What do you use your garage for? Are you, just like many others across the UK, opting out of parking your garage in there? Is it also filled with items that you haven’t used, seen or even thought about for the past 10 or so years? If so, you may want to re-think about your garage’s functionality.

The space your garage offers can be used for so much more than a storage space, and one thing that many are doing is converting it in to living space. A well-planned, well-executed garage conversion can add up to an additional 10% to the value of your home and is seen as one of the most cost-effective ways to improve its re-sale value.

Not to mention the fact that a garage increases the amount of living space without having to move home – something which would cost a lot of money and take a lot of time.

If you’re looking for a company to help you with any of your garage needs, give the friendly team over at Dencroft Garages a call today.

Does all of this sound good to you? Let’s take a look at some information you’ll need to help you if you’re going to go through with a garage conversion.

Planning permission

Planning permission is only needed if you are planning on altering the shape or structure of the garage. But if you live in a conservation area or listed building, you will most likely need it, whatever work you are doing – even for minor modifications.

Damp-proofing

This will be necessary on the walls and the floor to prevent damp occurring – a problem which is the catalyst for further issues. A lot of garages already have damp-proof course in the walls, but you are best to check. At the same time the floor is re-made, it needs to be proofed by laying a damp-proof membrane across it.

Plumbing and wiring

Be sure to make a thorough survey throughout the garage regarding the plumbing and wiring – locating the main water and soil outflow whilst doing so.

Check the ceiling and walls in the garage for any wiring – re-wiring the garage for heaters, lights and any other output will put additional strain on the household mains.

Flooring

A concrete floor isn’t the best if you’re wanting to regularly use your garage. It is an easy way to lose heat, and therefore it is recommended that you add insulation and then add flooring over the insulation you have laid down.

Walls

External walls must be covered and equipped with insulation and moisture-proofing to meet building requirements. If the house is connected to the garage, the external walls will more than likely already meet building requirements.

Internal walls also need to meet building requirements in terms of fireproofing – meaning one or two layers of fireproof plasterboard must be put up.

If you’re wanting to convert your garage, but you don’t know what to, here is an article about alternative uses for your garage.