Get matched with top pole barn builders in West Point, MS

If you're handy, you may want to take on building a garage as a do-it-yourself project. However, whether it's a good idea to build a garage on your own or not depends on the type of structure you want to build and local permitting laws. If you want to work with a pre-fab structure, you may be able to DIY. However, if laying a foundation is involved, you're better off working with a professional builder.

Wood, steel, fiberglass, and aluminum are among the top building materials for a garage. Wood is highly customizable, naturally insulative, and durable in mild climates but can be expensive. Steel is lightweight, low-maintenance, and cost-effective, but it’s susceptible to rust. Fiberglass is low-maintenance and doesn’t shrink or expand in changing temperatures, but it can become brittle and crack from prolonged high winds and sun exposure.

Unlike steel, aluminum isn’t susceptible to rust and is low-maintenance, but its ultra-light weight makes it less durable than some materials, and it’s susceptible to saltwater damage, making it a poor choice for coastal homes.

Hiring the right professional to build your garage can be easy if you know where to look. Feel free to ask neighbors or friends for recommendations. If that doesn’t work, platforms like Angi can help you connect with trusted professionals in your area. You can read reviews, compare quotes, and view past projects. Research and interviewing multiple pros goes a long way in making sure you get the garage you want.

The national average cost of a building permit is about $1,600, but this number includes extensive renovations. Homeowners typically spend between $150 and $2,000 in general on one or multiple permits for their project. Conversely, permits for simple projects, such as minor electrical renovations, could cost as little as $10.