Partial garage conversion cost: Fixr.com | Cost to Remodel a Garage

Fixr.com | Cost to Remodel a Garage

Updated: Mar 22, 2022

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

Remodeling your garage can bring utility and value to your life and home. Garages are used for many things besides car storage. They can be storage areas for sports equipment and tools, include work areas and home gyms, and expand your living space if you do not use it as a car garage.

Garage remodels come in all shapes and sizes, from cosmetic makeovers to full conversions. This leads to a wide range of associated costs. The national average cost range for a garage remodel is between $7,000 and $15,000, with most homeowners spending around $11,000 on a full 2-car garage remodel with new cabinet storage and floor coating. This project’s lowest cost is around $3,000 for a cosmetic update with floor and wall paint and shelving. The high cost for this project is approximately $40,000 for a garage conversion that turns the garage into a bedroom and bathroom suite.

Garage Remodeling Costs

Garage Remodeling Prices
National average cost	$11,000
Average range	$7,000-$15,000
Low-end	$3,000
High-end	$40,000

Garage Renovation Cost by Type

Like any renovation or remodeling project, there are levels of work that impact the outcome, including costs. In the case of a garage renovation, this can include a partial remodel, such as a cosmetic update, a full remodel, and garage conversion. Each has its set of costs and options to consider.

Type of Remodel	Average Cost Range
Partial	$500 – $5,000
Full	$7,000 – $15,000
Conversion	$20,000 – $75,000

Partial Garage Remodel

The average cost of a partial garage remodel averages $500 to $5,000. Partial remodels can take on many forms. It may focus on a specific thing, such as a new garage door, or be a cosmetic update of all surfaces like the floor and walls. Partial remodels make an older garage look better and can improve saleability. They do not change much in terms of the structure. This is a good option if your garage looks tired and rundown, and you want to give it a facelift.

Full Garage Remodel

A full garage remodel costs between $7,000 and $15,000 on average. This is the most common type of garage remodel for those who intend to use their garages for car storage. It usually involves a high-quality floor coating, custom cabinets and storage units, finished walls, ceiling, and new garage doors. The idea is to make the garage a functional, attractive, and easy to care for space. You can use the garage for more than just car storage, but it does not lower your home’s value the way that removing the garage to turn it into a living space does. Full garage remodels take on many looks and styles that meet a wide number of needs and homes.

Garage Conversion

Garage conversions have an average cost range of $20,000 to $75,000. Garage conversions make your car storage area into living space. This could mean a home office or workroom, bedroom, mudroom, living room, or even full apartment. Garage conversions have many pros and cons. They can expand your living space, particularly if you are not using it as a garage. They can be converted into nearly any room for any use, often for less than the cost for a full addition. However, if you plan on selling your home, converting your garage into a living space lowers your home’s value unless you add another garage on the property.

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Cost to Remodel a Garage by Size

Full garage remodels are some of the most common types of garage renovations. This is the project you want to undertake if you plan to use your garage as a garage but also need it to have more utility. Full remodels include new flooring, finished walls and ceiling, custom storage solutions, and a new door so that it looks good inside and out.

The cost of a full garage remodel can be at least partially impacted by the space’s size. The larger the garage, the more room you have for storage or work areas. You also have more floor and wall space to cover and likely a larger garage door.

Number of Cars	Dimensions	Average Costs
1	12’ x 20’	$4,200 – $9,000
2	20’ x 20’	$7,000 – $15,000
3	30’ x 20’	$10,500 – $22,500
4	40’ x 20’	$14,000 – $30,000
RV	20’ x 44’	$15,400 – $33,000

Partial Garage Remodel Cost by Type of Project

A partial garage remodel can take on many forms. It could be a simple cosmetic update, a new door, added storage, or other additions. While a full remodel may include several things at once, a partial remodel focuses on one area. This means that partial remodels vary and have a wide range of costs.

Project	Average Cost Range
Soundproofing	$250 – $3,500
Door Remote Control	$300 – $940
Insulate	$400 – $1,000
Windows	$400 – $1,000
Garage Door	$500 – $2,000
Finish Garage	$500 – $2,000
Car Lift	$500 – $5,000
Ductless AC	$700 – $3,000
Floor Refinish	$800 – $12,000
Garage Exterior Makeover	$1,200 – $6,000
Storage	$1,500 – $3,000
Expand Garage	$2,000 – $10,000
Floor Coating	$5,750 – $8,625

Soundproof a Garage

The average cost of garage soundproofing is between $250 and $3,500. Soundproofing can be done on different levels. Soundproofing materials can be added to the floors, walls, ceiling, and garage door or areas adjacent to the house. Acoustic materials also come in many forms, from PET tiles that can be applied anywhere to foam insulation that improves sound quality. For this reason, costs vary greatly. When deciding to soundproof, consider where you need the most sound absorption and focus on those areas to get the most out of the project.

Remote Control Garage Door

To have your garage door operate via remote control, the costs range from $300 to $940. You need a garage door opener that operates by remote control. There are several opener types and various remote systems. Each has costs for the opener and the installation. If you have an existing system that operates by remote control, you can purchase a replacement remote for between $15 and $90, depending on the system. Remote controls do not work universally, so ensure that the remote and system are compatible.

Insulate a Garage

The average cost to insulate a garage is between $400 and $1,000. Most garages are not insulated, so if you plan on using it for any reason other than car storage, insulating is generally a good idea. Your garage can be insulated in several ways, but ensuring you have insulation between the wall studs is a good first step. You can also choose to have an insulated door installed or to insulate beneath the exterior siding. The most common garage insulation is fiberglass batts, which are also the least expensive. You can use other materials, such as loose-fill if your walls have already been finished.

Add Windows to a Garage Door

The cost to add windows to a garage door averages $400 to $1,000. Window panels can usually be added to a standard garage door more easily than windows can be added to the garage walls. They are typically priced and installed by the panel. Most people add at least 4-6 panels of glass to their doors to maximize the light, but you can add fewer or more. The price is influenced by the door material and window glass type. Adding double-pane or specialty glass increases costs.

Garage Door Remodel

The cost of a garage door remodel is between $500 and $2,000 on average. Garage doors come in many sizes and styles. They can also be made of different materials. You can choose the opening style, whether it is insulated, and how it operates. Garage doors are typically priced by size and material. This means that you can have a wide range of costs for the same project.

Finish a Garage

The average cost to finish a garage is between $500 and $2,000. Finishing a garage comes in many forms. In most cases, it refers to giving the space finished walls and ceiling since many garages are left with unfinished cavity walls. Finishing can also give the floor a different finish than the plain concrete that many new garages have. In some cases, it could include a finished wall system, similar to those in basements. You may choose to finish the entire garage at once, or you can do sections at a time, leading to cost variation.

Car Lift for a Home Garage

The cost of adding a car lift to your garage averages $500 to $5,000. Car lifts are available in many forms. You can get a simple lift or something typically seen in a professional garage. If you frequently work on your car, having a high-quality lift in your garage can pay off in the long term. If you want a lift for occasional use, smaller models may be a better fit. Most lifts are designed to be stationary in the garage when not in use, so they can take up a lot of space.

Add a Ductless Air Conditioner to a Garage

The cost of adding a ductless air conditioner to a garage ranges from $700 to $3,000. Keep in mind that most garages are not insulated. If you plan on adding an AC, you may need a larger unit than normal, or you may find that you need to run it for longer periods to cool the garage. To remedy this, make sure you insulate before adding an AC. The air conditioner’s type and size vary based on your garage’s size and insulation.

Refinish a Garage Floor

The cost to refinish a garage floor averages $800 to $12,000. There are many ways to refinish a floor, from giving it a simple coat of floor paint to repairing significant issues before giving it a full epoxy coat or a decorative stain. The costs are reliant on two factors – the finish level you want and the floor’s condition. Garage floors in poor condition cost much more to refinish than a garage floor in good shape that has some surface staining. All types of garage floor refinishing have a range of options so that you can control your floor’s final appearance.

Exterior Makeover

Garage exterior makeovers cost between $1,200 and $6,000 on average. A makeover can be as simple as giving it a fresh coat of paint or as complex as adding new siding and a new door. You may also choose to add new trim, lights, or decorative hardware. This leads to a wide range of projects and costs. Your garage should coordinate with your home’s exterior, even if the garage is detached.

Storage

The cost of garage storage averages $1,500 to $3,000. Garage storage comes in both premade and custom variations, with the readymade typically costing less than anything custom. Storage can be anything from simple peg boards and hooks to custom-made workbenches with cabinetry. Most people use a combination, and you likely need more than one thing like shelves or cabinets to make the space work for you. Consider the space’s layout and what you plan to store before you start. Maximizing your storage increases the space’s utility.

Expand a Garage

The average cost to expand a garage ranges from $2,000 to $10,000. Garage expansions are major undertakings. They involve removing a wall and bumping the garage out or putting another story and roof on the garage. This can be costly, depending on how much you expand. Small bump-outs cost the least, while major expansions, which involve the garage’s framing and roofing, cost the most. It is important to consider the exterior’s appearance and how it coordinates with the garage and property when expanding.

Garage Floor Coating

The average cost of a garage floor coating is between $5,750 and $8,625 While there are many ways to seal or refinish a garage floor, a coating system is unique. This is a solid epoxy coat for the floor. It is the best option for garage floors, which tend to get a lot of use. A garage floor coating system protects your floor from future damage. It also helps transform its appearance for various looks, colors, and finishes. Garage floor coatings are often recommended as part of full and partial remodels.

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Garage Conversion Cost by Type

When not using your garage for car storage, you can convert it into another space. This is true whether the garage is attached or detached and regardless of its size. Garage conversions have a wide range of costs. This is because garages may be “finished” or “unfinished” before the conversion, and many may not be insulated.

Conversions are often subject to local building codes and regulations. They require a permit, which costs an average of $300 to ​$1,500. They can also have a range of costs, depending on what you convert them into.

Conversion Type	Average Cost Range
Utility Room	$3,000 – $8,000
Home Gym	$3,000 – $10,000
Mudroom	$7,000 – $12,000
Living Space	$7,000 – $75,000
Home Office	$10,000 – $20,000
Bedroom	$10,000 – $20,000
Bathroom	$15,000 – $30,000
Kitchen	$20,000 – $40,000
Granny Flat	$50,000 – $75,000
Apartment	$50,000 – $75,000

Convert a Garage Into a Utility Room

The cost to convert your garage into a utility room is between $3,000 and $8,000 on average. Most utility rooms are not finished, so this project’s costs can be lower than other conversions. Most of your expenses come from plumbing and wiring to the area. Most garages are not already plumbed and do not have the necessary drains for things like water heaters. So, all utilities must be rerouted to this space. If you want to finish the laundry area, your costs are higher.

Garage to Gym Conversion

The cost to convert a garage into a home gym averages $3,000 to $10,000. The costs range in part based on how comfortable you want the gym to be. If you need to add heating, cooling, or insulation, your costs are higher than if you only put down mats on the floor and add mirrors to the walls. Equipment costs also vary. Some home gym systems are very costly, while others are relatively inexpensive. Consider how you plan to use the space before converting it to make the most of your investment.

Convert a Garage Into a Mudroom

The average cost to convert a garage into a mudroom is between $7,000 and $12,000. Like the home gym, part of the costs come from how comfortable you want to be. Adding insulation, heating, or cooling increases your costs. In addition, the flooring type, cabinetry or storage, and garage finish impact prices. You must also decide if you want to remove the garage door and replace it with a standard entry door. This increases the project’s costs because it requires additional siding, exterior, and interior finish work.

Convert a Garage Into a Living Space

The cost to convert a garage into a living space ranges from $7,000 to $75,000. Garage living spaces can be interpreted in many ways. You can convert it to a playroom for kids, a bedroom, a kitchen, or a complete in-law apartment. Any addition of plumbing to the space increases the total cost. In addition, the HVAC system that you use, and whether you tie the heating system with the home or use a separate system, also impact the total price. Converting a space usually includes an exterior makeover to remove the garage door and give it the appearance of a living area, rather than a garage. All these factors impact the final costs.

Convert Garage to Office

The cost to convert a garage into a home office averages $10,000 to $20,000. The cost range includes variations in how you heat and cool the space. It also considers that some garages are finished, while others are unfinished. If the garage is insulated and has finished walls, it costs less to convert than an unfinished garage that also needs insulation. Garage doors can be hard to insulate, so you likely want to remove the door, including some exterior renovation. How you finish the office and the flooring and furnishing types also impact the cost.

Convert a Garage to a Bedroom

The average cost range to convert a garage to a bedroom is between $10,000 and $20,000. Like the home office conversion, the cost of a bedroom conversion is influenced by many things. These include the garage’s finish level, if it is insulated, and how you intend to heat and cool the bedroom. Adding a bathroom ensuite increases the project’s cost as well. How you finish the garage’s exterior also impacts the price. Most people remove the door to eliminate direct access to the bedroom from outside.

Convert a Garage Into a Bathroom

The average cost range to convert a garage into a bathroom ranges from $15,000 to $30,000. Anytime you need to run plumbing to the garage, your costs increase. You also must add an HVAC system and insulation to the area. Drilling through a concrete garage floor to put in a waste drain for a toilet installation can be very expensive. Bathrooms can also have a wide range of finishing costs. You have various fixtures and finishes to choose from, depending on the bathroom’s size and style.

Convert Garage Into Kitchen

The average cost to convert a garage into a kitchen is $20,000 to $40,000. Like the bathroom conversion, a kitchen requires plumbing. This automatically increases the conversion cost. You also need to add an HVAC system and insulation, and potentially a gas line. Cabinets, countertops, lighting, and flooring all have additional costs that contribute to the final cost. You also need to consider the conversion’s exterior work.

Garage Conversion to a Granny Flat

The average cost to convert a garage into a granny flat is between $50,000 and $75,000. A granny flat is an apartment housed on your property. It has its own entrance, heating system, kitchen, bathroom, and other amenities. It must have plumbing run, insulation, HVAC, and complete interior finish work. You also need to include an exterior makeover, which includes a separate entrance. If this is an attached garage, it is customary to close off the apartment from the rest of the home for privacy’s sake.

Convert a Garage Into an Apartment

The cost to convert a garage into an apartment averages $50,000 to $75,000. To be considered a separate apartment, the garage must have its own entrance, which is different from the house. It also needs a heating system, kitchen, and bathroom. You also need to fully insulate and finish the space. This usually includes an interior and exterior renovation. If this is an attached garage, it is customary to close off the apartment from the rest of the home for privacy.

Labor Costs to Remodel a Garage

Remodeling a garage often involves a lot of professionals. The type of professionals you need depends on the remodel plans. If your garage is being converted to a room, you need the services of many professionals, including plumbers, electricians, flooring installers, and maybe even a contractor.

IF you are expanding the size of your garage or altering the exterior, you need to involve siding and insulation installers and roofers. If you are looking for simple remodeling, such as adding shelving units or storage, you need to hire a carpenter or handyman to complete the job. Below you will see the various professionals involved in a garage remodel and the average hourly rate you can expect to pay for each.

Advantages of Remodeled Garages

Many benefits come from remodeling a garage. If you do not use your garage for vehicle storage, converting it to a living space provides additional space for recreation or relaxation. Renovating your garage provides better function if you add shelves or storage. This helps you keep your garage organized and looking clean.

If you add onto your garage, you will enjoy the extra space to protect some of your valuable home assets, such as boats, personal watercraft, vehicles, and even yard equipment. Larger garages add a significant amount of value to your home and improve your home’s curb appeal if the exterior has been redone.

While remodeling a garage can be costly, it is an upgrade that adds to the value of your home, so you have a good return when it comes time to sell.

Consult with a pro when remodeling your garage

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Security Cameras

Garages can often be used to store expensive items, including cars. If you are concerned about your garage’s security, add security cameras to the exterior or interior. Security cameras cost between $400 and $800 to install. Adding them increases security and peace of mind.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Permits. You need a permit for most garage remodels. Only surface cosmetic updates do not need a permit. Speak to your contractor or town hall for more information.
• Home value. Remodeling your garage can improve your home’s value. However, garage conversions typically cause your home to lose value unless you add a new garage elsewhere.
• Building codes. Many building codes impact a garage remodel, particularly if you plan to use it for something other than car storage. This includes ensuring you have adequate egress, HVAC, and insulation. This is covered in the permit application.
• Floor paint. When refinishing a garage floor, keep in mind that while floor paint is inexpensive, it does not last long on garage floors. It tends to chip and leaves your floor in poor condition quickly. Solid epoxy systems are the most recommended for garage floors.
• Storage. Consider your future needs for the space when adding storage. It is always best to invest in flexible systems if your needs change over time.
• Return on investment. Remodeling your garage increases the value of your home. You can expect to get about an 80% return on your investment when remodeling your garage, depending on the project you choose.

FAQs

• How much does it cost to remodel a 2-car garage?

The average cost to remodel a 2-car garage is between $7,000 and $15,000, with most people paying around $11,000 for a full remodel.

• Does a finished garage add value?

Yes, remodeling a garage and finishing it adds value. It improves the space’s appearance and function, which can make it more attractive to buyers.

• How much does it cost to remodel a garage into a room?

This depends largely on the room type, but average costs are between $10,000 and $20,000 for spaces that do not need plumbing. Adding plumbing can increase costs to $40,000.

• How can I make my garage look better?

There are many things you can do to improve your garage’s appearance. Finishing the walls and floor and installing organization systems are the most common methods.

• Do garage conversions add value?

No, most garage conversions cause your property to lose value. Having a garage is always more valuable than not having one.

• Should I insulate my garage floor?

This depends on several factors. Is the rest of your garage insulated? Is it heated? What do you do there? If the space is insulated elsewhere and you struggle to keep it warm, then insulating the floor may help.

• How do I maximize my garage space?

Adding a good storage system is a great way to maximize garage space. Overhead storage is also a way to free up floor space while allowing you to keep everything you need.

What is the Average Garage Conversion Cost?

Converting your garage into another living space is a great way to boost your home’s curb appeal and add more space to live. Your garage can feature storage areas for your tools or sports equipment, have home gyms or work areas, or you can use it to add to your functional living space if you don’t use it for your vehicles. Your garage conversion cost will depend on a decent range of factors, and creating a budget for this project can be challenging because small changes can cause large price fluctuations. 

These conversions come in all sizes and shapes, and they range from full conversions ro cosmetic makeovers that make your garage more aesthetically-pleasing. Deciding what you want the finished space to look like is the single biggest factor in your garage conversion cost, so you really do want to think long and hard about how to best utilize the space. On average, you can budget for $7,000 to $22,000 for your garage conversion cost, with most people spending around $13,000 to convert a full two-car garage with a new floor coating and cabinets. 

A cosmetic update to the floor with shelving and wall paint will cost around $3,000, and this is the low end of the spectrum. If you want to turn your garage into a bathroom and bedroom suite, your garage conversion cost can run as high as $40,000 from start to finish. Your labor will be another large cost consideration to keep in mind, and most contractors will charge between 10% and 20% of the final project cost as a flat fee. This works out to an average of $15.00 per hour. 

If you’re considering switching out your traditional garage for something more functional, this guide is for you. We’re going to outline the average garage conversion cost and factors that will influence it in this guide. You can use it to create a budget for this project and ensure that it fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.  

Your garage conversion cost will fluctuate depending on a large range of factors. This can make it difficult to get an exact cost, but you can get a ballpark range and use it to get a working estimate for the project. P1070440 by John Vonderlin / CC BY-NC 2.0

Contents

Garage Conversion Cost by Project Type

If you don’t want to use your garage for storage, you can turn it into additional living space. It works in detached or detached garages, regardless of their size. There is a broad garage conversion cost range because it may or may not be insulated, and they may be finished or unfinished before you start your project. Conversions also must comply with local building regulations and codes, and the permits add around $1,000 to your costs. The most popular projects and their price points include: 

Apartment

Your garage conversion cost to turn it into an apartment will range between $50,000 and $75,000. In order for this to be considered a separate living space then the rest of the house, it has to have its own entrance that is different from your home’s entrance. It needs a bathroom, kitchen, and heating system. 

It’s also required for you to fully finish and insulate the space, and this will increase your costs. It typically means you do both an interior and exterior renovation. If you have an attached garage, you’ll usually have to close the apartment off from the rest of the home to keep it private. 

Bathroom

The average garage conversion cost to add a bathroom runs from $15,000 to $30,000. If you have to run plumbing to your garage, this will increase the costs. You’ll have to add an HVAC system and insulation to the garage. It can be extremely expensive to drill through the concrete to put a waste drain in, and you have a broad range of finishing costs attached. You have several finishes and fixtures to choose from, depending on your bathroom’s style and size.  

Bedroom

To change your garage into a bedroom, your garage conversion cost ranges from $10,000 to $20,000. There are many factors that will influence your final project cost, just like most options on this list. The garage’s finish level, how you want to heat and cool the bedroom area, and whether or not the garage has insulation will play a role. 

Maybe you want to add a bathroom ensuite to the bedroom. If so, this can significantly increase your project costs because you’ll have to deal with plumbing. The garage’s exterior finish also plays in, and most people remove the garage door to prevent anyone from having direct access to the bedroom from the outside. 

Granny Flat

A granny flat is a very small apartment that is on your property, and your garage conversion cost will range from $50,000 to $75,000. This small flat will have its own heating system, entrance, bathroom, kitchen, and other amenities. It has to have insulation, plumbing run, complete interior finish work like drywall, and an HVAC system.  

You’ll most likely have to add an exterior makeover on your garage as well, including making a separate entrance. If you have an attached garage, you’ll have to take steps to close it off to give your occupant an acceptable level of privacy. 

Home Gym

The garage conversion cost to switch it to a home gym ranges between $3,000 and $10,000. The larger cost range depends on how comfortable you want your finished gym to be. If you need to add cooling, heating, or insulation, your costs will start to climb. 

On the other hand, if you decide to skip this and just add mirrors on the wall and mats on the floor, your price will drop to the low end of the spectrum. Equipment costs can vary if you don’t have any. Some complete systems are very expensive while others are not. Consider how you’ll get the most use out of your new gym before you convert. 

Kitchen

Adding a kitchen to your garage has a cost range of $20,000 to $40,000. Much like a bathroom conversion, you’ll have to install plumbing. This can get very expensive to drill through the existing concrete. You’ll also have to budget to add insulation and an HVAC system, and you could have to add a gas line. 

Lighting, countertops, cabinets, and flooring will all have additional cost points to consider when you budget for this project. There may need to be exterior work done to close off the kitchen or ensure it has the proper venting when you use it. 

Living Space

If you want to turn your current garage into an extended living space, the garage conversion cost starts at $7,000 and goes up to $75,000. You can interpret this living space in many ways. It can be a bedroom, playroom for your kids, kitchen, or a finished in-law apartment. 

Your total costs will go up with any plumbing additions, and you also have to factor in an HVAC system and whether you want to use your home’s heating system or if you need a separate one. It usually includes making over the garage’s exterior to give it a living space look over a traditional garage look.  

Mudroom

Turning your garage into a mudroom costs between $7,000 to $12,000 from start to finish. A large portion of the costs will depend on how comfortable you want this mudroom to be when you finish it. Adding heating, cooling, or insulation will increase your garage conversion cost. 

Additionally, adding storage, cabinetry, or updating the flooring type of finish on the garage can cause fluctuations. Do you want to take out the garage door and replace it with a more standard door? If so, you’ll have to factor in additional interior and exterior finish work and siding. 

Office

Creating an office will cost between $10,000 and $20,000 on average. The cost range is broad because it includes how you cool and heat the space. Some garages are finished while others aren’t, and the broad range includes this detail. If your garage has insulation and is currently finished, your garage conversion cost will be lower than an unfinished and uninsulated area. 

It can be very difficult to insulate your standard garage doors, so you’ll most likely remove and replace it. This will bring about exterior renovation costs. The furnishings and flooring types will also factor in, as will the finishing touches you put on. 

Utility Room

On average, your garage conversion cost to switch it to a utility room ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 to make it one of the lowest cost options on the list. You typically don’t finish most utility rooms, and this lowers the overall project cost. Most expenses come from wiring the area for electricity and plumbing. 

Although most garages are already plumbed, most of them don’t have the necessary drains in place for your water heater. So, you’ll have to reroute all of your utilities to this space. If you want to finish this area, it’ll cause your costs to climb significantly. 

Thinking about the type of conversion you want to take on will help you map out your garage conversion costs better. At the very least, it’ll give you a base number to work with that you can use to get a realistic view of the project’s scope. P1070422 by John Vonderlin / CC BY-NC 2.0

Garage Type and Conversion Costs 

Just like any other project you’d take on, there are work levels that impact the outcome of the finished project, and this includes costs. During a garage conversion, it can include a partial conversion like a cosmetic update or a full conversion. Each option has a set of costs to consider, including: 

Full Conversion

On average, expect to spend between $20,000 and $75,00 for your full garage conversion costs. It allows you to turn your car storage area into a functional living space. It includes a bedroom, home office, mudroom, workroom, a full apartment, or a living room. There are many benefits and drawbacks associated with taking this project on. 

This project will allow you to expand your current living space, especially if your garage is currently sitting empty or if it functions as a catch-all for your storage items. They also cost less than you’d spend for adding a full extension to your home. It can lower your home’s value if you decide to sell unless you build another garage. 

Partial Conversion

A partial garage conversion can go up to $10,000. This project can also take on many forms. You could focus on one specific area, like a new doorway. It could also be a full cosmetic update that redoes the walls and floors of the space. 

A partial conversion can help make any older garages look much better, and this makes it more appealing to potential buyers. A partial conversion usually doesn’t change much in terms of the area’s structure. If your garage looks rundown or tired, this is a good option. 

Price Points for Different Improvement Measures

The individual components that factor into your garage conversion costs are also important. Once you understand how much each improvement measure costs, you can easily get a more complete picture of your total project cost. In turn, this makes it easier to budget. 

Door Remodel

To remodel your garage door, you’ll pay between $500 and $2,000. Garage doors come in several styles and sizes, and they can use different materials in the construction. You can pick out a different opening style, how it operates, and whether or not it’s insulated. 

You’ll find out quickly that your garage door cost usually depends on the material and the size you want. It’s normal to remodel the door area when you convert your garage because traditional doors are notoriously hard to insulate. 

Ductless Air Conditioner

The cost to add a ductless air conditioning system to your garage ranges between $700 and $3,000. Most garages are not insulated, so this means that you might need a larger unit than you normally would to help keep the temperature comfortable. If you don’t get a larger unit, you’ll have to run it longer. 

This is why you should factor insulation into your garage conversion cost, and do it before you install your ductless air conditioning system. The size and type of conditioner you pick out will depend on your insulation and the garage size.  

Exterior Makeover

An exterior makeover of your space can add between $1,200 and $6,000 to your garage conversion cost. It can be something as simple as adding a fresh coat of paint, but it usually involves something more complex like adding a new door or siding. 

It’s also a good time to consider adding new decorative hardware, lights or trim. This opens the door to a very broad range of costs and project additions. You want your garage to coordinate with your home’s design aesthetic, even if you have a detached one. 

Finish

If you want to finish your garage, you’ll pay between $500 and $2,000. Finishing a garage can encompass many things. You’ll want to finish the walls and ceiling since many garages have unfinished cavity walls. You could also give your floor a makeover so it’s not plain concrete to make it more comfortable. 

Maybe you want to have a finished wall system like you see in basements to make it look more like a traditional home or space. You can finish your garage in sections, or you can choose to take it all on in one go, and this will impact your garage conversion cost range. 

Insulation

To insulate a garage, you’ll pay between $400 and $1,000. Most garages don’t have insulation in them, so it’s a very good idea to add it if you plan to use it for any other purpose besides car or vehicle storage. You can insulate it in several ways, but you want to make sure you have insulation between each wall stud. 

You can install an insulated door or add insulation beneath the exterior siding on the garage. The most common type of insulation used in garages is fiberglass batts. These are very cost-effective. You can also use other materials like loose-fill if you’ve already finished your garage walls. 

Refinishing the Floor

Refinishing your garage floor will fluctuate from $800 to $12,000. On the low end, you can add a simple coat of concrete paint. On the high end, you could have to fix any significant issues before adding a decorative stain or a full coat of epoxy to seal it.  

The floor’s condition and the finish level you want will decide how much this adds to your garage conversion cost. If your floor is in poor condition, it’ll increase your prices much more than a floor that is in good shape will. There are a range of options available on all the finish types, so you can control exactly how you want your floor to look. 

Soundproofing

If you want to soundproof the floor or the whole space, it’ll increase your garage conversion cost by $250 to $3,500. You can add these soundproofing materials to the walls, floors, ceilings, and door areas. The materials come in several forms, to foam insulation to PET tiles that you can apply anywhere. This causes the costs to fluctuate. 

Storage

Adding storage to your space will cost between $1,500 and $3,000. You can get custom and premade storage variations, and the premade options usually cost less than any custom options. Storage can include peg boards and hooks, or you can go with custom-made cabinetry and workbenches.  

Most people use a combination of the two. Consider your layout and what you want to store to help maximize your space without inflating your garage conversion costs. The most popular storage additions that factor into your garage conversion costs include: 

• Baskets – $10.00 to $75.00

• Cabinets – $100 to $2,000

• Drawers – $50.00 to $75.00

• Hooks – $1.00 to $15.00

• Overhead Storage – $75.00 to $250

• Shelving – $50.00 to $1,000

• SlatWall Rails – $75.00 to $1,000

• Sports Racks – $25.00 to $250

• Tool Storage – $50.00 to $1,000

• Workbench – $150 to $1,500

Your labor costs will factor into your garage conversion costs. The more intricate and involved the project is, the more contractors you’ll need. In turn, this can drive your costs up very quickly, even for a smaller project. IMG_1055[1] by John Vonderlin / CC BY-NC 2.0

Labor Costs

The labor costs are another complicated layer that adds to your garage conversion costs. If you want to refinish the flooring, it’ll cost between $1.00 and $2.00 a square foot for labor, and this doesn’t include materials. If you have a more involved and complicated conversion in mind, your labor costs could skyrocket up to $100 per square foot. You may also need more than one professional, including: 

• Carpenter – $70.00 to $90.00 an hour

• Electrician – $40.00 to $100 an hour

• Flooring Installer – $5.00 to $10.00 a square foot 

• General Contractor – $200 to $300 an hour

• Handyman – $50. 00 to $100 an hour

• Insulation Installer – $1.00 to $2.00 a square foot

• Plumber – $40.00 to $200 an hour

• Roofer – $4.00 to $5.00 a square foot 

• Siding Installer  – $1.00 to $15.00 a square foot

Additional Considerations to Keep in Mind

There are a few other considerations you want to keep in mind when you’re figuring out your budget to cover your garage conversion costs. The biggest ones include but are not limited to: 

• Building Codes – There are several building codes that come into play during a garage conversion, particularly if you want to use it for something other than traditional vehicle storage. You have to have adequate insulation, HVAC, and egress. Your permit application will cover this. 

• Future Needs – Consider what you’ll need in the future before you take on a conversion project. It’s your best bet to turn it into a flexible space if your needs change in the future. 

• Home Value – Converting your garage will impact your home’s value. Unless you add a new garage elsewhere, it can drag the overall value down. 

• Permit – Most conversions require a permit. Surface cosmetic updates don’t require one, but everything else will. Take to your town hall or contractor for prices, and give yourself 7 to 10 days to get it from the application date. 

• Refinishing – When you refinish your floor, you could choose paint to save money. However, paint won’t last long without chipping or peeling. This can return your floor to a poorer condition. Solid epoxy is the best bet for this floor type. 

Where to Find Garage Conversion Contractors Near You

If you’re looking for contractors to get garage conversion cost estimates, you want to start with local, reputable sources. The following resources will give you a solid starting point to being your search: 

• Garage Remodeling Contractors

Frequently Asked Questions 

More and more people are starting to move away from traditional garage spaces and converting them into functional areas. Knowing which questions to ask when you talk to your contractors will help you get a better project price estimate. Starting to Build Some Cabinets – Day 1 by Tom Gill / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

1. Does finishing your garage add value to your home?

Yes. Finishing out your garage will increase your home’s value because it makes the space more flexible to use. It can also make it look more attractive to any potential buyers who see it. 

2. How can you maximize your space?

Adding a solid storage system into your space can help you maximize the workable area you have. Overhead storage is a nice option that’ll free up wall space and help control your garage conversion costs.  

3. Do you need multiple contractors for a garage conversion?

You might. The number of contractors you need will depend on what you need done. If you need plumbing run, you’ll need a plumber. For electricity or wiring, you’ll need an electrician. Any outer work can require a general contractor, but you’ll need a roofer if you do anything to the roof. 

4. Do you have to switch out the garage door?

No, but it’s a good idea. For one, it removes immediate access to the space. The second reason many people swap out the doors is because garage doors are very hard to insulate when you compare them to traditional entryways. 

Bottom Line

Your garage conversion cost will depend on a large variety of factors, including what you want to turn the space into and how finished the space is before you start the project. It’s a good idea to call around and get multiple quotes from reputable companies in your area to lock in the best quotes so you get a space you’re happy with without breaking your budget.

Jen Stark

Jen is a master gardener, interior designer and home improvement expert. She has completed many home improvement, decor and remodeling projects with her family over the past 10 years on their 4,500 sf Victorian house. She is also a passionate farmer who keeps goats, chickens, turkeys cows and pigs on her farm, and an instructor for her community’s Organic and Sustainable Farming project.

Garage project 6.1 x 5.9 m – complete set, prices

• Garage for 1 car
• Garage for 2 cars
• two story garage
• Garage with a canopy
• Garage with hozblok

Garage for one car 6. 1 x 5.9 m – various configurations are possible. The cost of materials for construction and appearance, diagrams, photos.

An ordinary garage 6.2×6 is intended, as a rule, for two cars. The size of this garage allows you to place both cars and jeeps. Example of a special project for a garage 6.1×5.9 m.

Being smaller doesn’t mean it won’t fit two cars. Simply in this case, it’s about a garage for one car and creating ample space for shelving. From such a garage you will get a great place to store tools and accessories. Garage and hozblok in one room.

Some projects built:

Scheme

Views

Prices for sets

Equipment	Components	Set price	Turnkey price
Basic	support frame roofing – metal tiles walls – corrugated board eaves – siding rolling shutter	RUB 762,000	RUB 1,029,000
Extended version	Basic version + drain sectional door window door	RUB 799,000	RUB 1,078,000
Base insulated insulation waterproofing interior decoration – corrugated board	RUB 897,000	RUB 1,211,000
Warm version insulation waterproofing interior decoration – corrugated board	965,000 rubles	1,303,000 rubles

Foundation and transport costs are calculated separately, more about garages on page – Garage project

Garage kit

There are several kit options in Swedish metal garages:

1. Basic kit . It has everything you need to place a car. Walls, roofing, hemming, gates. Ready-made building for placement in the country.
2. Extended . For those who need a drain, a window, a door, we recommend that you take a closer look at this option. A gutter is a really necessary option, both for the house and for the garage. The window will help to ventilate the room. It’s easier to enter through the door.
3. Insulated version (with wall and ceiling insulation). The insulated version can be recommended to those who want more opportunities from the garage. For example, leave the car in winter, install racks or equipment so that it is possible to work in cold weather. 100 mm insulation and films for vapor and waterproofing are added to the garage.

Garage exterior

Roofs and facades

For facades, we recommend S-20 corrugated board (in basic finish), vinyl siding, plinth siding, metal siding for wood, brick and stone and other materials from our range.