Many homeowners decide to convert their garages into extra living space. If you’re considering making this type of home improvement, you may be wondering where to start. Do you want to turn the garage into an office? An entertainment room? Some even convert their garage to an extra bedroom. This guide will teach you the basics of turning your garage into a comfortable bedroom.
Contents
Plan and Get Permits
The first step in any home improvement project is planning. You’ll need to consider factors like budget, the intended use of the space, and building codes and regulations in your area. In most cases, converting a garage into a bedroom will require structural changes to the existing building. It’s a good idea to organize the garage to help you more easily visualize your plans.
Once you have a clear idea of what you want, you can apply for the necessary permits from your local government. Depending on the project’s scope, you may need approval from your local planning and/or building departments. If you’re simply converting an existing garage into a bedroom, you may not need much more than a building permit. However, if you’re making major changes to the garage’s structure, such as adding or removing walls, you’ll likely need to obtain a variance.
You’ll also want to consider whether this is a project you feel comfortable doing on your own, or if you want to hire a contractor.
Add Insulation and Windows
Insulation is one of the most important things to consider when converting a garage into a bedroom. Without proper insulation, the room will be uncomfortable and drafty, making it difficult to use year-round. There are several reasons why insulation is so important in this type of conversion. Insulated walls help keep the outside noise from entering the room, regulate temperature, and reduce energy costs by reducing the heat that escapes through the walls.
The building code will also require adding windows to the room. Not all garages have windows, so you’ll have to install them while working on the insulation. Windows also help regulate the room’s temperature, ventilation, and lighting, so they have their benefits. By adding insulation and windows, you can make the space more comfortable and efficient.
Install Comfortable Flooring
Another consideration is flooring. Many garages have concrete floors, which can be cold and uncomfortable. One popular option for flooring is carpet. Carpet is soft and warm underfoot, making it a comfortable choice for a bedroom. It’s also available in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can easily find an option that fits your taste.
Another option to consider is laminate flooring. Laminate gives the appearance of hardwood or stone, but is more durable and easier to care for. It’s also a good choice if you hope to create a more modern look in your new bedroom. Whichever type of flooring you choose, install it carefully to ensure a smooth, level surface.
Update Utilities
When you’re planning to convert your garage into an extra bedroom, one of the most important things to do is update the utilities. This means running new wiring for electricity and adding plumbing for a bathroom, if desired. You’ll also want to consider things like heating and cooling and ventilation. Depending on your climate zone and the other rooms in your house, you may need to make some changes to your HVAC system to accommodate the new bedroom.
These updates can be a lot of work, but they’re essential for making your garage conversion safe and comfortable. With a little planning and effort, you can ensure that your new bedroom is up to code and ready for use—once you add some furniture and decor, of course.
Turn Your Garage into Living Space
A garage can be turned into a comfortable and inviting bedroom with some time, effort, and planning. It may even add value to your property! If you’re planning on undertaking this type of project, be sure to do your research and create a detailed plan before getting started. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your garage transformation today.
Gordon Reese Can Help
We are here to answer any questions you may have about a garage renovation. It is easy to book a call with me here. We look forward to working with you!
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