Let’s face it: choosing the right size for your new garage can be a daunting task. You have many things to consider, like the size of the lot, the number of vehicles you own, and storage needs. Getting the perfect garage size needs a lot of work.
Selecting the right size is an essential decision that impacts not only the functionality of the space but also its overall utility and aesthetic appeal. A garage that meets your needs can enhance your home’s value, provide adequate storage, and make daily living easier.
The experts from Lion Garages explore the key considerations involved in choosing the right-sized garage, from understanding different needs to assessing budget constraints and space requirements.
1. Understanding Your Needs
The first step in choosing the right-sized garage is to understand your specific needs. Are you looking for a space primarily to park your car, or do you need room for additional items like storage, tools, or recreational equipment? The size of your garage should reflect these needs. For instance, if you have multiple vehicles or plan to store large items such as a boat or an RV, you will need a larger garage. On the other hand, if parking a single vehicle and having a small workshop are your priorities, a smaller garage might suffice.
A. Parking Requirements
If parking is your primary need, the first step is to carefully assess the size of the vehicles you plan to park in the garage. Standard vehicles, such as sedans or compact SUVs, usually require a garage with a depth of around 12 to 14 feet and a width of 18 to 20 feet. These dimensions are typically adequate to park a single car while still leaving enough room to open the vehicle doors and move around comfortably. However, it’s important to account for the space required to enter and exit the vehicle easily, which can sometimes mean opting for slightly larger dimensions, especially if the garage is used regularly.
If you own larger vehicles such as trucks, vans, or full-sized SUVs, you will need to adjust the garage size to accommodate their bulkier frames. In these cases, a garage with a minimum width of 22 feet and a depth of 24 feet is recommended to ensure that there is enough space for both parking and maneuvering. These additional dimensions provide ample room not only to park the vehicle but also to navigate around it, ensuring that you can open doors, load or unload items, and park without feeling cramped. For those who own multiple larger vehicles or want extra room for ease of movement, it’s worth considering an even larger garage, as this will ensure a more comfortable and efficient parking experience.
B. Storage Needs
In addition to parking, it is essential to think about the various items you might need to store in your garage. Many homeowners use their garage as a multi-functional space for storing everything from bicycles and lawnmowers to sports equipment, tools, and seasonal decorations. These items often require additional room, which can quickly eat into the space needed for parking your vehicles. As such, it’s important to plan for sufficient storage space when designing your garage. For example, if you regularly use gardening equipment, or if you need space for home improvement tools, you’ll need to ensure that there’s enough room to store these items safely and conveniently, without cluttering the garage and interfering with your ability to park your cars.
To maximize storage efficiency and organization in your garage, consider adding features like wall-mounted cabinets, shelving units, or overhead storage racks. These additions can free up valuable floor space while keeping everything within easy reach. By utilizing vertical space and creating designated areas for different types of items, you can maintain an organized and functional garage. Incorporating these storage solutions also allows for better accessibility, as you’ll be able to find and retrieve items without digging through piles or shifting things around. If you have limited floor space, using ceiling-mounted racks or hooks for items like bikes and ladders can help you maximize your garage’s capacity and maintain a clutter-free environment, all while ensuring that your vehicles still have enough room to park comfortably.
2. Assessing Space Requirements
Once you understand your needs, it’s time to assess the space requirements for your ideal garage size. Factors such as the number of vehicles, the type of vehicles, and whether you need additional space for storage or workshops play a significant role in determining the garage dimensions.
A. Number of Vehicles
The most common factor in determining the size of a garage is the number of vehicles you need to park. For a single vehicle, a standard size might be around 12 to 14 feet in width and 20 feet in depth. For two cars, a minimum size might be around 24 to 28 feet in width and 20 to 24 feet in depth. If you plan to accommodate multiple vehicles, you may need even larger dimensions.
B. Additional Space for Storage or Workshops
If you plan to use your garage as a workshop, you will need more space than just for parking vehicles. A typical workshop setup requires additional space for workbenches, tool storage, and space for projects. If you plan to use your garage for both parking and work, a minimum size of around 24 to 28 feet in width and 24 to 28 feet in depth is recommended.
3. Budget Considerations
Choosing the right-sized garage often involves balancing your needs with your budget. Larger garages can be more expensive to build due to increased material and labor costs. It’s essential to set a budget for your garage project and weigh it against your needs.
A. Cost of Building a Larger Garage
The cost of building a larger garage will vary based on factors such as the materials used, the complexity of the design, and whether you need additional features like insulation, electricity, or plumbing. Larger garages also require more foundation and roofing materials, which can drive up the costs. If you plan to add features such as automatic doors, additional storage, or climate control, these will also add to the overall cost.
B. Making Budget-Friendly Choices
To keep costs down while still meeting your needs, consider opting for a simpler design and using cost-effective materials for walls and floors. If you can do some of the construction work yourself, you may be able to save money on labor costs. Additionally, consider choosing a garage size that meets your parking and storage needs without overspending on extra space that you do not need.
4. Customizing Your Garage Size
Once you have an understanding of your needs, budget, and space requirements, you can customize your garage size to reflect your unique needs. Some homeowners may prioritize extra space for a home gym or recreational area, while others might focus on a larger workshop or additional storage space.
A. Designing for Maximum Storage
If storage is your priority, consider a garage that includes built-in shelving, cabinets, or overhead storage racks. By maximizing vertical space, you can store more items while maintaining a clear floor for parking vehicles.
B. Planning for Workspaces
If you plan to use your garage for a workshop, you will need extra space for workbenches, tool storage, and potentially even space for large equipment. Consider adding electrical outlets, adequate lighting, and possibly even insulation for a comfortable working environment, especially if you plan to work in your garage year-round.
C. Additional Features
Incorporate features that will make the garage more functional, such as garage doors with automatic openers, windows for natural light, or climate control features like insulation and heating. These features can make your garage not only a place to park vehicles but also a comfortable space for various activities.
5. Future Planning
When choosing the right-sized garage, consider the potential changes in your needs over time. If you plan to add more vehicles, equipment, or even a home-based business, you may need to plan for a larger garage. Additionally, think about future property values—larger garages can be an attractive feature for potential homebuyers, especially if they need extra storage or workspace.
A. Preparing for Potential Changes
Think about how your needs might change in the next few years. For example, if you plan to purchase a larger vehicle or anticipate adding equipment to your garage, you should consider planning for a slightly larger garage than your current needs require.
B. Enhancing Property Value
A larger garage can add value to your home, especially if it offers space for multiple vehicles or additional storage. Consider the impact of garage size on your home’s overall property value, particularly if you plan to sell your home in the future.
Conclusion
Getting your garage size just right involves balancing your needs with budget considerations and future plans. Know what you really need, assess space requirements, and customize your garage to reflect your priorities, so you can create a space that meets your parking, storage, and recreational needs. The right-sized garage can enhance your home’s functionality and value.
