Converting a garage to a bedroom: a how-to guide
Converting a garage into a bedroom is a great way to add additional space to your home, provide space for a teenager or elderly relative or create additional income by renting it to a tenant.
Converting a garage is typically cheaper than taking on a full-blown extension, but the downside is you will lose your indoor parking space (obviously).
There is much more to converting a garage to a bedroom than simply adding furniture. While it is considerably cheaper than an extension, renovators should prepare for significant upfront costs.
To that end, there are a few structural changes you will need to attempt first.
Proper insulation, flooring and waterproofing
Garages typically do not have the same insulation as the rest of your home would. When poor weather comes through, the tenant is likely to either freeze or fry depending on the season. Correctly insulating the room is your first step. You should also cover the cold concrete flooring with new carpet or floorboards. Nothing screams “this was a GARAGE” quite like tire treads and oil-stained concrete. Since garage floors are not elevated, you will also have to make sure water cannot enter the room. You may need to elevate the floor or have an expert check it out.
Windows, lighting and power
Adding appropriate lighting will do wonders for the liveability of the room. If there are no windows, you will need to add some. Windows will increase the light and ventilation of the room, which will make it feel much more like a part of the home.
You will also need to arrange for an electrician to install power points for lighting, heating and cooling units if required.
Interior walls
If you are looking at three walls of brick, you may want to consider installing new walls. You may also consider building an insulated wall in front of the existing garage doors to complete the illusion the room is a part of the rest of the home. Just like a quick paint job can instantly lift a room, so too can adding standard plaster.
Design
Once you have the structural elements ready, you can begin on the design. If you have a double garage you are generally going to have a fair amount of space to play with to add a bedroom suite, lounge suite or whatever your family requires. A garage typically does not come with built-in storage space, so allowing for free-standing wardrobes, drawers or shelving is wise. Don’t be afraid to move things around to look for the optimal and most efficient design.
Whenever adding extensions or additional rooms to your home you will need to contact your local council to obtain the correct permits, so be sure to do this straight away. If done correctly, a garage renovation can be a great benefit to your family. Be sure to get professional help if you are not confident, and do not cut corners to ensure your new bedroom will be a safe and comfortable one.
What do you think about converting a garage to a bedroom? Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!
