Converting your garage into a living space can greatly expand the functionality of your home. But the process requires careful planning and expertise to execute correctly. As professional contractors serving San Diego County for decades, we at Reflective Remodeling want to provide you with our top 10 tips to ensure your garage conversion project goes smoothly from start to finish.
1. Decide how you’ll use the space. Will it be a bedroom, home office, gym, playroom? Determining the purpose will inform important factors like necessary amenities, storage, layout, lighting and more. Take time to envision exactly how you’ll utilize the finished conversion.
2. Set your budget accordingly. Garage conversions in San Diego County can typically cost between $30,000-$60,000 depending on the specifics. Get detailed quotes from qualified, local contractors early in the process to establish realistic expectations. Be sure to account for every aspect including permits and design fees.
3. Mind the structural and utility details. Converting a garage requires addressing heating, cooling, plumbing, electricity, ventilation, insulation and the overall structural integrity. A licensed professional knows building codes and requirements to handle all of this seamlessly.
4. Insulate extensively for comfort. Since garages are not designed for habitation, proper insulation is key to maintaining comfortable temperatures. This should include the roof, walls and floor to prevent drafts or heat transfer issues. One major upgrade you might consider for your garage conversion is installing a PEX radiant in-floor heating system. This keeps your floor warm, reducing the overall amount of heating needed for the space. Depending on whether you choose to install it yourself or take professional help, the cost to include PEX can vary.
5. Don’t forget the garage door. An attractive French door or series of windows along the front wall brings abundant natural light into the new living space and improves curb appeal. Consider opting for an 8-ft.-tall garage door rather than the more common 7-ft. size. This gives you more room to maneuver within the garage. Please note that the walls must be at least 9 ft. tall to accommodate such a door.
6. Focus on seamless exterior integration. New siding, exterior lighting fixtures, landscaping beds and other details along the front can make the converted space look like it was part of the original home design.
7. Consider an expanded driveway. Converting the garage will take away parking spots, so widening your driveway beforehand can compensate and prevent future hassles.
8. Incorporate customized storage solutions. Built-in shelving, cabinetry, closet systems and other storage features maximize usefulness of the converted space. If you’re looking to convert the garage into a two-floor structure but are battling with building code restrictions for height, adding shed dormers could be the resolution. This allows you more headroom, additional storage, and extra windows without the hassle of a full second floor.
9. Understand the process takes time. Completing a full garage conversion typically takes 2-4 months, with the space completely unusable during the process. Plan accordingly.
10. Partner with a trusted expert. With decades of experience completing garage conversions, additions and remodeling projects, the crew at Reflective Remodeling can seamlessly translate your vision into reality.
Bonus 11. If you are struggling with deciding on your garage conversion, but have space on your property, consider an Additional Dwelling Unit as well.
Ready to gain valuable living space through a garage conversion? Call Reflective Remodeling at (760) 925-3098 to schedule a consultation! Our experts are here to help.
