Can I Turn a Carport Into a Garage?

Kunal Singh
June 12, 2022
4:45 am

Can I Turn a Carport Into a Garage?

Yes, You Can!

Converting a carport into a garage can be a great way to add extra space to your home. Before starting the conversion project, it would be best to consider several things, so make sure you understand the process and the associated costs.

Wondering if it’s possible to turn a carport into a garage?

You’re not alone! Many people are interested in this topic, and for a good reason. Converting your carport into a garage can be a great way to add extra storage or living space to your home without breaking the bank.

But before you get too excited, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. In this post, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of converting your carport into a garage and tips on making the most out of your new space. So, whether you’re just starting to think about it or you’re already in the process of doing it, read on for all the info you need!

What is a Carport, and why would I want to convert it into a Garage?

A carport is an uncovered parking space, typically attached to the side of your home. They’re usually cheaper and easier to build than a full-fledged garage, so many homes have them. Carports can be attached to the side of a house, or they can be standalone structures. They are typically made of metal or wood and have a roof, but they can also be made with canvas or other materials.

However, carports offer very little protection for your vehicles from the elements. This? Were you combined with the fact that they’re often small and cramped? It can make them less than ideal for parking your car or storing your belongings.

Of course, there are some things you need to consider before starting any construction project.

Here are 3 Things to consider before converting your carport into a garage:

1. Cost

The cost of converting a carport into a garage will vary depending on several factors, such as the size and location of the carport, the materials you use, and whether or not you need to hire a professional. Also, consider the labor and material costs, the electrical service, and the carport structure you want.

On average, you can expect to spend between $5000 and $10000 on the garage project. This may seem like a lot of money, but it’s important to remember that this is an investment in your home rather than to cut costs. After a successful conversion, it will add value to your property, but it will also make your life easier, save money in the long run and give you a more comfortable place to park your car or store your belongings like your lawn equipment, and electrical boxes.

2. Permits

Another critical thing to consider before starting any construction project is whether or not you need a building permit. You will need a license to convert your carport into a garage in most cases. The best way to find out is to contact your local building department or city hall and ask about the specific requirements for your area.

Checking with Your Local Municipalities
Check Local Building Codes and HOA Regulations

It’s also worth mentioning that, even if you don’t need a permit, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional before starting any construction project. and check the property line. This is especially true if you’re not experienced in construction or if the project is complex. if there is a case the carport conversion project will be paused, please request a new building permit to continue the construction process.

3. Design

Design is one of the most important things to consider when converting a carport into a garage. This is because the design will determine how functional your new space will be and how much it will cost to build.

It would be best to consider a few things when designing your new garage.

First, you need to decide how much space you need. And what kind of garage do you want? Is it a garage attached or a detached garage? This will depend on how many vehicles you want to park in the garage or your vehicle shelter and whether or not you want to be able to store other things, like tools or sporting equipment. Always plan ahead.
Second, you need to think about the layout of the space. This includes where the doors will be located and how much wall space you need for shelves or cabinets. With the help of your concrete contractor, decide if the floor and garage walls will be a pour concrete or slab surface.
Finally, you need to decide what kind of carport roof you want or if you don’t want to change your existing roof. Also, consider the carport’s roofline carports are usually built with either a gable roof, an inverted V-shape, or a shed roof. The most common type of roof for a garage is a gabled roof, but there are other options, like a flat roof or a shed roof.

You’re ready to plan your new garage once you’ve considered all of these things. If you’re unsure where to start, a few resources can help, like books, magazines, and online tutorials.

Assuming you’ve considered all the above, you’re ready to plan your carport conversion!

The first step is to decide what kind of garage you want. Do you need a single-car garage, metal garage, attached garage, or will a two-car garage suffice? What about the ceiling height? How much wall framing space do you need for shelves or cabinets?

Once you’ve decided on the basics, it’s time to start thinking about the details. What kind of doors do you want? Where will they be located? What type of flooring do you want? How will you light the space?

These are just a few things to consider when planning your new garage. But don’t worry. With a little bit of planning and some help from a professional, you’ll be able to create the perfect space for your needs.

What are the pros and cons of converting a carport into a garage?

One of the main advantages of converting a carport into a garage is the increased security it can provide. A garage door can deter would-be thieves and vandals and protect your vehicle from inclement weather.
Another advantage is the increased value it can add to your home. A garage is typically seen as a more desirable feature than a carport, so if you plan to sell your home in the future, a garage may help boost its value.

There are a few disadvantages to consider, such as the cost.

Converting a carport into a garage can be pretty expensive, depending on the size of the space and the materials you use.
Another disadvantage is finding a suitable location for the new garage can be challenging. If your home doesn’t have enough space on the property, you may need to get creative with your design.

Despite the disadvantages, converting a carport into a garage can significantly add value and security to your home it can also give you a comfortable garage. With careful planning and help from a professional, you can create the perfect space for your needs.

Materials And Subcontractors

You will need various materials and subcontractors for your carport to garage conversion. To start with, this carport conversion project.

You will need a foundation.
You will also need a concrete slab, bricks, mortar, and cinder blocks
In addition, you will need electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians

Once you have gathered all of the necessary materials and subcontractors, you can begin transforming your carport into a garage.

The first step is to excavate the area for the foundation
Next, you will need to pour the concrete and build the brick walls
Finally, you will install the electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC system

Once all subcontractors have finished their work, you can install the garage door and enjoy your current carport structure. You can successfully turn a carport into a garage by following these steps. With careful planning and some professional help, you can create a safe and secure space for your vehicle.

Don’t forget to call your local building department to determine their requirements. Garage plans are available to give you an idea of the size and layout you can have. After the garage is built, you will have to get it inspected by the building department before using it. If everything is up to code, they will give you a certificate of occupancy.

How much does it cost to convert a carport into a garage?

According to Angi, a website connecting consumers with service providers, the average cost to convert a carport into a garage is between $8,000 and $10,000. However, the actual price of the project will vary depending on the size of the structure and the materials used. If you want to cut costs, you can rent tools as an option.

For example, your costs will be higher if you have a more oversized carport or want to use high-end materials. Additionally, you will save on labor costs if you choose to do the work yourself. However, it is essential to note that this complex project requires building permits and inspections in most cases. It is generally best to leave the work to a qualified contractor.

By considering all of these factors, you can better understand what it will cost to convert your carport into a garage. So, if you’re thinking about transforming your carport into a garage, get estimates from multiple contractors before making a decision. You can also contact your designer to decide what is a perfect garage design for you, if it is an enclosed carport, if it has an automatic garage door, or a standard garage door opening.

Does Converting a Carport to a Garage add value?

While the answer may vary depending on your location, converting a carport into a garage can add value to your home. A garage is typically seen as a more desirable feature than a carport, so if you plan to sell your home in the future, a garage may help boost its value.

There are a few things to keep in mind;

First, as mentioned above, the cost of converting a carport into a garage can be expensive.
If you are not planning on staying in your home for a long time, you may not see a return on your investment.
Additionally, if you live in an area where most homes do not have garages, your home may not be valued differently.

Ultimately, it is essential to speak with a real estate agent in your area to get a better idea of how converting a carport into a garage will impact the value of your home.

FAQs

Is it worth converting the existing carport to a garage?
The answer may vary depending on your location, but converting a carport into a garage can add value to your home.
Can a metal carport be converted into an enclosed garage?
Yes, a metal carport can be converted to a garage. However, the process will be more complex and costly than converting a wooden carport into a garage.
Is a carport cheaper than a garage?
In most cases, a carport is cheaper than a garage. However, the actual cost will depend on the size of the structure and the materials used.
How long does it take to convert a carport into a garage?
The length of time it takes to convert a carport into a garage will vary depending on the size of the structure and the project’s complexity. However, it will take several weeks to complete the work in most cases.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know everything you need about converting a carport into a garage, it’s time to get started! Just remember to take your time, plan carefully, and consult with a professional if you need to. With a little effort, you’ll be able to turn your carport into the garage of your dreams.