A garage conversion can be an affordable way to gain living space. After all, you already have the foundation, the walls, the electrical system, and a roof. But there are several factors to consider before taking on a garage conversion, such as what to do with everything that you are already storing in the garage, including your car. For example, if you live in the South you have to accept potential sun damage to your car and if you live in the North, you will be digging your car out of the snow. In addition, parking outside increases the risk of your car being broken into, and some HOA’s just will not allow it.
It is important to be aware of all the permits you will need to complete your garage conversion. Generally, in order to get the necessary permits, you’ll need to draw up your overall plans and take them to your local permitting office to be looked over and approved. If a contractor is handling all of the work, a reputable one will take care of the permits for you.
After taking all of that in consideration there are a few big items that will need to be address. First off, the garage floor. A garage floor may have a slope to allow water to drain out of the garage. Adding a moisture barrier and insulation before applying new flooring and leveling out the garage should be part of the plan.
There is heating and cooling to consider. Insulating the walls and the ceiling is a must. As far as temperature control, ductless heating and cooling (mini-split systems) is a great alternative for a garage conversion but can be expensive. Extending your existing HVAC is also a possibility or another option is a radiant floor heating system which is relatively easy to install on an existing concrete slab. Regardless of the type of HVAC you choose, you will need to consider the existing wiring in the garage not only for the HVAC but also for the total amount of electrical usage the converted space will need.
However, the biggest question facing most garage conversions is what to do about the garage door. Once you remove the door, what do you do with that opening? You certainly want it to blend with the rest of the house but also want it to be functional. Possible options include installing a patio door or framing a new wall that includes a large picture window or bay window but there is a new option; a Contour Closures Horizontal Garage Door system.
The Contour Closures Horizontal Garage Door System has many options for design, including a glass door or you could design the door to match your house. With the partial opening provided by the horizontal garage door, you do not have to open the door all the way to get out of the garage. The door can pass behind a false wall so it literally disappears when opened and there is no overhead hardware freeing up the ceiling for lighting or even a projector. This is also a popular option for opening your home to the outdoor living space and the door hides behind the cabinetry when fully open.
The best course of action is to think hard about how you can make the exterior of the converted space look like it has always been a part of the house, rather than an afterthought. Try to match the siding, colors, windows and door styles. Done properly, a garage conversion can a seamless addition to your home and Contour Closures Inc. is here to help.
