I'm looking for some advice on expanding my tiny one-car garage into something much larger—ideally a two-car garage with extra depth and a walk-up attic for storage. I do a lot of woodworking, so space is a big concern, and with electric vehicles on the horizon, I want to ensure there's enough room for charging stations too. The plan is to clear out all my tools and tear down the current garage to make way for a new build. I'm in the suburbs, and while I have the space, I'd like the new garage to match the neighborhood aesthetics and not look out of place. Anyone gone through a similar project? What lessons did you learn? Any great prefabricated options I should check out? Thanks!
3 Answers
I'm currently building a three-car garage with a second floor. The biggest lesson? Know your local zoning laws inside out. Start with them, or you might end up doubling your budget when you outsource. Also, plan ahead for what you'll be using the space for—like insulation or electrical work—for when you're ready to finish that second floor.
If you're considering the construction method, a pole barn might be your best bet! It's more affordable to build large and offers plenty of height. For example, in my area, you could get a 32'x48'x16' pole barn for about $30-40k. Just make sure to insulate it well—spray foam works wonders for keeping heat in. Menard's has some great resources if you're near one, but if not, you can DIY it if you’re handy!
I recently upgraded to a garage with a loft, and it's been fantastic for family gatherings during the colder months! My advice is to go bigger than you think you'll need. I thought I had enough space, but I'm already considering another building! Also, if you're working with wood dust, remember that it can cause issues with electronic vehicles. Frequent cleaning is key!