Are you contemplating the addition of a garage or carport to your home? It’s important to evaluate the costs, optimal placement, and key considerations before you start. This guide will help you to navigate the process smoothly.
As the suburbs become more crowded and the number of vehicles on the road increases, securing a parking space can be challenging without a dedicated spot. Not too mention the rise in theft and break-ins, more than ever we are looking for secure parking for our vehicles, including boats and caravans. There’s a number of pros, garages and carports offer more than just parking solutions. They can provide additional storage, hobby areas, and even spaces to charge electric vehicles.
Moreover, the benefits extend beyond your current living situation. A well-designed garage or carport can significantly enhance your property’s value, particularly in urban environments where parking is scarce.
Types of Garages and Carports
When adding a parking space to your home, you’ll need to decide between a closed-in garage, which offers more security, and an open-air carport.
1. Freestanding garage: Essentially a large shed with a garage door, a prefabricated steel garage is a popular choice for renovations due to its cost-effectiveness.
2. Custom-Built Garage: Building from scratch is a more expensive option but it does allow for greater design freedom. This approach enables your garage to blend seamlessly with your home, whether it’s brick, cement-rendered, or weatherboard. For this, you’ll need to engage an architect and builder, followed by a garage door manufacturer to complete the project.
3. Standard Carport: The most affordable and versatile option. Designed for durability and value, the STRATCO carport features a strong steel frame with C section beams and heavy-duty roof sheeting that keeps your car cool and protected year-round. Available in both unpainted and painted finishes, this carport provides secure cover from severe weather.
4. Expandable Carport: Carports can be expanded by adding more roof area as needed. Some designs even allow for future conversion into a garage by enclosing the structure and adding a door.
Space requirements
The standard space needed for storing a car is 3.6m x 7.2m. A double garage would thus require 7.2m x 7.2m. Remember to account for larger vehicles and additional storage needs. The available space on your property will often dictate the type of structure you choose. If you have ample backyard space, a detached garage can be a versatile option, offering convenience for storage and potential future conversions, such as a granny flat.
Adding value to your property
Investing in a garage or carport can significantly boost your property’s market value, especially in areas where off-street parking is limited. In some markets, adding a garage could increase your property’s value by over $100,000. This is particularly true for inner-city properties. For instance, homes with car spaces in Melbourne’s urban areas often sell for substantially more than those without. Additionally, properties with secure parking are more attractive to tenants, allowing for higher rental rates.
Beyond parking, consider the value of extra living space. A garage can be converted into a home office, study, granny flat, or additional storage, meeting the growing demand for flexible work-from-home spaces post-pandemic.
Key considerations
1. Council Regulations:
– Development applications: Many councils require a development application for permanent structures like garages and carports.
– Design regulations: Some regulations may affect design aspects such as waterproofing if the garage is to be habitable.
– Exemptions: Prefabricated garages may qualify for certain exemptions related to proximity to boundaries and other buildings. Always check with your local council as regulations vary.
2. Planning and Layout:
– Usage: Determine how many cars will be parked and if there will be space for a workbench or extra storage.
– Design: Decide if the garage will mirror the look of your home and if you want to include living space now or in the future.
– Amenities: Consider the need for lighting, power points, roller doors, and EV charging stations.
Adding a garage or carport is a significant investment that requires careful planning and consideration. By understanding your options and planning accordingly, you can enhance both the functionality and value of your home.
