If the garage feels uncomfortable because it is too narrow or is used for other activities, you can expand the garage by utilizing vacant land or making an attic. Although the effort and cost is relatively large, this step is very rewarding. If you don't know what to do yet, this wikiHow covers frequently asked questions about expanding a garage. Take the following information into consideration when planning a garage renovation!
Step
Question 1 of 8: How do I expand my one-car garage?
Step 1. Make room on the back side of the garage to increase the length
If you want to use the garage for activities, prepare additional space by making the garage longer so that there is a place to store things. In addition, you can use the new room for daily activities.
For example, you can build a personal gym at home if the garage is longer
Step 2. Create a room next to the garage to increase its capacity
Ideally, every house has a parking lot, especially if you want to buy a second car. You can expand the garage by increasing its capacity from one car to two cars or installing a canopy next to the garage to make it wider.
If you widen the garage a little, you can store your bicycle and plant-care equipment in the garage
Step 3. Raise the garage ceiling so you can park a vehicle with a higher roof
The size of the garage is usually adjusted to the size of the car that is commonly used, such as a sedan or sports car so that the ceiling is not high enough for certain types of cars, such as minibuses or caravans. If the garage ceiling is higher, you can jack up the car a bit higher so it's easier to change tires if needed.
Increasing the height of the ceiling can be a solution if the garage cannot be expanded in another direction
Question 2 of 8: Can the garage be multi-storey?
Step 1. Yes, but it must be done according to the building design
For that, you need to hire a civil engineer to check the condition of the garage to determine whether the frame and foundation can support the new building on it. Then, have the contractor inspect and strengthen the garage foundation if needed. Make sure this garage renovation is done with the help of a professional builder so that the construction is strong and safe.
For example, you may need to install drywall on the walls and ceiling of your garage before building an attic
Question 3 of 8: Can the garage be used for daily activities?
Step 1. Can
You can use the garage for daily activities, for example as a bedroom or a place to exercise. There are also those who turn the garage into an office, playroom, or kitchen.
You can turn your garage into a place to create art or relax
Question 4 of 8: Do I need to apply for a permit before expanding the garage?
Step 1. You may need to apply for a permit depending on the location of your home
Take the time to find information about applicable regulations before renovating a house. Each district, municipality, province, and country applies different regulations. Come to the local government office, then submit plans to renovate the house to expand the garage or search for information on the internet. If you need to apply for a permit, you may be asked to fill out a form and submit the necessary documents.
In Indonesia, you need to apply for a Building Permit (IMB) before renovating a house that changes the layout of the room, the facade (front view) of the house, and the building area due to dismantling or making new walls whose construction is permanent
Question 5 of 8: How much land can be used to expand the garage?
Step 1. Find out the regulations on this matter by asking the local City Planning Office staff or via the internet
Each region has different rules and requirements depending on the location of your home. Come to the office of the City Planning Office to consult with the employee in charge of taking care of building permits. He can explain what you can and can't do when renovating your home.
In certain locations in Indonesia, the 40-60% Basic Building Coefficient (KDB) regulation applies for residential houses to regulate the limits of the building area that can be built. This regulation is closely related to environmental sustainability
Question 6 of 8: Can the garage expansion be done by yourself?
Step 1. You can, but you shouldn't do it yourself
If you have no experience building houses, consider hiring a professional contractor. Garage renovation requires knowledge in terms of building construction and civil engineering. In addition to being more extensive, you must ensure the safety of garage construction by hiring a professional contractor who is competent to do this work.
Question 7 of 8: How much does a garage expansion cost?
Step 1. Calculate the garage expansion project to find out the cost
If details are made, the cost of the garage expansion project consists of materials and labor. The prices of certain materials, such as bricks, C channel iron, and rafter wood are relatively expensive depending on their size and quality. In addition, large projects, such as expanding a one-car garage into two cars, take longer than adding space behind the garage, resulting in higher labor costs.
The cost of the project depends on the contractor who will work on the expansion of the garage. Contact several contractors and have them submit proposals so you can compare the costs before making your choice
Step 2. The costs will increase if you use the services of a specialist contractor
If you want to expand your garage or change its function, completing this project will require other contractors, such as carpenters and electricians. Large-scale projects, such as increasing the capacity of the garage, you need to hire an architect or interior designer to create design drawings of new buildings and rooms.
Question 8 of 8: How long will it take to expand the garage?
Step 1. Usually, garage expansion is completed in 1-2 weeks
However, the project schedule is structured according to the work to be done and the materials used. Before the project begins, ask the contractor to draw up a work schedule.
