Tips on Turning a Garage Into an Efficiency Apartment

Moisture Removal and Wall Framing

• Framing in the walls and covering them with drywall is an essential part of keeping a garage both looking and feeling like home. Prior to hanging any drywall, however, any existing moisture from leaks or high humidity should be eliminated. These conditions are ideal for mold and mildew growth -- a potentially toxic situation. If the room is naturally humid, investing in a good humidifier is key, and properly sealing windows, doors, pipes and any drains or outlets will take care of leaks. If left unchecked, repairs and replacements later on are likely to carry a significant cost. Wall framing requires at least basic knowledge of carpentry but is a simple way to bring a polished look to the new apartment while at the same time adding a layer of insulation from outside temperatures.

Required Spaces and Additions

• The amount of construction required to build an efficiency apartment in the garage will depend largely on how finished the garage is. Each state has its own requirements for what constitutes an apartment and what is required to make a space available for renting. Prior to beginning any construction project, become familiar with these codes as not adhering to them could have severe financial consequences. At a minimum, an efficiency must have a bathroom, which has been framed in for privacy, and a kitchen complete with cabinets, countertops and appliances. These pieces will require electricity, water and gas, each of which must be installed if not already available. Obtain all necessary permits prior to beginning any remodel or construction project.

Paint

• Paint is an easy, fairly inexpensive way to bring color, style and finish to a newly constructed efficiency apartment. Color is key to making the space feel like home and will go a long way in determining the feel and style of the apartment. In small spaces, particularly those without much natural light, light hues are the best option. Select from shades of white, cream, beige, taupe and a number of pastels, as these colors will make the small space look and feel larger and more open and will reflect light, which increases the overall lightness of the room. If a bit more color is desired, stick to an accent wall in a neutral hue; mossy greens or watery blues won’t be too overwhelming in a small space and are soothing enough for use in just about any room. Avoid dark colors as they will create a look that is smaller and more cave-like than the already small space can handle.

Flooring

• Most garages are outfitted with standard gray concrete which, though functional, isn’t the most aesthetically appealing floor and lends an industrial feel to the space. Adding a new, more attractive floor will make the apartment feel more comfortable and more home-like. Depending on the conditions within the garage, there are certain flooring types that are more preferred for outdoor spaces than others. Concrete floors with a decorative stain, stencil or finish are one option, though they tend to be too cool in winter and too warm in summer. Ceramic tile will resist warping, mildew and mold in garages that suffer from humidity problems, as will engineered wood flooring and most types of stone. The specific choice will depend largely on the location of the garage and the types of temperatures and conditions it will be exposed to. Avoid carpeting as it will show wear and tear faster than other products, and if it gets damp, it is prone to developing mold and mildew problems. For added comfort, add some throw rugs to the floor, which are easy to move around as needed and are much easier to clean than carpet.