If your home needs additional space, then you may want to consider transforming your garage. Before you can, however, you should first determine how you’ll approach this project. It’s a big undertaking—but it doesn’t have to be. So, here’s a guide filled with simple steps to planning a garage makeover.
Set a Budget First
Creating a budget for a project like this is crucial. If you’re planning to do a partial renovation, you’ll spend between $500 and $5,000. If you’re going to completely renovate your garage, it’ll cost $7,000 to $15,000. Additionally, for a fully upgraded garage, it’ll cost between $20,000 and $75,000.
Also, you’ll need to factor in other costs, such as additional upgrades to shelving space, lighting, and painting. Plan a garage clean-out once you start.
As we move forward, keep these additional costs in mind:
- A garage extension
- Additional parking space
- Utility additions
- Adding another level (i.e., attic space)
Declutter the Garage
Decluttering effectively is very important. Consider the following simple steps to planning a garage makeover:
- Renting a dumpster
- Donating items to charity
- Recycling electronics
- Selling good quality items online
Destroy Some Walls
Knocking down walls is time-consuming, complex, and can result in lots of accumulated materials—as such, it’s essential to consider the complexity of your project. For example, don’ tell contractors you want an extension at the last minute. Create your plan thoroughly. Many contractors need to know the purpose of knocking down your walls.
Place Insulation into the Walls
Insulation is important for all renovations, including garage renovations. Consider using these insulation types for the walls of your garage:
- Fiberglass
- Cellulose
- Rigid Foam
- Spray Foam
Add Storage Space
Storage space is vital for any garage. As long as the finished walls meet local building codes, you can pick whatever shelving you like. You could also use bins to store large items and pegboards to hold tools. This part of garage renovation is open-ended, so be as creative as you want!
As you pave the way toward a complete garage makeover, consider scoping the rest of your home and finding the next project you want to tackle. Of course, you never know what your next project will be, so while you look, place money aside so you’ll have a budget ready when the time comes.