Turning a Carport Into a Garage

A garage offers superior protection for your vehicle. Its walls and doors shield your car from theft, vandalism, and harsh weather.

Before committing to this project, learn local building codes and neighborhood homeowner’s association rules. You may also need a permit. Also, be sure to seek the services of professional contractors.

Preparing the Site

Turning a carport into a garage is a practical and valuable upgrade that adds value to your home, protects vehicles from weather elements and provides versatility in storage. However, it is important to take the time to review local building codes and your homeowner’s association (HOA) rules as they may impose restrictions or design criteria you must adhere to.

Before beginning your conversion, inspect the existing structure for signs of damage or termites. Also, be sure the site is level and void of any structural issues such as expansive soils that can damage a carport’s primary framing. If your garage will share a wall with your house or be built near the property line, fire safety regulations require that it have one-hour fire-rated walls.

Converting the Roof

The first step in a successful garage conversion is to ensure that the roof and primary framing are structurally sound. Inspect the existing carport structure for signs of termites and rot, as well as the integrity of the roofing materials.

The next phase involves enclosing the walls. This can be completed with a variety of materials, from vinyl siding for budget-friendly durability to brick veneer for timeless elegance. If you plan to use your new garage for more than just parking, electrical and plumbing installation is essential.

Converting a carport into a garage is a major home improvement project that adds value, versatility and functionality to your property. Be sure to follow local building codes and review regulations imposed by your HOA or neighborhood zoning board.

Building Walls

A carport provides shelter for vehicles but a garage takes it a step further, providing a fully enclosed space that safeguards your vehicle against vandalism and harsh weather conditions. If you want to use the garage for storage or workspaces, it’s a good idea to add doors and windows for better lighting.

The next step involves building walls to create a stronger and more secure structure. A framing carpenter will set up wall frames with studs spaced 16 inches apart to provide stability and support for the walls.

It’s also important to check if the concrete slab flooring is suitable for a new garage. It may be in fine condition but the footings could be too narrow or shallow to support the weight of framed walls. Consult a concrete contractor or structural engineer to check the structure’s integrity and address any issues that require attention.

Adding Windows and Doors

Converting a carport into a garage is possible, but it’s important to carefully consider the project and consult experts when making decisions. This can help ensure that the final results are safe and functional, as well as aesthetically pleasing.

A garage provides enhanced security and protection from harsh weather conditions, which is especially important when storing expensive vehicles. It also offers extra storage space for yard tools, bicycles and other household items.

It’s possible to DIY a carport-to-garage conversion, but it’s often more practical to hire a professional contractor to manage the project. They can help you secure necessary permits and ensure that the work adheres to local codes. They can also provide recommendations and advice on materials, finishes, and construction methods. For example, they can help you decide which garage door best suits your home and lifestyle.

Finishing the Interior

Converting a carport into a garage increases the value of your home, while providing an extra space to store tools, gardening equipment and bicycles. It can also protect vehicles from weather and debris.

Before beginning the conversion process, have a contractor, home inspector or structural engineer examine the existing carport for safety and soundness. Check whether the support posts need to be raised for increased strength, or if the current roofline would look odd once it’s enclosed as a garage structure.

The next step is to build wall frames, using wood framing or concrete masonry units (CMUs). If you plan to install electrical or plumbing, consult with a professional to have those systems run underneath the new foundation. Ensure that the ground is solid enough to accommodate these systems, as well as a drainage system.



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