Converting Carport to Garage

Adding a garage to your home is an excellent way to increase its value and provide a safe place for cars and other vehicles. However, you must carefully consider whether an existing carport is structurally sound enough to support walls and a garage door.

Enclosing a carport into a garage is less expensive than installing a new garage, provided that the carport’s slab and roof support posts are in good condition. However, it can still cost up to $9,000 for labor alone.

Consider the Aesthetics

Carports typically have gable or shed rooflines, which may not fit the aesthetic of your home. A re-shingle job can make the carport look more integrated with your garage, and can help you achieve the style you’re looking for.

If the existing roof is in poor condition, it’s best to replace it as part of your conversion project. You’ll also want to consider your garage’s height, as you’ll need enough room for a door opening and a suitable overhead clearance for a vehicle.

You’ll need to add walls to the sides of the carport, and possibly the front. You’ll also need to install a garage door, and modify the existing frame to accommodate it. Depending on your needs, you may need to drywall and paint the new space. You’ll also need to reroute electricity and plumbing, if needed, so it’s best to consult with professionals before starting the work. These upgrades can add value to your property and increase the resale value of your home.

Site Selection

A carport is a great place to park your vehicle, but it doesn’t have the same functionality as a garage. Garages offer full four-wall protection and can be used as a productive workshop, cozy man cave, or chic she-shed. And because they’re often found on the property line, they add value and curb appeal to your home.

But before you start planning a carport to garage conversion, be sure to check with your local building codes and HOA regulations. You may need a permit to make changes like adding a garage door or installing electrical. You also might need to build a foundation and pour footings, or you may have to meet fire safety requirements by adding a one-hour fire-rated wall or ceiling.

Once you have the necessary permits, you can start the construction process. Framing and foundation adjustments set the stage for your new garage, and selecting high-quality materials will ensure durability and energy efficiency. Finally, adding personal touches breathes life into your garage space and transforms it from a utilitarian structure to a modern, multifunctional extension of your home.

Building Permits

Converting a carport into a garage is an excellent way to enhance your property’s value and usefulness. A garage provides enhanced security and protection for vehicles, bicycles, lawn equipment and tools from theft, vandalism and harsh weather conditions. It also offers a more convenient location for storing such items than in the open, unprotected carport.

Depending on your community’s rules and regulations or homeowner’s association, you may need to secure a building permit for this project before starting work. You should also check whether your new garage is allowed under the existing roofline or if you must make changes to it.

The foundation or slab under your carport must be reinforced to support the weight of a garage, and a new drainage system might need to be installed as well. The primary framing of the structure must be examined for signs of rot and wood worm infestation. A masonry stem wall should be built about six to eight inches high around the concrete slab. This is essential because a solid, durable wall can prevent water from accumulating in puddles on the ground and rotting the carport’s floor.

Cost

The cost of converting a carport to garage varies depending on the structure’s condition and what modifications are made. A professional builder will make accurate plans for the new structure to ensure it comfortably accommodates vehicles, offers convenient access and complies with all local zoning, building and fire safety regulations.

If a carport’s concrete slab and support posts are in good condition, the structure can easily be framed with walls and a garage door to create a new garage. But if the slab is damaged, or if the support posts are leaning or rotted, the structure may not be viable for conversion.

Additional costs may include finishing materials, electrical service upgrades, windows, an entry door and permits. The project can also involve a plumber if homeowners choose to run plumbing to their new garage. Plumbing can save time and effort when washing cars or storing large appliances in the garage. A new garage may also require a new HVAC system.

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