Although it’s a challenging project to take on, it’s not unusual for homeowners to build a garage for their home. Of course, it’s a job that many people turn to the professionals for help, but it can also be carried out successfully by a homeowner who fancies testing themselves with a big build.
Before you embark on your garage-building mission, it’s worth keeping a few things in mind. After all, a number of crucial factors can make or break your garage build, making it hugely important to assess everything, carry out any necessary research, and take the time to understand your project before undertaking the building of it for yourself. All situations are different.
Decide the Purpose of Your Garage
Whether you’re in need of an outside space to house any garden tools and golf clubs, or you want a garage to store the type of speedy car that is seen in popular games like Wild Trucks and is featured in much-loved car-themed television shows like Top Gear, it’s important to understand the purpose of your garage before beginning the build. It needs to be tailored to your needs, be it in terms of space or even things like lighting, while you also need to assess whether or not the area you’ve selected is suitable for your specific requirements.
Size Specs Are Vital
Another factor to look at is to decide the exact type of garage your outside space can accommodate. For example, if you have more than one car to house, is the area you’re considering suitable? Likewise, don’t forget to factor in any shelves or storage spaces that you might require. Additionally, in order to make sure that your dream garage doesn’t come under threat in the future, you’ll need to assess local planning regulations and acquire any permission from your local authority.
Consider Materials
Once you’ve decided on the spot your garage is going to be, then you can turn your attention to the various materials you’re going to use. With a strong focus on durability and affordability, look at options like brick or timber while also assessing whether or not the choice you make will match your home and the all-around aesthetics of your property and neighboring properties. After all, you don’t want to create a garage that fails to withstand the weather, or annoys your neighbors due to its ugliness.
Don’t Ignore Security Requirements
Another key thing to keep in mind while planning the build of your garage is its security aspect, particularly if you’re storing any valuable goods in there. Garage security is paramount, especially as the building is likely to be away from your home and a target for any thieves. You’ll need sturdy doors, robust windows, an alarm system in place, perhaps a video camera, and a range of other tried and tested security measures.
Ventilation And Insulation Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Another common reason homeowners need a garage is to work out of, particularly for people who are self-employed or want a workshop space for hobbies such as woodworking. As such, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment is a must, making it important that you consider ventilation and insulation. It needs to be warm in winter, while you’ll need to create good ventilation in order to avoid any dampness building up.
Other things to consider include lighting fixtures and power outlets, the entry points of your garage, and the overall budget for your build.