How to Build a 30X40 Garage

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Things You'll Need

  • Building permit

  • Measuring tools

  • Concrete mason

  • Cinder blocks

  • Gravel

  • Concrete for flooring

  • Metal grid

  • 2-by-12-inch framing boards

  • Exterior siding

  • Windows

  • Garage roll-up doors

  • Walk-out door

  • Pre-made roof trusses

  • Metal support posts

  • Exterior-grade plywood

  • Asphalt shingles or metal roofing

  • Guttering

  • Garage door opener

  • 2-by-6-inch pressure-treated boards

  • Electrician

  • Breaker box

  • Electrical outlets

  • Light fixtures

  • Plumber

  • Water pipes and drains

  • Small sink

  • Bathroom fixtures

  • Plywood

  • Drywall

  • Insulation

A large garage can accommodate two or more cars, plus work space.

A well-built garage can add market value to almost any home. A double-car garage with room for additional workbench space is highly desirable for most families. Design and construct the garage to look appropriate with a home's architecture, however. A garage that does not blend well can actually detract from curbside appearance of the house. The project can be accomplished in stages, so it can be built over several weekends if needed. Check with local building authorities for any codes and restrictions, and obtain a building permit before beginning work.

Advertisement

Step 1

Measure the 30-foot-by-40-foot exterior space to allow for the structure. Dig a foundational wall extending at least 2 feet into the soil. Hire a block mason to dig footings and build a cinder block perimeter wall, unless onsite workers have these skills. Fill the space with gravel and engage a concrete delivery truck to pour at least 12 inches of concrete for the flooring. Add a metal grid to the floor area before the concrete is poured to add overall strength. Allow the concrete adequate time to dry and cure.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

Step 2

Construct all walls of the garage, including the front facade wall, on top of the cinder-block foundation walls. Build garage walls with cinder blocks that will be covered by stucco or brick. Use 2-by-12-inch boards to construct framing if the garage will be covered with siding or vinyl. Leave room for windows and garage roll-up doors in the structure. Leave room in a side wall for a walk-out door as well.

Advertisement

Step 3

Order or build garage trusses that will be placed for roof support. Use an expert to guide the construction of the trusses, because they will span the entire width of the garage. Do include some center posts, made of masonry or metal, to hold up the trusses as well. Place support posts strategically, so cars can be driven into the garage with enough room to spare.

Advertisement

Step 4

Install exterior-grade plywood on the roofing areas and cover with asphalt shingles, tile, metal or any material matching your home's roof. Build in overhangs and install guttering to sheet water away from the garage. Install metal tracking for roll-up garage doors. Hang the garage doors and install a garage door opener.

Advertisement

Step 5

Frame the door opening for the walk-out door with 2-by-6-inch pressure-treated lumber boards. Purchase a steel door for added security. Hire an electrician to place a breaker box and electrical outlets in the garage area. Install lighting for a workbench area and overhead fixtures if you want it. Engage a plumber to run water pipes for a small sink or small bathroom, if you include one, in a corner of the garage.

Tip

Enclose the ceiling over a workbench area or bathroom area with plywood or drywall. Install heavy insulation so these spaces can be heated in some manner. Never put water lines into the garage unless that area is constantly heated in the winter with heavily insulated walls and ceiling or you live in a warm climate that doesn't freeze. Pipes can easily break in an unheated garage in freezing weather.

Warning

Never build a garage without a walk-out door in case of fire. Even if your garage connects to a home entrance in some fashion, include a walk-out door on the opposite side of the structure.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

references & resources