A detached garage conversion is one of many ways to add much needed living space to your home. However, a detached garage will require more work than one that is an integral part of your existing build. If your garage is set to one side of your home, either completed or partially detached, there are additional costs and considerations to think about when converting it to living space.
Detached Garage Conversion : Damp Proofing, Flooring, Ceiling, and More
Modern homes tend to have integral garages that have the same floor level as the rest of your home. They will also be damp-proofed and often have a supply of running water and perhaps even gas. A totally detached garage however will have been built with the sole purpose of storing vehicles. So, asides a single bulb or strip light, your garage will be little more than an empty shell. The walls may have no insulation in them, and the roof may be a very simple structure.
So, is it really worth converting a detached garage to living space? The answer to this depends on how badly you need the extra space, and how much money you are willing to spend. Also, what use will you have for your detached garage? Unless you can access the garage from your home itself, a good use may be a separate studio flat or guest room with en-suite.
Floors and Walls
A basic brick garage will have no damp course and a simple concrete floor. The roof will also have no insulation, and could be made from a wide variety of simple materials. So, when converting this type of garage, there are obviously some additional expenses. These will include insulating the floor, walls, and roof. You will need to add a damp course, and probably additional windows and a door.
A detached garage conversion can still work out to be substantially cheaper than a loft or basement conversion. So, all is not lost. But, to be able to use your new space for living accommodation, the build will need to pass some quality controls. This is why it is important to use the services of a professional garage conversion team to carry out the work. Although it will cost you more than to do the work yourself, all aspects of the build, both physical and legal will be taken care of for you.
Final Note
Lastly, before going ahead with a detached garage conversion, think about where you will park your car or other vehicles. If you have sufficient off-road parking, then adding a carport is a good idea. When it comes to selling on a property, many people are put off when they view a property that has no garage space. With the UK weather being harsh and cold, it is always a better idea where possible to have covered parking space, preferably as a garage or a covered carport that will protect your vehicle from rain, snow, and even the hot summer sun!