How to Finish Garages

The last stage in converting a garage into living space is finishing the structure. That is when walls are closed, the floor surface is put down, plumbing fixtures are installed and heating, ventilation and air conditioning and electrical connections are made. Because the finishing phase involves the addition of both surface finishes and mechanical installations, they must be coordinated with each other. Finish the walls, ceiling and floor first. Follow with the mechanical systems, and then finish the converted structure's exterior.

Drywall sheets (optional)
Ceiling tiles (optional)
Hammer or screwdriver
Nails or screws
Joint compound (optional)
Paint (optional)
Paintbrushes or paint roller (optional)
Prefabricated veneered sheets (optional)
Flooring material
Level
Concrete sealer (optional)
Moisture barrier (optional)
Plywood (optional)
Electrical outlets
Electrical switches
Thermostat
Plumbing fixtures
Exterior siding
Landscaping plants (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Check the electrical wiring on the walls and the ceiling. It is much less expensive to reroute wiring before the original walls and ceiling are covered and painted.
- 2
  Attach drywall sheets to the garage's ceiling joists, or attach ceiling tiles. In some garages, the ceiling can be nailed directly to existing trusses; in others, it may be necessary to install new joists. If you install drywall, coat it with joint compound, and then paint the drywall.
- 3
  
  Wood is the most widely used flooring material.
  
  Nail or screw drywall sheets to wall studs, or use prefabricated veneered sheets on the walls. Coat drywall with joint compound prior to painting.
- 4
  Install the flooring material. If the original garage concrete floor is not completely dry or level, seal it, apply a moisture barrier and build a plywood subfloor on top of the concrete. If the original floor is completely dry, you may attach finished flooring directly. Flooring options include wood, tiles, vinyl sheets, laminate and carpeting.
- 5
  Install electrical outlets and switches, a thermostat and plumbing fixtures.
- 6
  Install exterior siding on the outside of the garage to disguise the conversion. Options include resurfacing the entirety of the exterior walls or patching them so they match the rest of the home. Also consider taking out the original driveway and installing landscaping, including plants.

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