Single garage conversion ideas: 49 garage conversion ideas to add more living space to your home

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5 garage door conversion ideas

 

As a homeowner on a home renovation spree, you might want to convert your garage doors for multiple reasons. Maybe you want to enhance your garage’s aesthetic appeal or remodel and convert it into an ADU (accessory dwelling unit). 

A couple of other garage conversion ideas include a makeshift game room, a playroom for kids, a living room or a home office. No matter the reason, replacing your existing garage door with a sturdy, versatile and insulated garage door is always a good choice. 

In this article, we help you with different garage door conversion ideas and the costs involved in the process.

 

How much does it cost to convert a garage door?

While the cost attached to a garage door conversion varies a lot, here’s a rough idea of what it entails.

Cost of the garage door

Modern-day garage doors are built to enhance security and privacy. Garage doors come in several price ranges — the key differentiators are style, hardware, size and material.  

Buyers look for function, aesthetic appeal, durability and insulation the most when it comes to making a purchase decision. 

For those with a smaller budget, a single, non-insulated door costs around $300 (excluding installation costs). Non-insulated doors are a great choice for areas with moderate temperatures. However, if you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you might have to look for high-end, insulated versions (since they are energy-efficient).

If you plan to enhance your home’s curb appeal, you can choose to invest in carriage-style garage doors or raised-panel garage doors. The cost of such doors can range from $1,000 in the case of a single door to $4,000 for customized and sturdy double doors. 

Installation and conversion costs

Per HomeAdvisor, the average cost of garage door installation is around $1,159. The typical range fluctuates between $753 to $1,595, depending on the type of door. 

  • Cost of a single garage door: $600 to $1,500
  • Cost of a double garage door: $800 to $1,500

During the conversion project, you may have to pay extra to disassemble the old garage door.  

 

5 garage door conversion ideas

DIY home improvement projects are exciting. However, you may need a handyman to help with installing or removing garage doors. We’ve picked a list of popular garage door conversion ideas to help you decide which appeals to you. See the ideas below:

Single to double garage door conversion

A single to double garage door conversion is the procedure to convert two single garage doors into one big door. It is a good investment for businesses and families alike. While two single doors were a good option before, they aren’t as useful today. 

Small cars, for example, could easily fit inside the garage with just one door open. But as the cars are getting bigger, they need more space, and it can be a hassle to open and close two independent doors on a daily basis. That’s where double garage doors save time. Plus, double garage doors look aesthetically pleasing. 

If you wish to convert your single garage doors into a double door, it is necessary to know the perks so that you can make the best decision that aligns with your lifestyle —  and budget, of course.

Benefits of a single to double garage door conversion include:

  • More space to walk or park big vehicles that cannot squeeze between smaller gaps. 
  • Makes your home look bigger, enhancing its appearance and possibly increasing its value.
  • More accessibility for anyone who uses a wheelchair or needs additional space to get around. Double garage doors provide additional space to move in and out of the car with ease.
  • No need to scour through the home to find multiple remotes for two doors  — with a double garage door, you only need one remote to operate it. 

Double to single garage door conversion

If you fancy the idea of converting your double garage door into single garage doors, it is advisable to proceed only if your existing garage is at least 22 feet wide. That way, you can be sure that there is enough space to comfortably get in and out of your car. It also grants you complete control over how much of your garage’s inner space is revealed to the outside. Double garage doors are known for their flexibility. Here are some more benefits to consider:

  • Backup plan in case of surprise breakdowns. Like all appliances, garage doors can have sudden breakdowns, such as a failure in the garage door spring (also called the torsion spring). In case one of the doors malfunctions, the other door can be used as a backup plan. 
  • Save money on repairs. Here’s the drill: Two single garage doors mean there will be two opener systems, two photo eye sensors, and so on. When it comes to maintenance and repairs, single garage doors can cost more. On the contrary, double garage doors have a single system installed, which means you can save on repairs. 
  • Extra space for larger vehicles. If you have a large vehicle, or plan to buy one in the near future, a double garage door makes it easier to park and provides more room to load and unload items.  

Conversion to carriage-style garage doors

Originally, carriage-style garage doors were built with wood with iron hinges. However, they have received much-needed enhancements since their heyday, and the woodwork is quite detailed. Carriage-style doors are designed with crisscross planking similar to a barn, and they come fitted with sturdy handles and elegant window inserts. Refer to the image above as an example.

Carriage-style garage doors are appealing because they complement all types of homes — new or old. Versatile, strong and classic, they have all the features a good garage door needs. 

Here are the benefits:

  • Add to your home’s aesthetics. Carriage-style garage doors were around even before cars were popular. So, their vintage appeal is enough to improve your home’s style and value. 
  • Tiny windows let sunlight pass into your garage. With these garage doors, you get both privacy and natural light.   

Conversion to garage doors with integrated windows

Windows can transform a simple-looking, solid-paneled garage door into a contemporary and stylish design. While you may think that windows are an unnecessary distinction, there are a few benefits that will make you want to consider them:

  • Save energy thanks to natural light. Remodeling your car garage and converting it into a workout area, home office or kid’s room is fun. However, a pitch-dark setup can be monotonous. Natural light can help cut down on your energy bills, and you don’t have to miss your daily dose of vitamin D.   
  • Highly customizable. If you are a DIY enthusiast, the good news is that you can be creative with garage doors. You can go with rectangular panes, multiple rows of windows or something more ornate, like a design with a colorful centerpiece similar to a diamond. You can also choose to match them with your home windows.  

Conversion to wooden garage doors

If you are on a home improvement spree, converting your garage doors into wooden garage doors — such as high-quality European-style or French doors — can complement your new design. Wooden garage doors add elegance to your home, but there are more benefits that you cannot miss. 

  • Options to customize are unlimited. Today, you can find an extensive variety of timber, stain and hues to inject that curb appeal into your home. 
  • Wood is a renewable resource. Installing a wooden garage door is an eco-friendly choice. 
  • Wooden doors are timeless. If you love rustic and classic home decor, then consider investing in a wooden door. 
  • Wooden doors are sturdy and long-lasting. Wood by default has an incredible natural strength. Wooden garage doors are built with solid hardboard panels and a hemlock frame to last longer. Additionally, scruffs and scratches are barely visible in comparison to other materials, thanks to wood’s natural grain and distinct patterns. 

 

Protect your garage door opener from expensive repair costs with Cinch

Upgrading your home from an unattractive door to an attractive and more efficient one can be a costly feat, though many will tell you it’s worth every penny. Like other home equipment, your garage door opener calls for proper maintenance and protection in order to function. 

Surprise garage door breakdowns can jeopardize your privacy — and the overbearing repair costs pose a serious concern. If you have recently undergone the process of creating a converted garage for a living space, then keeping your space insulated with a working garage door is essential. 

Save yourself from such situations with a Cinch Home Services Built-in Systems plan. It covers major components and parts located inside the ceiling-mounted electric motor. 

Additionally, this plan covers essential home appliances that are prone to breakdowns from wear and tear, like washers, HVAC systems or built-in food centers. Learn more about Cinch here or get a quote today!

 

Single Garage Conversion Ideas to Add More Living Space

If you’re looking for ways to add more living space to your home, converting a garage can be a great option. A converted garage can offer additional square footage and flexibility and also add value to your home. In this article, we’ll explore some creative ideas regarding single garage conversion that can meet your unique needs and lifestyle. From a bedroom or rental unit, there are a lot of possibilities that can turn the garage into something and add value to your home.

 Before starting a garage conversion project, there are a few things to think about. To make sure that your garage conversion is effective and fulfills your demands, there are numerous things to consider, from construction laws and permits to insulation and ventilation. The things to consider and some ideas for single garage conversion into a living area are discussed in this article, along with the important factors you should bear in mind before beginning.

What to Consider?

One excellent approach to expand the size of your home and raise its worth is to turn a single garage into a living area. Before starting this project, there are a few things to think about. The following are important things to bear in mind:

1.   Research Zoning First

The project’s success or failure depends on the legal aspects of turning a garage into a residential space. In certain places, the prevalence of house sharing has made it more challenging to get permits for garage conversions. You must research local regulations for single garage conversion into a livable space even if you don’t intend to share or rent out your conversion. In certain circumstances, you might need to offer enough off-street parking to make up for lost garage parking spaces.

2.   Financial Expectations

A garage conversion fully outfitted as permitted, habitable space will never be cheap. Instead, think of it as a less expensive method of building an addition. You must set a budget if you are planning for a single garage conversion for an extra living space.

3.   A Plan

A great plan will help you guide the process of building the garage. Hiring a contractor will be a great help since you will not worry about anything and they can provide you with estimates of the costs and give you a layout of what design you do for your garage.

4.   Insulation and Ventilation

The ventilation in garages may not be sufficient for living areas because they are frequently poorly insulated. To control temperature and air quality, be sure to insulate the walls and ceiling, and think about adding windows or a ventilation system.

5.   Plumbing and Electrical

Make sure the plumbing and electrical systems in your garage conversion are suitable for the new fixtures if you intend to add a bathroom or kitchen. A qualified contractor may be required to install or alter these systems.

6.   Access and Safety

Make sure the single garage conversion has a secure entry and exit, as well as enough lighting and door and window locks. Additionally, confirm that the area complies with construction regulations for accessibility and safety.

7.   Flooring and Walls

Consider putting in walls and floors that can survive regular use and are resilient to dampness. To reduce noise, you could also choose to soundproof the walls. You may design a practical and cozy living area in your garage that satisfies your requirements and increases the value of your house by carefully considering these issues and planning ahead.

Single Garage Conversion Ideas to Add More Living Space.

Before doing a single garage conversion, give some consideration to how you want to use the living space. Do you want it to be a kind of place where you can bond with your family such as watching a movie or maybe a space for your fitness lifestyle or do you want it for an extra income? Here are some garage conversion ideas:

1.   Bedroom

A popular single garage conversion is converting your small garage into a bedroom. It is one way to give you extra space to sleep in. You can accommodate your relatives or guests without having trouble thinking about where they can sleep. Consider adding a small bathroom to the space if you have a room, or plan for access to a nearby bathroom.

2.   Home Gym

You can set your single garage based on your lifestyle. If you want to hit the gym but cannot do it since it is far, a single garage conversion into a home gym is a good idea. It will need air conditioning and a window to give you natural light and can open to keep it fresh. Opening the garage door will make you feel like working out. You can also add mirrors, add rubber matting to the garage floors, and even a flat screen tv to make your workouts more enjoyable.

3.   Home Offices

If you want a private space where you can do your take-home office work, a single garage conversion into a home office is a good idea. You can have online meetings without having a distraction. This way, you can separate your work life from your home life. You can add desks, shelves, and storage to make your work area functional and efficient.

4.   Living Room

Living in a garage is not a bad idea. You can add a couch for sitting, and a tv where you can watch. An extra space where you can hang out with your family and friends. You can also add bookshelves and storage rooms for games and entertainment.

5.   Laundry Room

A wonderful option to increase the utility of your house is to turn a single garage into a laundry room. A laundry room may provide practical storage for cleaning products, a place to fold clothing, and a place to use and care for your washer and dryer.

6.   Home Theater

Everybody loves watching movies. A single garage conversion into a home theater is perfect for your family bonding who loves watching movies.

7.   Kid’s Playroom

If you have a kid and need a space where your kids can play, having a playroom is a good idea. You can have a fun and safe playroom with colorful flooring and walls, storage for toys, and comfortable chairs for your children. You can also add a chalkboard or other fun activities for them to enjoy.

8.   Kitchen Space

If you want to have your dream kitchen, a single garage conversion into a kitchen space will make your dream come true. You can enjoy cooking with the design of your dream kitchen.

9.   Room Rental

Consider turning your garage into a rental property if you want to make more money. This may be a fantastic method to increase the value of your house and earn passive income.

A single garage conversion can give benefits such as additional living space, rental income, home value, versatility, and sustainability. Before doing a single garage conversion into a living space, you will have to get garage conversion permits and approved planning permission. Having a contractor will help you to get those requirements and make your garage turn into a functional and stylish space.

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