5 Questions to Ask About a Garage Remodel

Garages provide space to park your car or store your belongings. But sometimes, you need that space to serve a different purpose. Whether you’re planning to remodel your garage into a workshop, a home gym, or an extra bedroom, here are the questions you should ask yourself before you hire a pro.

1. When do you need your garage remodel completed?

The urgency of your garage remodel project can determine its cost, as can the time of year it’s completed. A garage remodel costs between $7,000 and $30,000, with an average of $18,000. If you need your garage remodeler to work quickly or plan to complete it in peak season (typically spring and summer), expect to pay more for your remodel. However, you can save money if you’re flexible in your timeline and can schedule in the quieter seasons of fall and winter.

2. What type of garage remodel do you want?

Garage remodels can vary widely based on the number of changes you want to make. For example, if you wish to add a workshop, your project will take less time, materials, and labor than transforming your garage into a new bedroom or living space. A simple remodel costs around $3,500, while adding a workshop to a functional garage costs $2,000. Turning your garage into a home gym can cost between $200 and $6,000, and adding a bedroom can cost $20,000 (or $45,000 if you add a bathroom). Generally, the bigger the garage remodel, the more it will cost.

3. Do you want to add or replace drywall?

Most garages have drywall hung inside, but if you’re converting your garage to a living space, you’ll need to add drywall to turn it into a functional room. Once your contractor adds drywall, it must be finished and painted. You’ll also need to choose the right type of drywall for your garage remodel. For example, if you’re adding a kitchen or bathroom, you’ll need to install moisture- and mold-resistant drywall, like green, blue, or purple board.

4. Do you want to replace the garage door?

If you plan to keep the garage’s original function after the remodel, you may need to replace the garage door. If your existing garage door is in good shape, you may consider keeping it to save money and reduce waste. Garage door replacement costs $750 to $1,700, or an average cost of $1,220. Expect to pay more for a wood, false wood, or composite door. Vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum garage doors are generally the most affordable.

5. Do you want to add or replace flooring?

Adding new flooring to your garage can complete the remodel. Adding an epoxy coating to the concrete garage floor is the easiest way to finish the flooring. It’s also affordable; epoxy flooring costs $1,610 to $3,420 and can be added directly to a concrete floor. If you prefer to install a tile, wood, vinyl, laminate, or carpeted floor, you may need to add a subfloor over the concrete. A subfloor can help keep the garage warm and dry.