Two-story garage additions can double the return on your investment compared to other garage styles. You get twice the space from one excavation and foundation. You can earn rental income by developing garage apartment plans or avoid paying for mini-storage and keeping your things on the garage second level. Having gym equipment at home may be convenient, while also saving you those membership fees.

If you have a growing family, you can take advantage of a two story garage to create a:

• Bedroom
• Family room
• Game room
• Play room
• Study
• Utility room
• Work shop.

Depending on how spacious the garage second level, you could create a private guesthouse or studio apartment as part of your garage remodel. With about 25-by-25 feet of space, second-level garage apartment plans could include a:

• Bath
• Bedroom
• Kitchen
• Living room.

Garage apartment plans may be convenient and comfortable for:

• Close housing for aging parents
• First apartment for a recent graduate
• Independence for high school or college students
• Private guest quarters
• Rental apartment.

Garage Remodel Plans for a Garage Second Level

Whether you develop garage apartment plans for your two story garage, or create additional living space for your family during a garage remodel, you must meet all building codes in order to make it a “legal” living space.

Codes for this type of garage remodel vary in different locations, but may require a licensed electrician or plumber. In order to heat and cool the garage second level, you can extend your home’s systems or install separate units. Make sure to comply with the ventilation requirements given with the system you use: These units are dangerous when installed incorrectly during a garage remodel.

When developing living space on the second level of a two story garage, there will be more codes to follow, since garages usually store flammable substances. Doors between the garage and the second-level may have to be self-closing and self-latching, and made of steel or solid wood. You’ll also need to include in your garage remodel an evacuation exit that doesn’t involve the garage door.

Garage remodel codes will also specify materials necessary for supporting furniture and appliances on the garage second level. This is especially true for bathtubs, which weigh more when filled with water. When two story garages are built to code, upstairs weight shouldn’t be a problem.

The Big Picture

Weigh the pros and cons of uses for the second level of your two story garage, including comparing costs and savings. Can you save money by using the garage loft for storage rather than renting storage space elsewhere? Would you get more use out of a home gym, or a club that charges membership fees? Garage apartment plans may offer rental income, or it could be living space for aging parents for years to come. However you use the space above the garage, you’ll enjoy the convenience, income or value it adds to your home.