Garage Conversion San Diego

Are There Any Disadvantages To A Garage Conversion?

The first consideration is where to put the car and any other objects that might be kept in the garage, presuming that it is still in use. If there is enough space on the property, a second garage might be built; if not, a small shed could be built to house any unused items from the garage. In the case of the car(s), a carport might be built, which is essentially a straightforward canopy that covers a portion of the driveway. It’s an easy, economical option that can be put up quickly and safely while shielding the car from most weather conditions. 

Additionally, converting a garage could drastically alter how people move around the house. It could take some getting accustomed to entering the garage through the kitchen or any other area that is connected to the garage if the garage is being converted into a living space. Even if extra living space increases the value of a home, some homeowners may feel that the absence of a garage reduces the home’s appeal, especially if there is nowhere else to store cars. If homeowner plans to sell their house in the future, they should think about this. 

WHERE TO START WITH A GARAGE CONVERSION IN SAN DIEGO

Permits And Red Tape — Senate Bill 1069 eases the requirements for garage conversion; however, permits are still needed to start the project. In addition, the neighborhood homeowner’s association might have its own set of guidelines that must be followed while making changes to the house. 

Budget — You’ll need to set aside money for it, just like you would for any other home repair project. The garage can be converted into a living space, a home office, a home gym, or a hangout space—like a man cave—each with its own set of architectural and financial considerations. As with any home renovation project, 10% to 20% of the entire budget should be set aside as an emergency fund in case the homeowner runs into any unforeseen circumstances.

Window Positioning – Garages are frequently dark areas, so while additional lighting will be needed, windows should be positioned to let in natural light as well. The location of these windows is one of the challenges with garage conversion because they can also need to be used for ventilation. 

Insulation – Regardless of how the newly converted garage will be used, insulation is necessary. Otherwise, it will become unpleasant to be there for any length of time. Building codes must almost likely be followed, especially with regard to the R-value, which gauges how well insulation can withstand heat loss. The walls, roof, and floor of the room, as well as other enclosing components, must all be insulated. 

Floors – If the homeowner is doing the job themselves, tile is a great alternative to wood flooring. Wood flooring is more labor-intensive and may need professional installation. Prior to the flooring being laid, the concrete slab of the garage floor should be coated to stop moisture from penetrating through minute cracks on its surface. 

Walls – The quality of the inner walls’ insulation depends on the kind of material used on the outer walls. The most common type of insulation used is fiberglass. However, spray-foam insulation can also be used. 

Ceiling – The process for ceiling insulation is the same as that for wall insulation. Nevertheless, it is crucial to look for any little cracks that can let moisture into the area. 

Plumbing & Electricity – If the new room is utilized with regular appliances and electronic equipment, new outlets will need to be added or moved. If the garage is to be used as a residence, plumbing connections must be constructed. As additional plumbing and electricity are added, the cost of the conversion increases, but the room and the home appreciate in value. 

CONSIDER A GARAGE CONVERSION FOR YOUR SAN DIEGO HOME

The greatest moment to take advantage of the chance is right now, especially if the garage is converted into a living space, as getting a permit for conversion is now simpler than ever. A garage is one of the best ways to boost a home’s value without taking up any additional space because it is the simplest of all the numerous types of ADUs. 

If you’re interested in converting your garage into an additional room, please get in touch with That Guy Maintenance of San Diego. We’ll help you take advantage of the chance offered by the California government to those who are prepared and eager to increase their living space.