A Guide to Building Above Your Attached Garage

Building above the garage has become a popular trend among homeowners looking to maximize their living space without traditional home additions. This innovative approach not only offers a practical solution to space constraints but also significantly enhances the property’s value and functionality. 

Why Do People Build Above Their Attached Garage?

Building above an attached garage is increasingly popular among homeowners for several reasons. One primary motivation is the efficient utilization of existing space to accommodate the evolving needs of a household without the need to extend the property’s footprint. This approach not only saves on the cost and complexity associated with ground-level expansions but also leverages the unused vertical space that a garage roof often provides. Additionally, constructing above the garage can significantly enhance the property’s value, offering a high return on investment by adding square footage in a cost-effective manner. This type of renovation can transform an underused area into a valuable living space, such as an extra bedroom, home office, or entertainment room, thereby improving the functionality and appeal of the home.

Determining Your New Space

Spare Bedroom

A spare bedroom is one of the most popular options. This addition serves as a versatile space for families, guests, and more, offering them a private and comfortable area to stay in. 

Home Office

The creation of a home office taps into the growing trend of remote work, offering a dedicated workspace that enhances productivity and work-life balance. It provides a professional environment conducive to concentration and efficiency, free from typical domestic distractions. 

Child Playroom

A child playroom offers a dedicated and safe environment for children to play, explore, and grow. This specialized space allows for the organization of toys, books, and educational materials.

Mother-in-Law Suite

A mother-in-law suite above the garage is a self-contained living area, complete with amenities such as a bedroom, bathroom, and sometimes even a kitchenette. This area can offer a perfect blend of independence and proximity. 

Rec Room

Adding a recreational room, or rec room, above the garage will make it a hub for family activities, entertainment, and relaxation. This includes a home theater, games area, mini gym, or a lounge for social gatherings. 

Considerations to Make when Building Above an Attached Garage

When considering building above an attached garage, there are several important factors to take into account to ensure the project’s success and integration with the existing home:

Structural Integrity and Load-Bearing Capacity

• The existing garage ceiling joists may not support the additional live loads of a new living space. It is often necessary to replace these with new floor joists designed to handle the increased weight.
• Assessing the wall framing of the garage is crucial to ensure that the load from the new structure can be properly transferred down to the foundation, preventing structural issues.

Insulation and Temperature Control

• Proper insulation of the garage ceiling/new floor is essential to maintain energy efficiency and comfort in the new space above.
• Considering the heating of the garage to a moderate temperature (up to 50 degrees as per code) can aid in retaining heat in the new upper space, contributing to a more stable and comfortable environment.

Access and Integration with the Existing Home

• Determining how to enter the new space from the second floor of the existing home is a key planning aspect. This often involves navigating through existing bedrooms, which may require reconfiguration to create a functional and accessible hallway or entryway to the new space.

Heating and Cooling Solutions

• The absence of a basement beneath the garage complicates the extension of existing HVAC ductwork to the new space. Alternative heating and cooling solutions, such as mini-split systems or electric baseboard heaters, should be considered to ensure the new area is comfortable year-round.

Aesthetic Considerations and Exterior Design

• The addition of a new structure above the garage will alter the home’s exterior appearance. It’s important to consider how the taller building will blend with the existing architectural style and aesthetic of the house to ensure a cohesive and attractive design.

Maximizing Value when Building Above Your Attached Garage

A well-planned garage addition can significantly enhance the functionality, aesthetics, and value of your home. By carefully considering the purpose of the new space, ensuring it blends seamlessly with the existing structure, and choosing the right materials and architectural designs, homeowners can achieve a harmonious and practical expansion of their living area. 

LaBonte Construction can transform your garage into a valuable and functional extension of your home, tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle. Let’s work together to elevate your living space and enhance your home’s value with a meticulously planned and executed garage addition.

Contact the team at LaBonte Construction today to learn more about adding a new space above your garage.

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