Step-by-Step on How to Convert a Garage to a Room
Converting your garage into a spare room adds more living space to a home, often without the expense of major structural changes. Whether you need a playroom for the children, a teenager's bedroom, or a home office, changing your garage can do the trick.
With attention to walls, a heating source and a new floor, what was once space for the family car can become the family room for all to enjoy.
Things You Will Need
- Pliers
- Screwdrivers
- Hammers
- Insulation
- Drywall
- Lighting and wires
- Paint
- Carpet or wood flooring
- Mask (optional)
Tip
Check with your local building code office before converting a garage to ensure that building codes are met.
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Remove the garage door, unless you plan on making a three-season room to include sliding screen or glass door. Build a wall that closes in the garage-door opening, incorporating a window if it is part of your design plan.
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Insulate the walls, since most garages are kept cool and have none. Either add insulation in sheets and cover it with drywall, or have it blown into the walls and then cover them. Use a mask if you are installing your own insulation sheets. Consider hiring a professional if you plan to use blown-in installation.
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Add a closet, or if it is part of your plan, a bathroom at this stage of the renovation. Install lighting that matches the rest of the house. Determine if the garage can be connected to the main heating source of the house. If not, install an alternate heating source. Ensure that the door connecting the entry from the garage to the rest of the house is inviting.
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Paint the inside of the room. Next, either install carpet over the concrete floor or create a new floor of laminate or tile. Decorate the new room with your theme and add furnishings.
The Drip Cap
- Converting your garage into a spare room adds more living space to a home, often without the expense of major structural changes.
- Build a wall that closes in the garage-door opening, incorporating a window if it is part of your design plan.
- Consider hiring a professional if you plan to use blown-in installation.
- Paint the inside of the room.
References
Writer Bio
Edith Robb has been a professional writer and editor since 1970. A winner of the Atlantic Journalism Award for commentary writing, she holds a Bachelor of Administration degree and a Master of Arts in integrated studies with a major in cultural studies, both from Athabasca University.
Photo Credits
- renovation 03 image by Undy from Fotolia.com
- renovation 03 image by Undy from Fotolia.com
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