi) is a single family duplex dwelling house that shares one common wall with the next house. The name distinguishes this style of house from detached houses, with no shared walls, and terraced houses, with a shared wall on both sides.
What is the difference between single and semi-detached? ›A semi-detached home is a single-family home that is built to share one common wall with the home beside it. For many homebuyers, this is a preferable choice over a townhome because not only does each home have its own entrance and surrounding land, but there is also more privacy with only one connected wall.
Which is cheaper attached or detached garage? ›It is generally cheaper to build an attached garage than it is to build a detached garage. That's because an attached garage utilizes the existing structure of your home and only requires you to build three walls.
What are the disadvantages of an attached garage? ›
Attached garages can be more difficult to secure, especially if they use an electric door opener. The large doors can give would-be criminals a way directly into your home with more ease than a locked front door.
What is the disadvantage of a detached garage? ›One of the biggest cons of a detached garage can be that it is often less convenient than an attached garage. Being separate from the home, you have to traverse outside to access it and you lose the convenience of staying indoors and having that weather protection.
Is it better to have an attached or detached garage? ›An attached garage is simply much easier to access than a detached garage. It's more convenient and easier to pop back and forth between the house and the garage when all that separates the two is one door, instead of an entire driveway's worth of space.
Are attached garages worth more? ›Regarding ROI, attached garages provide more value, mainly because they're cheaper to build or renovate. Regardless of the type of structure, one thing is clear: bigger is better. Two car garages have more favorable ROIs than one car garages universally.
Are detached garages worth more than attached? ›Also, since you are building more walls, some estimates put detached garages at a higher price point than attached alternatives. It is important to note that while this is true, there is also additional labor involved in attaching a new structure to an existing external wall.
What is the attachment detachment rule? ›The Law of Detachment states that in order to manifest our desires, we must release attachment to the outcome itself as well as the path we might take to get there.
What are the benefits of a detached garage? ›Detached garages will reduce the risk of fumes getting into your living space. Furthermore, you can feel more at ease storing gas, oil and other fire hazards in the garage because it does not share a wall with the house. Also, detached garages may provide more security.
What is attached detached? ›Attached (ATTACHD): An element of the residence's construction (such as a wall, ceiling, or floor) is shared with another property. Condominiums excluded. Detached (DETACHD): A stand-alone residence, excluding manufactured homes, for which the sale includes the land on which the residence is located.
Does an attached garage add square footage? ›Does the garage count in the square footage of a house? The garage does not count towards the square footage of a house, as that is considered an unfinished space. A garage will only count towards the square footage of a home is if it has been legally converted into a living space.
What size is a 2-car attached garage? ›Generally, your standard 2-car garage has a depth of 20 feet from front to back. The width of the door hangs around 16 feet, with an interior width of 18 feet. To know the total square footage, just multiply the length and width. However, if you're not up for calculations, the average square footage is around 360 sq.
How big is a 24x24 garage? ›
24x24 2-Car Garages -- 576 sq ft -- 9ft Walls -- PDF Floor Plan -- Instant Download -- Models 1 and.
Does semi-detached mean? ›A house that is semi-detached is one that is joined to another similar house on only one side: They live in a semi-detached house. Compare. detached (SEPARATE) Houses & homes.
How much more is a detached to a semi? ›There's no easy answer as to whether a link-detached house is worth the same as a detached house. The truth is that detached houses are worth more than semi-detached houses (around 20-30% more than their semi-detached counterparts of a similar size).
Why is semi-detached better? ›Larger living space
The luxury of moving into a semi-detached home compared to a townhouse or an apartment is that it offers more space. Not only does this apply to the interior of the home (semi's tend to be more spacious than a townhouse) but the biggest space gain also comes from having your own backyard.
What Is A Semi-Detached House? A semi-detached house is a house with one common wall or some other element (like a garage or fence) shared with the other half of the property i.e a different family. A semi-detached house is not as expensive as a detached house but more expensive than condos and townhouses.
What is the opposite of a semi-detached house? ›Plural. semi-detached houses. (countable) A semi-detached house is a house that has a common wall with another house. Antonym: detached house.
What is the definition of a detached building? ›A single dwelling not attached to any other dwelling or structure (except its own garage or shed).
Is semi-detached the same as attached? ›What is a Semi-Detached Building? Semi-detached buildings are pairs of buildings attached in the middle that do not qualify as attached buildings. A Semi-Detached Building is any building that is abutting one other building and does not qualify as an attached building, It is surrounded by yards on three sides.
Is semi-detached worth it? ›Compared to the price of a single-family house, semi-detached housing is quite a cost-effective option. It is cheaper to buy, which makes it particularly attractive when looking for a first property, and it allows homeowners to reduce certain recurring expenses.
What wall is between semi-detached? ›A party wall (occasionally parti-wall or parting wall, also known as common wall or as a demising wall) is a wall shared by two adjoining properties. Typically, the builder lays the wall along a property line dividing two terraced houses, so that one half of the wall's thickness lies on each side.
Does finishing a detached garage add value to your home? ›
Does a finished garage add value? Real estate agents say finishing your garage may add almost $10,000 to a home's worth by making it more appealing to prospective buyers. A garage's worth is increased more by finishing than converting it. Converting your garage may actually lower the home's value.
What is the most expensive part of building a garage? ›Skilled labor ranging from floor plan design to garage door opener installation is often the most expensive part of any construction budget.
Is an attached garage a good investment? ›A New Garage Means Increased Home Value
While that's a solid sum of money, when you consider that a garage will bump up the value of your home, it makes financial sense. You'll see plenty of your investment back when you sell your home. You might even recoup the entire investment or more.
Building over an existing garage can be a great way to gain an extra bedroom or master suite, a study or guest bedroom. Whether the garage is attached to the house or detached does not affect whether you can extend above it.
Are attached garages usually insulated? ›Garage walls are usually not adequately insulated, especially if the garage is separate from the rest of your house. So, if you plan on using a garage other than parking your car, you should go for wall insulation. If not insulated, it can disturb the cooling/heating process inside your garage.
Is an attached garage safer? ›However, remember that a well-sealed garage requires adequate ventilation to maintain healthy indoor air quality. In terms of safety and energy efficiency, detached garages are considered the best choice.
Why are attached garages lower than house? ›Building codes used to stipulate that the floor of an attached garage be four inches lower than the floor level of the house. The rationale for requiring this little step was that it would prevent spilled gasoline, gasoline vapors, and carbon monoxide from getting inside the house.
Why do older homes have detached garages? ›When cars first became popular, they were parked outside. After a while, people wanted somewhere to store their cars. This is where the detached garage comes in. However, over the years detached garages faded out, and attached garages became the garage of choice.
Should a detached garage have windows? ›Garages can be dark and damp spaces, especially if there are no windows to welcome in fresh air and bright sunlight. Garages with windows allow for better ventilation and airflow, so they're less musty. This can be a key advantage when you use your garage for storage or as a work area.
Does an attached garage stay warmer than outside? ›Garages act as a nice buffer as far as temperature goes from the outdoors to inside your home. Garages should be warmer than outside, and, though they may not always be as warm as your home indoors, you should be able to go from your home to your garage to grab something without having to put on all your winter layers.
How important is an attached garage? ›
Having an attached garage connected to your house allows for easy and convenient access to the dwelling, particularly during inclement weather. However, it may also result in increased noise transfer from the garage to the living space and limits design flexibility compared to a detached garage.
What adds more value a garage or extra room? ›Ask any homeowner what they'd change about their property and the answer is almost always the same: more space.
How much value does a 3 car garage add to your home? ›In general, a garage of any kind adds between $15,000 to $40,000 to a property's value, with a three car garage adding $50,000 more to the property value than a two car garage.
Which is more expensive an attached garage or detached garage? ›Cost is a factor with home renovations, so an attached garage may be a better option for your budget. These typically cost less since one wall already exists, and you're constructing an addition to the home rather than starting from scratch.
How to save money building a detached garage? ›- Forgo the windows or skylights. ...
- Build to size. ...
- Eliminate upgrades and accessories. ...
- Install your own shelving or cabinets. ...
- Do the finishing work yourself. ...
- Choose an asphalt shingle roof. ...
- Use reclaimed wood. ...
- Speak with a contractor.
Detached vs.
Because you're adding on to the existing structure, an attached garage only requires the construction of three walls instead of four. A detached garage of the same size would likely cost more since it's an entirely new construction project that involves more labor and materials.
Detached garages will reduce the risk of fumes getting into your living space. Furthermore, you can feel more at ease storing gas, oil and other fire hazards in the garage because it does not share a wall with the house. Also, detached garages may provide more security.
How much value does an attached garage add? ›Typically, the ROI of a garage addition is sixty-four to eighty-one percent, adding an estimated $20,000 to $35,000 to your home's value.
Is it safe to have an attached garage? ›Garages carry one of the biggest risks of Carbon Monoxide CO poisoning. Most poisoning cases are small and go undiagnosed. Cumulative health effects are best avoided.
Is adding an attached garage a good investment? ›A New Garage Means Increased Home Value
While that's a solid sum of money, when you consider that a garage will bump up the value of your home, it makes financial sense. You'll see plenty of your investment back when you sell your home. You might even recoup the entire investment or more.
Is attached garage included in livable square footage? ›
Does the garage count in the square footage of a house? The garage does not count towards the square footage of a house, as that is considered an unfinished space. A garage will only count towards the square footage of a home is if it has been legally converted into a living space.
Are attached garages warmer than outside? ›Garages act as a nice buffer as far as temperature goes from the outdoors to inside your home. Garages should be warmer than outside, and, though they may not always be as warm as your home indoors, you should be able to go from your home to your garage to grab something without having to put on all your winter layers.