Get matched with top pole barn builders in Lake Norden, SD

For a garage to count as living space—and towards your home’s total square footage—it needs to be attached to the rest of your home and have permanent finishings such as proper insulation, finished walls and ceilings, and adequate ventilation. It also needs to be livable at all times of the year, so it should be heated if it gets cold in the winter and cooled for hot summers.

As with most large-scale home renovation projects, you’ll need an architect to map out the exact layout and specs of your above-garage room, which is required in many municipalities. Some general contractors will serve as your architect, or they may bring on a residential architect to assist with the plans.

Building your own garage can save up to 70% of the project cost, or $10,500 on average. However, we don’t advise a total DIY because it can be incredibly dangerous. You can save money by helping out with some aspects, like installing siding or building interior shelving, but you should at least leave planning, foundation work, framing, roofing, and any electrical or plumbing work to professionals.

Your epoxy garage floors will last two to 10 years, depending on foot traffic and maintenance. Clean your floor regularly with a mop or a power washer using a diluted ammonia or degreaser solution. Use five ounces of ammonia per gallon of water or a half-cup of degreaser per gallon of water.

Also, sweep regularly, clean up any spills right away, and install mats in places where you expect the most foot traffic.