Building a two-car garage is not only a practical addition, but it can also be an aesthetic enhancement to your home. Two-car garages are a stylish way to protect (and show off) your car, and you get enough storage for items that do not fit into your home.
If you do not have a garage and want to build one, it is important to remember that the minimum width for a two-car garage is 20 feet. It is essential for parking two average-sized vehicles side by side.
It is also crucial to avoid these next mistakes to ensure you have a garage that is actually functional.
Underestimating the Width and Depth Requirements
One of the biggest mistakes to avoid is not accounting for adequate width and depth when building a garage. If you have a truck or a bigger car, a width and depth of 20 feet may feel cramped. Adding an extra 4 to 6 feet provides more ease of movement and makes it less likely that you will damage your car when opening the doors.
The same goes for a 20-foot depth. This is the minimum, but if you want to store things or have a workspace in front of your car, increase the depth to at least 22 feet.
Generally speaking, the best-recommended size for a two-car garage is 24×24 feet. If you want a lot of space, 24×30 feet is the way to go.
Not Planning Properly
Whether your garage is attached or detached, it is still an important part of your property. If you overlook the planning process, you will likely run into problems. To avoid this, lay out a clear plan of what you want your garage to look like.
Decide on the materials you want to use and get quotes from different builders. Look for a builder that can accommodate your budget without skimping on materials.
If you have no upfront plan, your budget will not mean much at the end of the day, and you will end up overspending.
Setting Your Budget Too Low
When you set a budget, you must account for all costs. These include foreseen and unforeseen expenses. You already know you need materials, labor, and permits. But, there is no guarantee you will not encounter surprises while the builders prep the ground for construction.
Therefore, your budget should include a contingency fund that can cover extra expenses that pop up.
Having No Design Plan
In addition to deciding on materials, size, etc., you must decide what your layout will look like. You must plan for electrical outlets, storage, and lighting. If this is your first time getting a garage built, you should work with a professional to get a proper design done.
The design also includes what the garage will look like compared to your house. Ideally, you want the garage to fit seamlessly, especially if it is attached to your house. You want to use the same architecture and materials so your garage does not become an eyesore.
Not Preparing the Foundation Properly
If you are building your garage yourself, you must prepare the soil for the foundation. This means the ground below the concrete must be graded and compacted. A concrete slab is usually the best option for a two-car garage.
If you skimp on this part and use less sturdy materials, you will probably end up with structural issues and cracks. You should make room in the budget to invest in a quality foundation and keep your garage structure stable. It will also help prevent expensive repairs in the future.
Other Factors You Cannot Ignore
Before the foundation is poured and the walls are up, you must know the insulation, ventilation, electricity, drainage, and safety plan.
Firstly, you cannot skip insulation, especially if you plan to use part of your garage as a workshop or office. Properly installed insulation ensures a comfortable indoor temperature all year round.
You also cannot ignore ventilation. If there are no windows or adequate ventilation, moisture can build up inside your garage. Not only will this make the air humid, but it can also lead to mold.
As for electricity, always add more outlets than you think you need. If you use equipment or tools, you must plan for high-amperage outlets to accommodate them.
If you plan on working at night, you must have sufficient overhead lighting installed. This is not only for function but also for safety.
Next up is drainage. A lot of people who build new garages neglect drainage. You should have a plan for water runoff to keep water away from your garage. For this purpose, you should include gutters and downspouts in your garage design.
Lastly, you cannot overlook safety measures if your garage is attached to your house. When your garage is detached, thieves do not have a direct way into your home. Remember, though, that the garage itself must have its own security system.
Security measures should include locks, cameras, and alarms. Another type of safety measure you must consider is fire safety. Your garage should include fire-resistant materials, especially those attached to your home. Proper ventilation also helps reduce the risk of fire.
Choosing A Contractor Online
When searching for a garage building contractor, you should search online for contractors in your area. But do not be tempted to just go with the first one that pops up on your phone screen.
You should compare quotes and read the reviews of each contractor first. When you decide to hire a specific contractor, never pay any money if there is no solid contract in place.
Even if you can handle the building of the garage yourself, you will likely need to hire a professional for structuring, insulation, electrical wiring, and drainage. This prevents errors that need to be fixed at an additional cost in the future.
Building a two-car garage can and should be done right the first time around. By considering the above potential mistakes and working with a professional, you can build a garage that works and lasts.
