Home Garden

How to Enclose a Carport to Make a Living Room

Enclosing a carport to make a living room is one way to add square footage and extra space to your home. Several elements of this project must be factored in when enclosing a carport, including obtaining the necessary permissions and permits, budget limitations, the desired floor plan and any electrical requirements. Select contractors for your carport enclosure with care. Make sure they are licensed, bonded and certified. Costs may vary depending on roof condition, floor level, number of walls currently intact and the size of the space.

Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain permission from your homeowners association. This project may be considered an addition or at least a structural change to your home. You may need to submit preliminary draft plans and inform the homeowners association as to where you plan to park your cars after the carport is enclosed.

    • 2

      Hire architects to draft formal plans and contractors to complete the work. Consult with several architects and contractors to get comparison quotes and estimated timelines. Your contractor will likely assist you with obtaining the necessary building, electrical and plumbing permits, all of which must be received before the conversion can begin.

    • 3

      Complete the core construction, including electrical wiring, insulation, drywall, window installation, new roofing and flooring. These steps will be done by your contractor and may take several weeks to complete. The contractor may hire subcontractors, such as electricians and roofing and flooring experts, to complete these steps.

    • 4

      Finalize the design by painting the room and adding carpet, then installing a new door, locks, moldings and window treatments. Look through pictures online and in magazines to get ideas for how you want your new living room to appear.

    • 5

      Furnish your new living room with furniture, lamps, art and entertainment equipment. Your space is ready to be lived in!