Your Guide to Adding a Garage to a House
Adding a garage to a house is a major home improvement project that can significantly boost your property’s value, functionality, and curb appeal. From protecting your vehicles and adding storage to creating a workshop, a new garage solves multiple problems at once.
Key benefits of adding a garage to a house include:
- Return on Investment: Expect a 65-81% ROI, adding significant value to your home.
- Protection & Storage: Shield vehicles from weather and free up space in your home.
- Convenience & Functionality: Enjoy sheltered parking and gain a versatile space for hobbies or a workshop.
- Curb Appeal: A well-designed garage improves your home’s exterior.
According to the American Housing Survey, 66% of U.S. homes have a garage or carport, but that means one-third of homeowners are missing out. If you’re tired of parking outside or running out of storage, this project is for you.
At Wright’s Shed Co., we specialize in adding a garage to a house through custom, onsite construction. This guide will walk you through everything from planning and permits to design and costs, so you can create a garage that adds lasting value to your property.
Is Adding a Garage to a House a Worthwhile Investment?
When considering adding a garage to a house, it’s natural to wonder if the investment will pay off. After building custom garages across Utah, Idaho, Iowa, and Nebraska since 1997, I can tell you with confidence: a well-planned garage is almost always worth it, both financially and for your quality of life.
The numbers speak for themselves. According to The Cost vs. Value Report, garage additions deliver a 65-81% return on investment (ROI). Pocket Sense also notes that garages consistently rank among the top home improvements for ROI because they add functionality, security, and curb appeal that buyers want.
But the value goes beyond resale. A garage provides secure storage, vehicle protection, and a flexible space for a workshop, home gym, or hobby area. It’s about the everyday convenience of not scraping ice off your windshield or hauling groceries through the rain.
The Financial Benefits of Adding a Garage
Most homeowners see their property value increase by $20,000 to $35,000 when they add a quality garage. Homes with garages also tend to sell faster and appeal to more buyers. Even a simple garage door replacement can yield a 93.3% ROI, according to The Cost vs. Value Report, so imagine what a complete, custom-built garage can do.
At Wright’s Shed Co., we build every garage onsite to create a durable, long-term asset. Our detached garages are built with quality materials and backed by warranties, ensuring your investment lasts. For more details, check out our Detached Garage options.
Everyday Convenience and Lifestyle Perks
The lifestyle improvements are what our customers rave about most. Imagine pulling into a dry, sheltered space, your car protected from hail, snow, and sun damage. A garage also declutters your home by providing a dedicated spot for tools, bikes, and seasonal items.
Many of our customers also use their new garage as a dedicated hobby space or workshop. Whether you’re into woodworking, car restoration, or crafting, a custom garage gives you the flexibility to pursue your passions. We’ve built garages that double as home gyms, art studios, and quiet retreats.
Choosing the Right Garage Addition for Your Home
When it comes to adding a garage to a house, your two best options are a detached garage or a custom storage shed. Both offer far more flexibility and value than other alternatives, especially since we custom-build every structure onsite. This means you get a perfect fit for your property, built to last with upgraded features as standard.
The choice depends on your primary need. A detached garage is a larger investment but offers significant ROI, with ample room for vehicles, workshops, and secure storage. A custom storage shed is more affordable and provides excellent value for dedicated storage, hobby space, or garden equipment. Both are built with the same commitment to quality craftsmanship and durability.
Detached Garages: The Superior Choice for Flexibility
While many assume an attached garage is standard, a detached garage is often the smarter option, especially for older homes or unique properties.
- Design Freedom: You aren’t constrained by your home’s existing footprint. A detached garage can be scaled and styled to complement your home’s character without overwhelming it.
- Privacy and Noise Isolation: A separate structure is perfect for a workshop with loud tools or a quiet home office, keeping noise and distractions away from the main house.
- Security and Safety: Many homeowners prefer a detached garage because it eliminates direct access to the home, limiting entry points and keeping vehicle emissions separate.
- Placement Flexibility: You can position a detached garage to optimize driveway access, work around landscaping, or create a breezeway. This flexibility allows for a truly custom solution. Explore the possibilities with our Detached Garage Designs.
Custom Storage Sheds: Versatile Solutions for Every Need
Sometimes, what you really need is a highly functional, secure, and attractive storage solution without the scale of a full garage. That’s where our custom storage sheds shine.
A custom shed gives a proper home to garden tools, lawnmowers, bikes, and seasonal gear, freeing up valuable space in your house. Since we build every shed onsite, you get a structure that fits your property perfectly. We offer styles like the Vineyard Shed, Orchard Shed, Farm Shed, and space-saving Lean-To Sheds, all built with high-quality materials.
Our custom sheds are also perfect for hobby spaces, from pottery studios and home gyms to she-sheds and reading retreats. For the hands-on homeowner, we also offer DIY Shed Kits. Explore all your options in our full lineup of Custom Sheds.
Whether you choose a detached garage or a custom shed, you’re investing in a durable, beautiful structure that adds real value and makes daily life easier.
The Essential Planning Guide for Adding a Garage to a House
Adding a garage to a house requires a solid plan. Successful projects start with careful preparation: defining your goals, assessing your property, researching local rules, setting a budget, and choosing an experienced local builder. At Wright’s Shed Co., we build everything onsite, ensuring a custom fit with quality materials. While we don’t build foundations, we provide expert guidance on the best options for your property in Utah, Idaho, Iowa, or Nebraska.
Step 1: Navigating Regulations and Permits
This step is critical. You will almost always need a permit for adding a garage to a house, and skipping it can lead to fines or forced removal. HomeGuide confirms permits are non-negotiable. Key regulations to check with your local building department include:
- Zoning Codes: Dictate the size, location, and use of your garage.
- Setback Requirements: Specify the minimum distance from property lines and other structures.
- HOA Rules: If applicable, your Homeowners Association will have rules on style, color, and materials.
- Driveway & Impervious Area Limits: Municipalities often regulate driveway width and the total amount of paved or covered surface on your lot.
As local experts, we can help you steer these requirements in your area.
Step 2: The Construction Process for Adding a Garage to a House
Once permits are approved, our onsite construction process begins. We’ve refined this process over decades to be efficient and minimally disruptive.
- Site Preparation: The site must be cleared and leveled, with a foundation ready for construction. We’ll consult with you on the best foundation type, such as a concrete slab or crawl space, but this work must be completed before our team arrives to build.
- Framing: Our craftsmen build the garage skeleton onsite with high-quality lumber, ensuring a perfect fit and lasting durability.
- Roofing and Siding: We install a durable roof designed for your local weather and siding that complements your home’s style.
- Windows and Doors: We install your garage door(s), pedestrian doors, and windows to bring in natural light.
- Finishing: We build the structure ready for licensed electricians and plumbers to add lighting, outlets, and any other utilities you need.
Our onsite process allows us to adapt to your property’s unique needs. For a detailed look at the building sequence, see our Garage Building Ultimate Guide.
Designing Your Dream Garage: Customization & Features
When adding a garage to a house, the design process is where your vision comes to life. A thoughtfully designed garage should reflect your needs and style. It’s also important to plan for the future, as vehicle sizes can vary greatly. We recommend designing with extra room for maneuvering and storage.
Essential Design Considerations
- Size and Layout: A single-car garage should be at least 14’x20′, but we recommend 16’x24′ for extra room. For two cars, 24’x28′ or larger is ideal to accommodate vehicles, tools, and storage.
- Architectural Style: We’ll help you select a roof style, pitch, siding, and roofing that complement your home’s existing design for a cohesive look that boosts curb appeal.
- Natural Light and Doors: Strategically placed windows make the space more pleasant and functional. A pedestrian access door is also essential for convenient entry without opening the main garage door.
- Quality Materials: At Wright’s Shed Co., we use high-quality materials as standard to ensure your garage withstands harsh weather for decades. Browse our Custom Garages to see the possibilities.
Understanding the Costs of Adding a Garage to a House
When adding a garage to a house, it’s important to understand what drives the cost. Every project is unique, but key factors include:
- Size and Complexity: A large, two-car garage with a workshop will cost more than a basic single-car structure.
- Materials and Finishes: Your choice of siding, roofing, windows, and custom features will influence the budget.
- Site Preparation: Properties with challenging terrain may require more grading or excavation.
- Labor and Regional Differences: Costs vary based on local labor rates and material availability in Utah, Idaho, Iowa, and Nebraska.
Cheap construction is expensive in the long run. As Forbes notes, a quality garage improves your home’s appeal, justifying the investment. At Wright’s Shed Co., we use durable materials and expert craftsmanship to provide greater long-term value and peace of mind.
Estimated Costs for a Detached Garage
Every detached garage we build is fully customized, so pricing can vary based on size, materials, and design features. Our garages start at $4,811 and go up to $14,371 for the structure itself. Foundation work is a separate cost, but our team provides expert guidance to ensure your site is ready for construction.
At Wright’s Shed Co., we build each garage on-site using premium, long-lasting materials. Every structure is crafted for durability and backed by warranties.
For a detailed price breakdown by size and options, visit our Garage Pricing Page to explore all available models and customization choices.
Frequently Asked Questions about Adding a Garage to a House
Here are answers to the most common questions we get about adding a garage to a house.
How much value does a garage add to a house?
A garage addition can boost your home’s value by $20,000 to $35,000, with a typical return on investment (ROI) of 65% to 81%. It also adds significant curb appeal and functionality, making your home more attractive to future buyers.
Is a detached garage better than a shed for storage?
It depends on your needs. A detached garage is best for vehicles and large items, offering maximum space and security. A custom shed is a more affordable solution, perfect for tools, garden equipment, and creating dedicated hobby spaces.
Do I need a permit to build a garage or shed?
Yes, almost all garage and large shed projects require a building permit. This ensures your structure complies with local zoning, safety, and setback regulations. Always check with your local building department before starting construction.
How long does it take to build a custom garage or shed onsite?
Your garage project timeline depends on a few factors, but most builds follow a straightforward schedule. Planning, design, and permits usually take around four weeks, followed by two to three days of on-site construction. In total, your custom garage is typically completed in about five weeks from start to finish.
Can I use my new garage or shed as a workshop or hobby space?
Absolutely. We can help you design the perfect workshop or hobby area with features like windows for natural light and options for insulation. The structure is built ready for an electrician to add outlets for year-round comfort and functionality. Our custom, onsite process makes it easy to create a space tailored to your needs.
Why Adding a Garage to a House is a Smart Move
Adding a garage to a house is one of the smartest investments you can make. It improves your lifestyle, protects your assets, and significantly increases your home’s value and appeal. It’s about the convenience of a sheltered parking spot, the security of added storage, and the joy of a dedicated hobby space.
At Wright’s Shed Co., we’ve been the local experts in Utah, Idaho, Iowa, and Nebraska since 1997. We build everything onsite, from custom detached garages to our popular Vineyard and Farm Sheds, using high-quality materials and craftsmanship backed by warranties. This ensures you get a durable, beautiful structure that’s custom-built for your property.
While we don’t build foundations, we provide expert guidance to make the process smooth. We’re here to help you create a lasting addition that serves your family for generations.
Ready to get started? Get a free quote on your custom garage or shed today!