Are you ready for more livable space in your home? If you have a garage you may want to think about converting it to another type of room. You can do a garage remodel and create a spare bedroom, garage apartment or playroom. However, just like with other home improvement projects you’ll want to consider residential building codes, building regulations and the amount of money you’ll need to do the garage remodel before you start.

Type of Garage Remodel

Before you begin your garage remodel, you’ll need to decide your target room. Some options include:

• Children’s play space: When weather doesn’t permit children to play outside, a converted garage space can provide an open play area.
• Garage apartment: When extra space is needed, one of the easiest things to do is convert space that you already have.
• Garage workspace: A garage remodel can provide a large, open area to work.

Steps for a Successful Garage Remodel

Inquire about any building code you’ll have to follow. Obtain necessary building permits to follow building regulations, and get plans made for your garage apartment, play space or whichever space you choose. After you’ve secured permits, your garage remodel may include the following:

• Removal of garage doors: Unless you’re planning on keeping the garage door as an entry, you’ll want to remove the doors and its mechanical components. You’ll construct a wall in this empty space.
• Create an entrance: Decide if there will be an entrance from where the garage doors were, or if you’ll need to create one on a different wall.
• Insulate the space: Garages tend to be the coldest area of the home. Living spaces require more insulation.
• Add a closet: If you are creating a garage apartment, this is an important part of a garage remodel.
• Install Lighting: Before you begin the decorating phase of the garage remodel, install all the electrical components you’ll need.
• Paint: Now it’s time to bring the new room to life. Paint the interior.
• Fix the flooring: Most garages have unfinished or concrete floors. For a garage apartment or playroom conversion, you may want to add carpeting or tile.

The Cost of a Garage Remodel

The cost of a garage remodel can vary greatly from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. Features that increase the cost of the conversion include:

• Bathroom addition: The cost of bathroom fixtures and adding plumbing can increase the price of the conversion.
• Flooring: For a home office conversion, it may be possible to add rugs to the unfinished garage floors. This is the cheapest option. If you add carpet, tile or hardwood floors your cost will be raised.
• Utilities: If you’re converting the garage into a garage apartment or entertainment space, you may want additional electrical outlets.