6 Questions to Ask About Building a Garage

A garage is more than just a place to park your car away from the elements. It also doubles as a storage shed and can even be used as a DIY workshop or a home office. If you’re planning a garage-build project, there are several factors you’ll need to consider. Here are some questions to answer before you contact a pro.

1. When do you need this work done?

The urgency of your project and the time of year you want it completed can affect the cost. Asking a garage builder in your area to fit you in ASAP can come at a premium, as can having the work done during the busy spring and summer seasons. If you’re flexible, you’ll have more contractor options and may be able to save money by booking the build in the fall or winter.

2. Has any professional design work been done?

If you’ve been planning this project for a while, you might have already had an architect or designer draw up a blueprint. You can provide this blueprint to the contractor you hire to build the garage or ask them to draw a new one. 

3. What type of garage would you like?

First, you must choose between an attached garage and a detached garage. Attached garages can also be easily connected to your home’s utilities, including plumbing and electricity, and are accessible directly from the house. Detached garages cost more to build, but you’ll have more flexibility with the size and design of the garage. 

Then, you’ll need to know which garage material you want to use. The most common materials are brick, brick veneer, cinderblock, and metal, with brick veneer being the cheapest and cinderblock being the most expensive.

4. What size garage do you want?

Garages can range in size from simple one-car garages to custom three-car garages. Consider how many cars you need to store in the garage and whether you need any additional space for storage, a workshop, or an office. And if you want to park an RV in the garage, you’ll need to ensure it will fit before you begin building.

5. What is your budget?

Knowing your budget ahead of time is essential. The average cost to build a garage is $29,490, with the project typically ranging between $16,810 and $42,200. With this price tag, you’ll likely need to plan and save money or explore financing options. Get several quotes from different contractors before choosing one to ensure the project will fit your budget and check all of your boxes.

6. Do you want any additional features?

If you only need a place to park your car and store seasonal items, your garage design will be pretty basic. However, if you want it to double as a workshop or additional living space, consider what extra features you want to add, like windows, an automatic garage door, insulation, storage and organization, or security devices.