Converting a garage into a living space or entertainment room adds value and function to a home. However, there are conversion costs. It does not come cheap in most cases.
Transforming a standard garage into a fully functional and inhabitable space is a building project. This means a garage conversion can cost as much as $75,000.
This might seem like a very high price tag (considering you can renovate a house for as much), but several factors contribute to the costs.
These include structural requirements, insulation, electrical work, and plumbing. All that does not even consider the finishes.
Before converting your garage, you must ensure the existing structure can support the planned modifications. Garages are not necessarily built in the same way as traditional living spaces. This means you will have to consider structural reinforcement and design adjustments.
For instance, your garage may have an unfinished concrete floor. You would likely have to level it and insulate it. You also need moisture barriers to make them suitable for a living space. The cost is higher if you add subfloors, carpeting, or hardwood.
If your garage has unfinished walls, these must be insulated and weatherproofed. You will also need to frame and finish the walls and add windows if there aren’t any.
Depending on your location and local building codes, you may need multiple permits for structural changes, additions, and electrical and plumbing work. Permit fees also vary by location but can add a substantial amount to conversion costs.
Insulation is essential for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. It will also help reduce your energy bills. However, the upfront costs of adding insulation to garage floors, walls, and ceilings can increase costs by a wide margin.
You will also have to seal your garage if it is not airtight. This involves sealing gaps and cracks that allow drafts or pests to enter.
You will need additional electricity outlets to make your garage suitable for living or functional use. Many garages only have minimal wiring, sufficient for one or two outlets and a light.
Converting this to a more functional scenario means adding more outlets, switches, and fixtures. An electrician may need to rewire parts of the space while installing overhead lighting. If you add dimmers and task lighting, this drives up the cost.
Your breaker panel may also need an upgrade if it cannot handle the increased or additional circuit. This is an expensive undertaking, but necessary for safety.
Plumbing will become a significant cost factor if you want your garage conversion to include a bathroom, kitchen, or laundry. Moreover, extending your home’s HVAC system to the garage is necessary to ensure comfortable indoor temperatures.
Installing plumbing lines for a new bathroom or kitchen is often the most expensive part of a garage conversion. If your garage is not attached to your home, you will need new pipes, water heaters, and drainage systems.
Extending the existing HVAC system may include ductwork, new vents, or a new unit if your existing system does not have enough capacity. You could also opt for a standalone ductless mini-split system, but it will also add to your budget.
You can complete the interior when your garage is converted into a functional shell. This is also the part that can drive up the cost of your conversion by a lot.
It will cost you money if you want to add laminate, tile, or carpet. This is especially true for hardwood or vinyl. Another cost driver is drywall and painting. Drywall is not only good for insulation but also helps with soundproofing. This and the paint will also cost you money.
If you want upscale finishes, it will also increase costs, especially if you are going for a luxury conversion.
Depending on whether you have an attached or detached garage, you will want to replace the door or enclose the space. If you remove the door, you can add windows or French doors. You may also want to add a standard door and large window if you have an attached garage.
Custom additions like reinforced flooring, built-ins, and storage solutions can be added. Still, this will all increase the cost of your garage conversion.
Even though a garage conversion can cost you tens of thousands of dollars, the final product is highly appealing. You will have a functional space where you can either live or work. Plus, it gives you more space to work with if your house suddenly fills up with friends and family members.
Even better, a garage conversion increases the value of your home because most home buyers appreciate extra space.
Understanding these factors mentioned above can help you set a realistic budget for your garage conversion. This will ensure you add value, comfort, and function to your property.
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