Common mistakes when building a new garage, House car space and storage tips
5 Common Mistakes When Building a New Garage
25 March 2025
A garage is an invaluable addition to your home. Alongside providing a secure parking space for your vehicle, it can make your property more attractive to prospective buyers and boost its value. A garage addition can also help create storage space while preserving your home’s curb appeal. However, constructing a new garage comes with the possibility of mishaps that can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. Discussed below are five common mistakes when building a new garage.
1. DIY garage door installation
Although DIY projects can save you money, installing your garage door yourself isn’t advisable. Some of the reasons you shouldn’t try DIY garage door installation include the following:
- DIY garage door installations are complicated: Garage doors have many interconnected parts. If any part of the garage door system isn’t in sync, the door might not function as intended, and several parts may be damaged
- Costly mistakes: Installing your garage door yourself increases the possibility of errors that can compromise your home’s safety and even lead to expensive repairs and part replacement
- Voiding warranties: A new garage door often comes with a warranty, which requires professional installation to remain valid. DIY garage door installation can void your warranty, leading to more out-of-pocket expenses
Leaving your garage door installation to skilled professionals can help cut costs while providing the desired result.
2. Failure to understand your goals and needs
Understanding why you need a garage is important because it significantly influences your space’s design and features. Determine if your garage is primarily for protecting your vehicles against weather elements, creating a multi-functional space that can double as a storage area or workshop, and more. Understanding your needs and objectives helps direct the planning process, ensuring the final outcome matches your vision.
3. Wrong choice of materials
Choosing the right materials when building a new garage is key to guaranteeing its functionality and longevity. Your material choice will impact the garage’s aesthetic appeal, maintenance needs, and durability. For example, settling for premium-quality roofing or siding materials can offer better protection against weather elements while minimizing long-term repair expenses. Prioritize quality over affordability when selecting the best materials for building your new garage to ensure a sturdy structure, increased durability, and low maintenance costs.
4. Ignoring legal and regulatory compliance
Government permits are crucial when building a new garage because they ascertain that your garage plan aligns with building codes, local zoning laws, and safety regulations. Failure to comply with these regulations leads to legal problems and hefty fines. You may also be forced to modify or demolish your new building. When it comes to ensuring legal and regulatory compliance, partnering with professional garage builders with adequate industry experience and knowledge can help guarantee that your project is up to code.
5. Poor budgeting and cost management
A well-planned budget is vital for the success of your garage-building project. It lowers the likelihood of overspending and the risk of your project delaying due to a lack of finances. Get comprehensive quotes from garage builders and price out materials. Besides the obvious expenses such as labor and materials, your budget should include the not-so-apparent expenses like inspections, permits, and possible landscaping changes. Your budget should also contain a contingency fund for unexpected costs or project changes.
Endnote
Constructing a new garage comes with the possibility of errors that might jeopardize your project, wasting more time and money. Understanding the mistakes to avoid when building a new garage can help ensure a seamless process and a successful project.
Comments on this guide to 5 Common Mistakes When Building a New Garage article are welcome.
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Planet Smart City, Aquiraz, near Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
Design: Studio Kyze Arquitetura e Design
image courtesy of architects
Planet Smart City Aquiraz, Brasil
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