Updated: October 31, 2023
Posted: December 22, 2014
How To Convert Your Garage Into Living Space
If you are wanting to add extra space to your home but can’t afford to move house or extend onto your current property, converting your garage is the perfect solution. Here at JB Doors we understand that garage conversions can be a rather daunting task, which is why we aim to make things a little easier by providing you with some helpful tips.
More and more garages are turning into wasted space which could be better used for storage, an office or extra living space. Converting your garage is a great way of adding additional room and value to your home, so don’t let this valuable garage space go to waste!
Depending on the homeowners’ needs, this extra room can be used for a wide range of purposes, including:
- A bedroom/bathroom/living room
- A playroom
- A larger kitchen
- A home cinema
- A gym
- An office
- Storage space
Whether you need more room to accommodate your growing family, or you require some office space to work from home, there are a variety of ways you can make the most of your garage.
Before you begin the garage conversion, you will need to make sure you are fully clued up on the legalities involved; if you proceed without permission, you could be ordered to restore everything back to how it was which is a time-consuming and extremely costly mistake to make.
Check your property deeds
Some property developers place a restriction on any building work that will alter a property’s outer appearance, so be sure to check whether there is such a clause in your lease; if there is, contact your developers straightaway.
To avoid any hassle from the outset, another option is to convert just the inside of the garage without changing its external appearance.
Planning permission
To convert a garage, you usually only need to apply for planning permission if you decide to extend the overall size of the garage. However, make sure you check with your local authority as the rules can differ and this may not be relevant to you.
Building regulations
If you decide to convert your garage, you will need to adhere to government building regulations; rules may differ so you need to check with your local council.
There are a few examples where permission to convert your garage may be denied. A few main points to take into consideration include:
– If you live in a listed building. This is mainly due to the fact that the outer appearance of the property must be kept as it is.
– Garage conversion may affect the drainage on your property. If you plan on laying concrete over your garden or front lawn, this extra pressure can cause havoc with your existing drainage system. You may need to invest in a solution to lessen the chance of flooding or blocked drains.
– Additional insulation will be required. Some councils will allow you to add the extra insulation to the property in its current state while others specify that you must dig up the floor and insulate it as if you were starting the building work from the very beginning. This will affect your budget so remember to always check first.
To create a more homely feel in your converted garage, why don’t you let the outdoors in by installing a side hinged garage door? This will allow you to open the space up to the garden in the summertime and provides easy access for pedestrians and cars alike.
Here at JB Doors we offer an extensive range of stylish and practical garage door designs, including side-hinged, to best suit your requirements. Simply get in touch with our expert team today for further information.
