Buidling a Detached Garage: Things to Consider

Building a detached garage is a great way to add value to your property while also creating more space for item storage or to use as a workshop, home gym or the classic vehicle storage. However, before you begin construction, there are several things you need to consider to ensure your project is a success. From the first stages of planning to the final trim nail Apex Homes is here to help!

Zoning and Building Codes  

Before starting any construction project, we must check with the appropriate local government agencies to ensure we comply with zoning laws and building codes specific to your area. A building permit must be applied for, during this process all appropriate easements, setbacks, blueprint details and applicable restrictions on the size and location of your garage must be accounted for. 

Size and Style

When planning your detached garage, consider how much space you need, what features you'd like and what style will complement your home. Consider the number and size of vehicles you need to store, and if you want to include additional space for a workshop or storage. If you're not entirely sure what you need that's alright too, we've done this before and are here to help! 

Foundation and Flooring 

The foundation is a critical component of any building, including a detached garage. As they say, you can't build a strong home (garage in this case) without a solid foundation to start on. This is arguably the most important step in building a detached garage, it's also the step most homeowners know the least about; thankfully the Apex Homes team is dedicated to the education and understanding to our clients, of all steps during the building process. You'll need to decide on the type of foundation, such as a monolithic concrete slab, pier and beam, traditional trench footing foundation and consider the slope of the land. Each foundation type has its own set of pros and cons, something we thoroughly examine during the early planning stages. Flooring options can range from concrete to wood, and your choice will depend on your needs and budget.

Electrical and Lighting

Whatever you plan to use your garage for, we will need to ensure it has adequate electrical outlets and lighting. We often install a separate electrical panel to handle the additional load, especially when features such as 220V service, overhead shop lighting or heaters are added.

Plumbing and HVAC

If you plan to use your detached garage as a living space or workshop, you may need to install plumbing and HVAC systems. This can add significantly to the cost of the project, so it's important to consider your needs carefully. Additionally, the codes surrounding these systems is extremely stringent, careful planning, coordination and plan review with the building and safety and planning departments is required to ensure the feasibility of these additional services. 

Security

A detached garage can be a target for theft, so it's important to include security measures such as tamper resistant doors and windows, motion sensor lights, garage door locks and an alarm system. 

Budget

Finally, it's important to consider your budget when planning your detached garage. Costs can vary widely depending on the size, style, features added, and materials used, so it's important to work closely with your contractor and plan carefully to ensure your project stays within your budget. Apex Homes is an expert in our field and can help you build the best garage for your needs and budget. 

In conclusion, building a detached garage is a significant undertaking, and there are many factors to consider to ensure a successful project. With careful planning and considering all these factors, we can create a functional and attractive addition to your property that adds value and meets your needs. Are you ready to start your detached garage project, drop us a line on our contract us page or give us a ring at 402-937-6688!