Install A Room In Your Garage

Since you already have a foundation, walls, and a roof, converting or adding a garage room is as simple as a basic remodel. Here are the basics you need to know before starting.

Adding or Renovating

Decide what kind of space you are trying to create. If you need a large bedroom or a family room, you may want to convert the entire garage into a room. If you just need a small workspace however, you may want to just add a room in the garage itself.

Building Permits

If you are going to install windows, plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems or any other major modifications, you may need a few permits. Visit your local zoning office and take care of these permits before purchasing materials.

Dealing with Walls

If you are just adding another room inside the garage, you will want to add the walls first. If you are not familiar with drywall and electrical, you may want to have a contractor help you with this. TA contractor will also be able to ensure that the walls are structurally sound and insulated.

If you have chosen to convert the entire garage you will still want to install some kind of wall material around the perimeter. Most garages are basic, and you can cover the existing walls with drywall or sheetrock. Some people opt for simple paneling as this doesn’t require as much work. But if you choose paneling remember that you won’t have as much insulation. Adding some insulation to the inside of the existing wall will be inexpensive, and go a long way in keeping your room comfortable.

Decide on Flooring

After the walls are up you can start looking at flooring. Since you probably have a concrete floor, this is perfect for carpet tiles or laminate flooring. If you want to install regular carpet you will need to invest in carpet padding as well. The carpet tiles are probably the easiest solution for room additions.

Ceilings

Most garages have very basic ceilings with exposed elements. You may want to consider adding a drop ceiling to help mask the fact that it was once a garage. These aren’t terribly hard to install, and will make the room look more like a regular home room. Other ceiling options vaulted, exposed beam, or pitched ceilings. The choice is yours depending on what you are wanting to accomplish.

Windows

Not many garages have windows, and if you do have windows they are probably high and small.

You may want to add a few windows to give the room an airier look. Since the insulation in a garage isn’t usually the greatest, you will want to install energy-efficient windows. Double-hung windows are usually easy to install and will offer a great deal of protection from air escaping from the room.