How to Build a Bedroom in My Garage
An unused garage can provide space for an extra bedroom for a teenager or an elderly parent. A bedroom in a converted garage can offer a privacy, since it is usually located off a kitchen area, and it's also a good economic choice, since the garage already has a roof, walls and floor. If you have lawn space to build a carport, you can still protect your cars. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Yardstick
- Lumber
- Drywall
- Flooring material
- Light fixtures
- Electric wiring
- Insulation
- Paint
- Plastic drop cloths
- Saw horses
Instructions
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Check with local authorities about building permit requirements and restrictions. Once you're ready to move forward, remove the garage door and tracking overhead. Frame the ceiling and walls of the garage to enclose the new bedroom space. Include a closet area and storage spaces. Enclose the space where the garage door was. Leave space for an exterior door from the new bedroom, if desired.
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Insulate the bedroom space in the ceiling area and the walls. Run electrical wiring for new outlets and light fixtures. Install drywall on the ceiling and wall surfaces. Finish with joint compound and paint. Install wire shelving in the new closet area and put an overhead light in the closet.
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Finish the exterior of the house where the garage door was. Enclose the area with masonry or brick to blend with the rest of the house. Always consult with building experts on remodeling any exterior areas of your house. You don't want a remodeling job to devalue the appearance or compromise the curbside appeal of your home. Invest in making the garage door space from curbside view look as if no renovation has taken place.
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Install wooden flooring or tile on the floor area. Follow proper procedures for installing wood directly over concrete. If necessary, fix gaps or cracks in the concrete floor before laying wood, tile or carpet over that surface.
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Tips & Warnings
Build the bedroom ceiling higher than a traditional 8-foot ceiling. A garage is typically tall enough to allow for this. Insulate the ceiling with extra insulation to avoid losing heat. Install an additional electric heater for the bedroom, if needed.
Consult with a termite specialist before laying flooring over concrete. There are specific ways to treat this area to ensure termites will not become a problem over time.
