“One of the best ways to increase the size and value of your home is to convert the garage; our straightforward guide covers all you need to know to get started.“
A garage conversion is an ideal option to add extra space to your home without extending, and in many situations, it won’t even need planning approval.
Although giving up your garage for living space entails giving up a covered parking place, most of the time this sacrifice is entirely justified when extra rooms are required.
Comparing garage conversions to extensions, there are additional advantages. While they are not always cheap projects, they are typically less expensive, quicker, and easier to complete, making them one of the most affordable options to increase the square footage of your home.
Our article will address all the common questions people considering this kind of home improvement have if they’re wondering if a garage conversion is an appropriate choice for them.
We go through everything, from the requirements for obtaining a planning permit for a garage conversion to information on codes and regulations to the specifics of the project’s operational aspects.
WILL A FLAT GARAGE ROOF NEED REPLACING?
If, upon investigation, you discover that water is pooling on the flat roof, this could lead to issues in the newly constructed area below. It will be necessary to fix the roof and inspect the structure’s foundation for damage.
On sometimes, the entire roof needs to be replaced. This is occasionally a good finding. Although you might need planning approval, switching from a flat roof to a pitched design can visually connect the additional room in with the rest of the house.
HOW MUCH VALUE WILL A GARAGE CONVERSION ADD?
Increasing the usable floor area of your home would probably increase its financial value, and a garage conversion can add as much as 15%, according to estate agent Portico. However, you must take into account the specific conditions of your property.
Does your home actually require more space? Is there plenty of on-road parking or a drive you can use to park? What is the maximum price in your region? These elements will influence how appealing your house is to prospective purchasers and may influence how much the value of converting a garage increases overall.
DO GARAGE CONVERSIONS NEED PLANNING PERMISSION?
Planning permission is not necessary for the majority of integral garage conversions because they come within permitted development. It is still recommended to check with your local authorities.
You will almost likely need planning clearance if you live in a conservation area or a listed structure. When a house or garage is built, it is also important to look for any planning restrictions that may be associated because, in some situations, garages may need to continue serving as parking. If there are restrictions, an application must be made to lift them.
It’s possible that some places, particularly Conservation Areas, have eliminated the PD rights for garage conversions. This might also be true in places where parking on the street is a problem.
HOW MUCH DOES A GARAGE CONVERSION COST?
You should set aside at least £1,000/m2 in your budget for garage conversion costs. Construction, as well as expenses for design, planning, building regulations, and structural engineers, might be obtained for this cost, however, finishes and furniture would not be included. Depending on the amount of work and finish you select, this could easily increase to between £1,500/m2 and £2,000/m2.
DO I NEED AN ARCHITECT FOR A GARAGE CONVERSION?
The scope and intricacy of the project should be taken into consideration because this is very much a personal choice.
Using an architect, architectural technologist, or another form of design specialist will result in professional design input and ideas that you might not have considered. A design expert will also have helpful contacts in the industry and will be familiar with working with Building Control.
Architect fees must also be considered; depending on the complexity of the design, anticipate to pay anywhere from £1,200 to £3,000 for design expenses.
Who Should Build My Garage Conversion?
Some people decide to create their own design and perform a DIY garage conversion; this is a fantastic option for those with limited resources and the time to get started.
You might also hire a contractor who comes highly recommended; most competent builders can handle a garage conversion.
Another choice is to work with a garage conversion specialist. These businesses typically have a lot of experience, but as with all of the options above, make sure to inspect finished products and get references first.
A garage conversion specialist should have a lot of experience dealing with any planning or building regulation concerns that may arise with garage conversions.
Can I Add Another Story to My Garage Conversion?
It is important to think about the area above an integral, single-story garage when converting it into living quarters. Could adding a story be an option? This is a great idea to consider if you want to add more first floor space without expanding the size of the property overall.
It goes without saying that adding a second story requires more work and money, but the increased value of the house should make it worthwhile. It is almost clear that the current foundations will need to be examined and improved, and there will be additional Building Regulations to take into account. For instance, the new floor in the upstairs space and the garage ceiling must both accomplish a minimum of 30 minutes of fire resistance.
There will also be issues with thermal and sound insulation to think about.
There’s a good possibility we’ve converted one just like yours before.
KEY THINGS TO THINK ABOUT
What Do You Want Your Loft to Look Like from the Outside?
Check out the loft conversions in your area. Most likely, they are nearly the same size and shape, but if you pay close attention, the exterior’s features and finish are extremely different.
Theoretically, the conversions ought to appear the same if the houses do. Outside the strictest conservation areas, many terrace houses have evolved over time to resemble their neighbors rather differently. It follows that it is not strange that conversions also don’t appear identical.
As a result, you might have the option to collaborate with your loft conversion architect to design a component that enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home rather than serving solely as a functional addition.
Our designers at Buildrite always ensure the best innovative ideas for clients. Therefore, our team is open to any queries from our clients regarding design.
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