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How to Create More Living Space With a Garage Conversion
Newly constructed homes are getting larger, partly due to the fact that one in four Americans outgrows their living space within two years. However, if you feel you need more living space, you don't have to move.
A garage conversion is the perfect solution to add more living space to a home.
If you're interested and looking for conversion ideas or need more information on home improvement in Kennett Square, PA, answer the following questions.
How Do You Plan to Use the Space?
First, ask yourself why you're interested in a garage conversion. If you need more living space, how do you plan to utilize this room? Does it serve one dedicated purpose, or is it a multipurpose room?
Outline your needs and your goals, so you can discuss them with your contractor.
Here are some garage conversion ideas and common uses that might inspire you:
- An area to meet with clients
- Studio
- Rec room
- Play area for kids
- Guesthouse
- Loft
- Home theater
Understanding the purpose of the room will help you decide on the best garage conversion floor plans. It will also dictate whether you need any additional features, such as a bathroom.
The purpose of the room will also determine which building materials are used. For instance, the flooring for a gym will likely be different than the floor for a home office. If you want to create an art studio, you might need windows installed for more natural light.
Will You Leave the Garage Door?
Leaving the garage door can save you money and also create an industrial look. However, many homeowners seek to remove the garage door and replace it.
For example, sliding glass doors are quite popular, and they let in a lot of light, but you'll need to consider privacy.
What's Your Budget?
A garage conversion has many basic but necessary upgrades, such as insulating the walls and adding drywall, installing outlets and light switches, adding plumbing, and installing a heating and cooling solution. Then there are all the extra upgrades that you might want, such as windows and doors, closet space, bathrooms, and so on.
It's important to create a budget and stick to it, or you could quickly overdo it.
What does a garage conversion cost? The best way to get a good estimate for the job is to talk to a contractor and get an estimate.
Do You Have Questions About the ADU Requirements?
A garage conversion is also known as an accessory dwelling unit or ADU. Essentially, it's a secondary "house" that shares the same lot as a primary home. ADUs have different zoning requirements and regulations depending on where you live.
ADU requirements, including zoning laws, will vary, but learning as much as you can about them helps you understand the conversion process better.
Design Your Garage Conversion
Once you have an idea of how you plan to use the new area, it's time to talk to a construction team to make those ideas a reality.
At COPE Construction and Renovation, we'd love to help design your garage conversion and give you the extra living space you need. Give us a call at 484-748-7708