Doubling Down: Costs, Benefits, and Considerations of Expanding Your Garage

Embarking on a garage expansion means adding space to your existing garage—be it for extra storage or to fit in a third (or second) car. While the perks are appealing, it’s not a project to consider unless you’re a seasoned DIYer. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs, benefits, and factors to consider when expanding your garage size. Plus, we’ll explore whether this is a project for the DIY enthusiast or one best left to the professionals.

Expanding your garage isn’t just a whim; it typically stems from practical needs. Perhaps a new driver in the family brings the need for an additional car, or the desire for a home workshop prompts the need for more space.

Assessing your current garage is the crucial first step. Understand the limitations of a one or two-car garage—tight squeezes and cramped corners can lead to frustrations. On the flip side, a larger garage provides not only room for vehicles but also the potential for a workshop haven or much-needed storage.

Before jumping into a garage expansion project, this homework ensures your decision aligns with both your current needs and future plans.

Before you get started on your project, make sure you understand the costs associated with expanding your garage. Adding another vehicle bay to your existing structure typically ranges from $60 to $120 per square foot, totaling $9,600 to $24,000 on average.

If you’re considering a second-story addition, be prepared for a more significant investment ranging from $60,000 to $200,000+, contingent on room size and features. Several factors contribute to these costs, including materials, labor, permits, and additional features like insulation or windows.

Recognizing these elements is crucial in estimating the overall expense and planning your garage expansion project within your budget.

Understanding the timeframe for your garage expansion project is important for planning and managing expectations, especially when you might need to work around the weather. Smaller projects, like adding another car bay, typically take one to two weeks, while larger endeavors, such as a second-story addition, can extend to six to eight weeks or more.

DIY projects, though enticing, might take even longer, particularly if time dedication is a challenge. Factors influencing the timeline include:

• Project size and complexity
• Weather conditions
• Availability of materials
• Permit acquisition

For homeowners seeking a fast transformation, leaving it to the professionals ensures a faster turnaround. With expertise from professionals such as the team at Ohio Garage Interiors, you can quickly regain your garage space and start enjoying the added room without the prolonged timeline often associated with DIY endeavors.

Expanding your garage isn’t just an investment in convenience; it’s an investment in your home’s value. A larger garage can significantly increase property value, attracting more potential buyers when you decide to sell. While the list price might not automatically surge, the added appeal could bring in more offers.

According to HomeAdvisor, a garage addition can yield an ROI between 75% and 85% when selling your home, translating to an increase of $12,750 to $33,150 in value, assuming you didn’t have a garage to begin with.

This return on investment holds true for various expansion scenarios, making it a financially sound decision for homeowners. Beyond the financial gains, the long-term benefits include enhanced functionality, increased living space, and a property that stands out in the real estate market.

During a garage expansion project, don’t overlook the impact of a revamped floor. It’s the opportune time to bid farewell to cold, standard concrete. Consider upgrading to polyaspartic coating, a protective layer of aliphatic polyurea. This type of flooring is a 100% solid, fast-curing, UV-resistant coating system, and it offers a range of benefits, including high quality, strength, flexibility, non-toxicity, slip resistance, stain resistance, easy maintenance, and a non-porous surface.

Beyond functionality, the new floor enhances the overall look of your expanded garage. With all contents conveniently out of the way during the expansion, taking this step ensures your garage isn’t just larger but also boasts a flooring solution that aligns with the high standards of the entire project.

Expanding your garage is a strategic investment with potential benefits ranging from increased property value to enhanced functionality. Assess your needs, consider costs, and be mindful of the long-term gains.

For a seamless expansion, including a polyaspartic coating adds not just high-end looks but durability to your new space. Choose wisely for your unique needs, and for expert guidance on garage transformations, explore Ohio Garage Interiors.