Did you know that, according to the latest American Housing Survey, 66% of US houses in 2022 had a garage or carport?¹ That means that one-third of all houses in America don’t have a garage. The numbers get worse as we move South, with more than two out of five houses without one.
That’s a lot of folks missing out on the convenience and peace of mind a garage provides. It’s also why many today are considering a garage addition as their next home renovation project.
A garage addition can be a valuable investment for your home, adding extra space for parking, storage, or even a workshop.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or planning to hire a contractor, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about garage additions in 2025, including types, designs, costs, and five creative garage addition ideas to inspire you.
Adding a Garage to Your Existing House: Is it Worth It?
Adding a garage space to your home can be a smart investment. Here are some of the benefits:
- Increased property value: A garage addition has an average return on investment (ROI) of 78%–81% of the garage’s cost as increased home value (sources: Pocket Sense and First American Home Warranty). This is a big plus if you ever decide to sell.
- Increased curb appeal: A garage can enhance your house’s aesthetic appeal, attracting potential buyers.
- More convenience: No more scraping off your windshield on those frosty mornings! A garage provides shelter from the elements and makes it easier to get in and out of your vehicle.
- Increased storage: Got tools, lawn equipment, or holiday decorations taking up space in your house? A garage gives you extra storage space to keep things organized.
- Improved safety: A garage can help protect your vehicle from theft and vandalism.
Types of Garage Addition Projects
There are a few different types of garage additions to choose from, each with different average costs, pros, and cons:
Attached Garages
Attached garages are the ones that share a wall with your home, offering easy access to your vehicle. This is especially handy when the weather’s bad. Plus, they can boost your home’s value even more than a detached garage.
These types of garage additions are often converted into living spaces, like an additional bedroom or family room.
Detached Garages
Detached garages are separate structures, giving you more flexibility in where you place them on your property. They offer more privacy and can be a good choice if you’re worried about noise or fumes from your vehicles affecting your home.
Detached metal garages are particularly popular for workshops or hobby areas because they offer better protection against fire hazards.
Choosing Between an Attached or Detached Garage
Deciding between an attached or detached garage depends on your needs and preferences. Here’s what to think about:
- Cost: Attached garages tend to be around 12% cheaper to build due to one garage wall being shared with your house.
- Convenience: Attached garages offer the ultimate convenience, especially during bad weather.
- Privacy: Detached garages provide more privacy and can be used for a wider range of purposes.
- Space: If you’re tight on space, an attached garage space might be a better option.
Steps to Add a Garage to Your Existing House
Adding a garage is a construction project, so it involves several phases, each with distinct steps:
Planning Your Garage Addition Project
Careful planning is essential. You’ll first need to decide if you’re going for an attached or detached structure. In the latter case, you must decide on the right location within your property layout.
You must also decide on the garage’s size, layout, and materials.
Think about how you plan to use the space—will it just be for parking, will it be an additional, functional living space, or will you need extra space for a workshop or storage?
Obtaining Permits
As a construction project, your garage addition has to abide by your local zoning laws. So, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits from your local building department before you start building. Doing so not only avoids legal issues down the line but also ensures your garage addition meets all the building codes and safety regulations.
Prefabricated metal garage kits sometimes have a simpler permitting process, so be sure to ask!
Construction
This is where the real work begins! Building a garage involves several phases:
- Site preparation: Clear the area and prepare the ground for the foundation.
- Foundation: Laying a strong foundation to support the weight of your garage.
- Framing: Building the walls and roof structure.
- Roofing: Installing the roofing material to protect your garage from the elements.
- Exterior finishing: Adding siding, windows, and doors to complete the exterior.
- Interior finishing: If you plan to use your garage for more than just parking, you’ll need to finish the interior with drywall, insulation, flooring, and paint.
- Installing the garage door: Choosing and installing the door and its opener. For larger garages, this could include more than one door.
Cost of a Garage Addition
Now, let’s talk about the nitty-gritty: how much will a garage addition set you back? Well, that depends on many factors.
Factors Affecting Cost
Here are some of the things that can influence the cost of your garage addition:
- Size: Bigger garages mean more materials and labor, so naturally, they’ll cost more.
- Type of foundation: A concrete slab foundation is common, but depending on your soil conditions, you might need a different type.
- Construction material: Wood is a traditional choice, but metal garages are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and low maintenance.
- Roofing: Asphalt shingles are common, but metal roofing offers greater longevity, offsetting the higher price.
- Siding: Vinyl siding is the cheapest and most popular option, but there are many other choices, like wood, brick, or even metal siding, to match your house.
- Insulation: If you plan to use your garage as a workshop or living space, you’ll need insulation to keep it comfortable year-round. Insulation can significantly impact your budget.
- Electricity: You’ll need wiring for lights, outlets, and any power tools or appliances you plan to use. Attached garages can get power directly from your home’s circuit, but detached structures need separate utilities.
- Plumbing: If you’re adding a bathroom or kitchenette to your garage, you’ll need plumbing.
- Garage door: The cost of garage doors can vary widely depending on the size, style, and material.
- Windows: Adding windows can increase the cost, but they also bring in natural light and ventilation.
- Location: Where you live can affect your insulation requirements as well as labor and material costs.
- Permits: Building permits aren’t free and depend on local zoning laws.
Estimating Costs
It’s tough to give an exact cost without knowing the specifics of your project, but here’s a rough estimate of what you might expect to pay for different parts of a traditionally built garage addition:
| Cost Item | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Foundation1,2 | $1.25–$13 per square foot |
| Framing3 | $1–$5 per square foot |
| Roofing4,5 | $1.50–14 per square foot |
| Siding6,7 | $3–$15 per square foot |
| Garage Door8,9,10 | $578–$12,500 |
| Windows11 | $580–$950 per unit |
| Entry Doors12 | $870–$1,680 per unit |
| Electricity Rough-in13 | $4–$9 per square foot |
| Wiring Run13 | $10–$25 per unit foot |
| Plumbing Rough-in14 | $4.50–$4.50 per square foot |
| Plumbing Run15 | $2.50–$15 per unit foot |
| Insulation16,17 | $0.47–$4.50 per square foot |
| Garage Door Opener18 | $440–$750 per unit |
| Building Permits19 | $150–$500 per project |
Sources: 1HomeAdvisor, 2Angi, 3AFO, 4Modernize, 5howmuch, 6Homewyse, 7Modernize, 1The Home Depot, 2HomeGuide, 3Lux Garage Doors, 8The Home Depot, 9HomeGuide, 10Lux Garage Doors, 11Homewyse, 12Homewyse,, 13HomeGuide, 14HomeGuide, 15Angi, 16Amazon, 17HomeGuide, 18Homewyse, 19HomeGuide.
You can use those numbers and your garage plans to estimate the cost of your garage structure. However, we thought we’d save you the trouble and did the math for you.
In the following table, you’ll find estimates of the total cost for different garage additions depending on their type and size. In all cases, these ranges are for garage additions with one walk-in door, two windows, and one or two garage doors of different sizes, depending on the number of cars.
| Garage Size | Square Footage | Attached Garage Cost | Detached Garage Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-car garage | 240–540 | $8,600–$49,400 | $9,800–$56,800 |
| 2-car garage | 400–720 | $11,100–$60,400 | $12,300–$67,800 |
| 3-car garage | 600–1,080 | $15,300–$85,200 | $16,500–$92,700 |
Again, these are just estimates. The true cost will vary depending on your location, the materials you choose, and your project’s complexity.
Prefab Metal Garages as a Cost-Effective Alternative
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, prefabricated metal garages can be a great choice. They’re built off-site and delivered to your property, which can save you money on labor costs.
Here’s a quick comparison of the cost ranges for prefab metal garages of different sizes:
| Garage Size | Width (feet) | Length (feet) | Square Footage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Car Garage | 12’–18′ | 20’–30′ | 240–540 | $4,665–$6,880 |
| 2-Car Garage | 20’–24′ | 20’–30′ | 400–720 | $6,215–$9,540 |
| 3-Car Garage | 30’–36′ | 20’–30′ | 600–1,080 | $9,965–$17,292 |
Source: AFO
These prices are for detached metal garages. They depend on the size of the addition you choose and the type of roofing, walk-in doors, windows, and garage doors.
It’s worth noting that those prices don’t include the foundation. If you install the garage on a concrete slab, you can expect to spend roughly an additional:
- $2,340 for the 1-car garage
- $3,360 for the 2-car garage
- $5,040 for the 3-car garage
As you can see, prefab metal garages can be significantly more affordable than traditional garages.
Design Considerations for Your Garage Addition
There are quite a few design factors to consider before you start laying the foundation.
Size and Square Footage
How big do you need your garage to be? A single-car garage is typically around 240-540 square feet, while a 2-car garage is usually 400-720 square feet. If you need space for three cars, you’ll be looking at 600-1,080 square feet. The decision will ultimately depend on your number of vehicles and any additional space you may need.
Functionality and Layout
Think about how you plan to use your garage. Will it just be for parking, or will you need it to be a livable space for a home office or workshop? Consider different real-life scenarios to make sure the layout will meet your individual needs.
Style and Aesthetics
You want your garage addition to look good with your existing house, right? Consider your house’s exterior home design and choose a garage design that complements it.
For example, if you’re a fan of log homes and your summer house has a log home design, the garage should also incorporate log siding or similar rustic wood elements to create a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.
Metal garages come in various styles and colors. Find one that matches your home aesthetic.
Roof Style and Pitch
The roof style can make a big difference in the look of your garage. Gable roofs are common and have a classic look. Hip roofs are more complex but offer better wind resistance. Metal roofs are durable and long-lasting.
At Alan’s Factory Outlet, we offer three main roof styles for our garages:
- Traditional roof: A classic gable roof with a moderate pitch.
- Boxed eave roof: A more modern style with a lower pitch and a clean, contemporary look.
- Vertical roof: This style offers superior strength and snow-shedding capabilities, which is important in areas with heavy snowfall.
Insulation and Energy Efficiency
If you plan to spend a lot of time in your garage or use it for living space, energy efficiency is important.
Insulating your garage helps regulate the temperature and reduce energy costs. Metal garages can be insulated just as effectively as traditional garages.
Ventilation Requirements
Good garage ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, reduce odors, and keep the air fresh. Ensure your garage has adequate ventilation, especially if you plan to use it as a workshop or for storing chemicals or paint.
Top Additional Features and Options for Garage Additions
Let’s dive into some of the features and options that can make your garage addition stand out from your neighbor’s.
Garage Door Selection
Your garage door is the first thing people see, so you want it to look good. But it’s not just about looks—it’s also about functionality. Here are some things to consider:
- Materials: Your choices include steel, aluminum, wood, fiberglass, or even see-through tempered glass. Steel is durable and affordable, while wood offers a classic look.
- Styles: There are many styles to choose from, including traditional raised-panel doors, carriage-style and French doors, and modern glass doors.
- Insulation: If you want to keep your garage warm in the winter and cool in the summer, consider an insulated garage door.
Windows
Windows can brighten up your garage and provide natural ventilation. They can also add some style to your garage’s exterior.
You can opt for windows with frosted glass or security bars if security is a priority.
Flooring
Concrete is the most common flooring choice for garages, but you can also choose epoxy flooring for a more durable and stain-resistant finish or vinyl flooring for a cost-effective alternative. Tile is an alternative, but is more expensive.
Storage Solutions
Garages are great for storage, but it’s easy for things to get cluttered. Here are some storage solutions to keep your garage organized:
- Wall-mounted shelves: Get those bikes and tools off the floor!
- Cabinets: Store smaller items like paint, tools, and gardening supplies.
- Overhead storage: Make use of the vertical space in your garage with overhead storage racks.
Lighting
Good garage lighting can make or break your garage addition project, especially if you plan to use it as a workshop. LED lights are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and come in different colors.
Security Additions
Keep your garage and belongings safe with these security features:
- Alarms: A security alarm is an excellent burglar deterrant and will alert you and the authorities if someone tries to break in.
- Motion-sensor lighting: Lights that turn on when they detect movement can scare off intruders.
- Security cameras: Keep an eye on your garage even when you’re not home.
5 Garage Addition Ideas
Here are some creative ideas for your garage addition:
The Workshop Wonder
If you’re a DIY enthusiast or hobbyist, a garage workshop is a dream come true.
Design your garage with plenty of space for workbenches, tool storage, and project areas. Consider adding features like a built-in dust collection system, specialized lighting, and ample electrical outlets.
The Gear Garage
Love the outdoors? Create a dedicated space in your garage for all your gear – bikes, kayaks, skis, camping equipment, and more.
Include features like a workbench for equipment maintenance, a wash station for cleaning your gear, and durable flooring that can withstand the elements.
The Home Office Haven
Need a quiet space to work from home? A detached garage with a dedicated office space can be the perfect solution.
It offers privacy and separation from the hustle and bustle of your home. Include large windows for natural light, soundproofing to minimize distractions, and comfortable furnishings.
The Guest Suite Getaway
Want to provide a comfortable space for guests? Build a garage with a guest suite above it.
This gives your visitors their own private space with a separate entrance, bathroom, and kitchenette. You can even add a small deck or patio to create a welcoming outdoor area.
The Entertainer’s Garage
Love hosting gatherings? Design your garage with an open floor plan that’s perfect for entertaining.
Include features like a bar area, a large-screen TV, comfortable seating, and plenty of space for games or activities. Consider adding large garage doors that open up to create a seamless indoor-outdoor space.
Building Your Dream with a Garage Addition
Adding a garage to your home is a big decision, but it can be a worthwhile investment that adds value, convenience, and functionality to your property. Whether you’re dreaming of a workshop, a home gym, or just a safe place to park your car, careful planning and the right design can make your garage addition a reality.
When considering your options, don’t forget about the advantages of metal garages. They are:
- Require minimal maintenance
- Fully customizable
- Long-lasting
- Durable
At Alan’s Factory Outlet, we offer a wide variety of metal garages to choose from with free installation in southern states, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for your home.
FAQs
Got questions about garage additions? We’ve got answers!
How long does it take to build a garage addition?
The size and complexity of your garage addition determines your construction timeline. A simple, prefabricated metal garage might be installed in a matter of days, while a larger, custom-built garage could take several weeks or even months to complete.
Do I need a permit to build a garage addition?
Yes, you’ll almost always need a permit to build a garage addition. This is to ensure your project meets local building codes and safety regulations. Your location determines the permit process, so it’s best to check with your local building department for details.
Can I build a garage addition myself?
If you’re handy and have some construction experience, you might be able to tackle some or all of the project yourself. However, garage additions involve electrical work, structural framing, and sometimes plumbing, so it’s often best to hire experienced contractors, especially for those specialized tasks.
