Is It Time to Build More Living Space?

We’re all spending more time at home these days, and that can make the walls feel like they’re closing in. Imagine being able to have your own gym, a space for the teenagers, or even a home office that’s a little more “away” from home. Everyone dreams of having that extra space. Here’s how you can.

You don’t have to move-- that can cost a fortune anyway. Plus, your kids love their friends and you love where you live, but you’re out of space-- what are you to do?

Add a Second Floor to Your Garage

It doesn’t matter if the garage is attached or detached. Adding on can be the solution that you need.

● It's not going to cost as much as moving: Adding more to your mortgage is generally easier and better than taking on a new one.

● You will be able to recoup the investment when you sell your home.

● If you happen to run into financial issues like the loss of a job, a well-designed additional space could be turned into a small studio that could be rented to make ends meet.

Here are 6 reasons to add a studio apartment over the garage if you’re still not convinced.

Are you ready to get started? First, let’s talk about the five things you need to keep in mind to be successful.

Everyone Has Rules to Follow

Make sure that you check with your municipality before starting, or even thinking about starting, any type of renovation project.

Every municipality (city, town, village, etc.) will have its own regulations regarding expanding your home and the building permits required. There will also be costs to consider, property line laws, and other factors. Some will even get very specific about the details of the way the property looks.

Thinking you can cut corners and cut out the red tape? It’s better if you don’t, according to the infographic from Michael McDermott's article on CRD Design Build:

Go In with Realistic Expectations

How much is your mortgage? What is the going price for homes selling in your neighborhood? Where is that “sweet spot” between making a good investment and spending more than you can recoup?

We’re not bankers or real estate agents. We don’t think about the numbers. We usually just get excited at the prospect of a new project, if only for the decorating and finishing touches. Especially now that many of us are home more often than not, it’s ideal to be able to make it more comfortable and enjoyable.

We’ve been facing some extraordinary times. Our home is often our biggest investment, so when we make changes we have to be careful. It’s important that you take the time to sit down with someone who can provide a cool head and the answers you need.

You should ask the credit specialist:

● What is the bank willing to lend?

● How much will this increase monthly payments?

● How much time will be added to the loan?

● How long do you need to stay to recoup your money in the resale value?

You should ask yourself:

● Is this an investment that will require extensive sacrifice? Will you still be able to travel, dine out, or enjoy activities? Is this going to create a situation that goes on for years?

● Is your neighborhood or city a good place to invest in this expansion, based on resale values?

● Do you have a strong relationship with designers and contractors? Even with the best professionals, renovations can be stressful. If you are excited about it, go ahead. However, if you’re worried about things, think about your decision a little more before making the final call.

According to Fixr.com, adding a second story above your garage cost between $300 and $500 per square foot.

Dream, List, Organize

Still considering this? Not getting too doubtful? It’s time to move.

Get the kids settled and grab your favorite relaxing drink for the evening. Sit down by yourself or with your spouse or partner and start dreaming.

Don’t hold back just yet-- allow all of the wildest ideas that you have to flow freely and make sure that you don’t criticize yourself too much along the way.

Some food for thought - 5 practical considerations

1. Accessing your new space

Attached garage

Based on the specific use of your new space, what will be the best way to access it?

Do you need to access this room from inside your home? If you create a master suite, for example, this could give you a little peace without being too far so that you can still keep an eye.

If you choose to turn the space into a gym, home office, or even a hangout space for the teenagers, would you want to have separate access from outside for privacy?

The most affordable choice is to access the area with the use of an existing staircase so that you’re not spending a small fortune to put in a new one.

Detached garage

Unsure of whether to use an indoor or outdoor staircase? Consider whether you can sacrifice space on the main level of your garage so that you don’t have to shovel snow or deal with the weather.

You can get inspiration on Pinterest, whether you prefer more contemporary styles or traditional. Make sure that you check out the plans, too.

2. Plumbing and electricity

Are you going to build a master suite with a full bath? Perhaps you’re creating a teen hangout that needs a fridge and kitchen area, a half bath, and other plumbing. Maybe you are building a loft or small apartment. You will want to make sure that you check all of the existing plumbing, water, and ventilation and enlist the help of a ventilation specialist and a plumber.

A kitchen, a home theater space, a teen hangout-- why do you need electricity? And what about Internet access?

You’ll need to share with the designer or the architect what your plans are and what kind of plumbing and electricity you need so that the new space is done properly.

And most importantly, don’t try to do this alone. The results won’t be the same.

3. Multifunctional or evolving space?

Eventually, children are going to grow up and leave the nest. You may even find yourself growing older and preferring to have a bedroom on the main floor. This might seem like it’s a far-off concern, but time moves a lot faster than you think.

Think carefully about your plans and talk to a professional who will take care of everything. Knowledge includes planning ahead. You have a second use now and a second life to think about later. Maximize your space, as well as your investment, for today and tomorrow.

4. Any thoughts about the exterior look?

There’s a need to find the balance between sticking to your budget and “while we’re already here”.

If your garage is attached, you’ll need to make sure that you can match the siding, roofing, and other details. Of course, since the original has likely faded over time, this can be tricky.

Plus, it doesn’t always look so attractive. The eye can tell that it’s an extension of your home. Even when you’ve invested a lot of time and money, it’s going to create a look that isn’t attractive. When you go to sell, people won’t be interested because of the mismatched look. That’s why it’s often best to let a professional take care of redoing the entire exterior for the best results.

Also talk to your expert about dormers, roofing, ceiling heights, etc.

The roof can have a variety of shapes, even from a purely aesthetic point of view. The living space will be dependent on the roof design. The ceiling may be full-sized or sloped, and you’ll have to choose whether or not you want dormers.

Some people see those sloped ceilings, dormers, and rooflines as a loss of living space. However, you could change your perspective and see them as storage space. Consider built-ins, such as bookcases, drawers, or shelves.

Ultimately, the goal is to get rid of that “boxy” exterior look that makes your home look unattractive, while also adding a charming, unique look to the interior for maximum space and style.

Use a Mood Board for Better Results

Once you’ve made all those decisions, you’ll need to start thinking about style and decor. Even if it’s only virtual, such as on a Pinterest board that you created, that’s a start. You also choose to make one on paper or with poster board using magazines. Either way, a mood board will help you show your designer what you want.

The things you have in mind when saying "Scandinavian" or "cottage style decors" or "rustic but modern" or simply "blue", could mean something entirely different to someone else.

Check out Pinterest and other decor websites. Find major hotels and trendy restaurants, who can also give you good ideas.

You’ll also want to be clever in the research that you do. Check out Better Homes and Gardens 25 solutions for unusual spaces.

Think outside of the box and look closely at the details. You might not love the entire design, but you happen to like the cabinets or furniture. This can become an inspiration for your own space. Perhaps it’s the colors, the appliances, or another item that catches your eye.

Inspiration is plentiful and can be translated throughout the space to create a cohesive look.

What Will You Do with the Garage Door?

Now that you have a space that is stylish and usable that’s ready to go, don’t neglect that valuable fourth wall.

Is this look for you? It’s a 16’x8’ Eastman E-11 garage door, overlays, and door in Black, 4 lite Panoramic windows.

The garage door is a 4th wall under your new space. When you’re shopping for a garage door, you need to consider more than R-value. Also, find out if your garage door is really energy-efficient or if it’s just a basic door. This is essential to your comfort as well as your energy bills.

Perhaps you’ve got an almost new door, but there are no windows. Natural light is important for your mental health. Consider how easy it is to add windows to your Garaga garage door.

Don’t forget, too, that adding a second floor to the garage means that you first need to make sure it’s a comfortable space to live in.

Is that garage door looking a little worse for the wear?

It’s time to contact a garage door specialist near you. We’ll help you choose the best solution so that your garage door reflects your style and provides you with the protection that you need.

Have you already found your new door?

Mortland Door Systems can deliver an email quotation straightaway.

Give us a call at 1-800-479-7172 to get advice from a real person.

We’ll gladly handle any of your questions and concerns.

Looking for something fun?

Check out our Design Centre to create your perfect door in minutes. If you want some inspiration, we’ve got that, too. Browse our gallery.