How To Convert A Carport Into A Garage

Can you convert a carport into a garage? The short answer is – Yes! It’s a great way to add some extra space to protect your storage or create a cozy retreat. To start, the first thing is to examine if the carport’s structure is sturdy enough to support walls and other accessories. You will also need to add frames for windows and doors. Next, you need to consider necessary accessories such as insulation and vents for a comfortable indoor. However, before starting any revamp, it’s best to secure a permit for conversion.

Here Is How To Build A Garage Out Of A Carport

List Of Things You Will Need

Step 1. Assess The Structural Integrity Of Your Carport

Clean The Carport Thoroughly

Before you reach for a hammer and screwdrivers, a little inspection is crucial to learning about the health of your metal carport. First, clean it with warm water and mild soap. Let it air dry. Once it’s completely dry, you can start inspecting.

Examine The Existing Carport

Start with the roof. Check to see if there are any holes, gaps, cracks, or paint fading away. If you notice any rust, fix it promptly. You can use a sturdy ladder to reach the top. Next, inspect the metal frames and foundation. If you notice any issues like missing/ loose screws or crack at the edges of the base, fix them.

Create A Plan For Carport To Garage Conversion

Take a pen and paper. Draw a rough layout of your carport. Now, add side walls. Think about doors and windows placement. Next, figure out which side you will park your car [if you want parking + workspace]. Add storage, furniture [desk, chairs, etc.], or other necessary items. Don’t forget to follow up with your local building codes for design requirements.

See if your current carport size can accommodate all of them. If not, you can add a lean-to to your design. It will be a permanent metal awning that can be used as a seating area, a covered patio, or an open workshop space.

But How Much Does It Cost To Enclose A Carport In A Garage?

The national average of a garage conversion is about $20,000. This can widely vary with the location, size, and purpose of the garage. For example, creating an office space will cost less than creating a guest house with a furnished bedroom.

The average cost of one car carport to garage conversion would be around $10k, while converting a two car carport to a garage will cost about $20k. Note that this cost includes labor charges.

Step 2. Get Necessary Permits And Approval For Garage Conversion

Wondering if you will need permission to convert carport to a garage. In most cases, you will be able to convert by securing necessary permits. This is especially true if you want to convert your carport into a room for human occupants.

The cost of a permit to convert a carport into a garage can be between $500 and $3,000, depending on the project type. If you want to add utilities, mention them while submitting the permit.

Step 3. Choose Right Materials For Walls And Flooring

To convert a metal carport into a garage, you need to install side walls and end walls. But not all metals are equal. So, it is necessary to check the quality, durability, coating, gauge, and whether you will get any warranties. At Viking Steel Structures, we offer 12 and 14-gauge steel frames and 29 and 26-gauge panels that suit most residential needs.

Are you wondering how you can close off a carport in an affordable way? Well, the easiest thing will be to add side and end walls along with a door. Then, add accessories as per need.

Ensure Side Wall Has Frame For Windows & Doors

Before installing walls, ensure they have proper cut-outs for installing windows and doors. If you are planning for storage, we suggest adding a walk-in door [facing your home] for easy access. Usually, you will get wall panels with frame cut-out.

Step 4. Install Insulation And Ventilation For Climate Control

Insulation will help reduce heat transfer to and from indoors. It will also reduce the chances of condensation, moisture build-up, molding, or mildew. We offer affordable insulators like single bubble and double bubble with our metal garages and carports. We also provide woven R17 for superior thermal efficiency.

Vents will carry moist, warm air out and bring in fresh air. You can install ridge vents or gable vents when converting a carport to a garage. Another excellent source of ventilation and natural lighting is windows [when placed correctly].

Tip: Once you have installed side and end walls, weatherproof the entire structure around the edges to prevent drafts and leaks.

Step 5. Add Lighting And Electrical Outlets To Increase Functionality

Install any utility, such as electrical wiring, outlets [of varying power], sink, faucet, etc., that you will need frequently in your garage. If you own an electric vehicle, have a dedicated charging station for it.

Step 6. Secure Structure With Proper Doors And Locks

Opt for steel doors as they are robust and last long. We offer roll-up doors, door frames, and walk-in doors with our metal buildings. You can customize the size of doors and windows as well. Finally, add a security lock or reinforcement bars to the door. Some common ones are deadbolt locks, smart locks, heavy-duty padlocks, and garage door bolts.

Tip: Add fire alarms and sprinklers to enhance fire safety inside. To boost functionality, you can include IoT devices such as motion sensor lights, cameras, and automatic door openers.

Step 7. Give Finishing Touches

Drywall And Painting

Prepare the surface, measure, cut, and attach the drywall after insulation. Then, seal it with drywall tape over the seams between the sheets. Finally, sand for a smoother surface. Now, you can add either paint or wallpaper of your choice.

Tip: Always prime the wall before painting for proper adhesion of paint.

Organize Storage Solutions For Tools & Equipment

It is important to keep your newly renovated garage – a clutter-free space. You can add industrial shelving, floating racks, vertical shelves, hooks, and/or slatwall for this. These will hold tools and equipment in place.

Tip: Opt for furniture with a hidden storage compartment to keep some less frequently used items.

Landscaping And Curb Appeal Enhancement

You can plan to add greenery and garden/ outdoor light to enhance the aesthetics. Select drought-resistant plants that can thrive under minimal care and are non-invasive.

Alert! Nothing speaks more about a carport/ garage conversion than the presence of a driveway.

Tip: If you plan not to park your car in the garage and use it for other purposes, redesign the driveway by adding bushes, shrubs, or flowers. You can also use lined containers with tall plants [bamboo or arborvitae] to hide the end of the driveway.

Transform Your Carport With Viking Steel Structures

Overall, with some planning, proper permits, and elbow grease, converting a carport into a fully functional garage can be a rewarding DIY project that adds value to your home and brings convenience into your life. Don’t forget to add some personal touches to make it truly yours.

If you are looking for a metal carport or a fully enclosed steel garage and don’t want to spend time DIYing, call us at 877-801-3263. We have a dedicated team who can help you plan and design your dream carport/garage within your specified budget. We offer shipping and installation charges, which are included in our quote for your convenience! Call Today for the best deals!

Unbeatable Price For Your Dream Metal Building!

It is important to thoroughly research and consider all your options before deciding. Note that the upfront cost may be slightly higher than conventional construction, but a 30 x 60 commercial metal building is durable, low maintenance, and cost-effective in the long run. So, get your FREE quote from us at 877-801-3263. We have a variety of designs, styles, and custom features to suit your needs.

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