How to Pick a Garage

Measure and determine the area required for your garage. This is relative to the size of your home and how you plan to use the garage. If you have two vehicles and you plan to park in the garage, a larger, two-door garage is necessary. If you only need room for one vehicle a single garage will work.

Pick a type of garage. The type of garage is specified as attached or detached. When picking a garage, determine how you will use it. For instance, if you plan to build an apartment over the garage, an attached garage works best. Additionally, if you want to store materials, such as lawn mowers and yard supplies in the garage, a detached may be the answer.

Pick the type of material, since this impacts the cost of the garage. If you have a brick home, adding an attached or detached garage that matches your home is more costly than if you own a home with vinyl siding. Therefore, a detached garage made from different material may be more logical. Consider the cost when picking a garage type and try to stick to a budget.

Contact several contractors. Request a quote from each one with the same plan and materials. A list of contracts is available from your local Chamber of Commerce.

Review the economic aspects. An attached garage offers the benefit of heating and cooling, but this comes with added energy costs. This can drain the energy from your home if doors are left open. Also, adding an attached garage offers the benefit of utilities already connected to the home, making it easier to convert to living space if necessary.

Request a homeowner's quote with each type of garage. For instance, in some areas detached garages cost more to insure. Knowing the future expense assocated with each type of garage may help you make your decision.