Need More Space in Your Two-Car Garage? Consider Expanding Its Footprint

Maximize your two-car garage with expansion ideas that create extra storage and workspace, enhancing functionality without sacrificing style.

Is your two-garage packed floor to ceiling? Do you have enough space to park your vehicle inside the garage? When you start answering no, it’s probably time to think about an expansion. Sure, you can always tear the old garage down and start from scratch. 

However, just be ready to pay the hefty price tag. A more affordable option is building an addition to your existing garage. This means following a few essential steps for expanding a two-car garage. If you’re ready to turn it into a DIY project, here’s what you should know.

What is a Garage Extension?

An extension or bump-out is exactly what you’re probably envisioning. You’re simply adding to your garage’s square footage. The size of the bump-out depends on your storage needs. You can add a few feet or enough space to hold a third vehicle.

You’re really only limited by the amount of space you need to add and the room on your property. For example, you may need space to hold a third vehicle but you don’t have the necessary acreage on your property. When this road bump pops up, you’re probably going to need to rethink your original design.

A common question is if you can turn a garage extension into a DIY project. If you have some skill with more advanced DIY projects, by all means, tackle the extension on your own. If your DIY experience is limited to crafting shelving units, it’s probably best to call in professionals. You’re definitely going to need professionals if your garage extension involves anything to do with plumbing or electrical. Not only does this help ensure your safety, but it may also be the law.

Steps for Expanding a Two-Car Garage

Okay, you have your design plans and everything checks out. You’re not going to expand the garage over your property or easement line. You’ve warned your neighbors about any possible disruptions. Expanding a garage can be noisy so it’s nice if you give your neighbors a heads-up. With your design plan in hand, start getting your tools together.

Essential Tools

• Hammer drill: A powerful hammer made for hard-faced surfaces. You’ll need this tool to create a sturdy foundation for your garage bump-out.

• Concrete anchors: These are large, thick screws that secure wooden beams to concrete.

• Tie plates: Silver plates are needed to support your bump-out.

• Reciprocating saw: A machine-powered saw that cuts wooden beams to size.

• Level: Used to keep your walls straight and even.

• Ladder: Needed to install roof shingles, gutters, and possibly high storage shelves.

Oh, and don’t forget about your safety gear. Regardless of how skilled you think you are, safety should always be a priority. A pair of safety goggles will protect your eyes from flying dust and debris. You should also plan on picking up a pair of safety gloves if you don’t have any in your workspace or toolbox.

You Need Building Materials

Obviously, you can’t turn your design plans into reality without the necessary materials. So, what are you going to need to expand your two-car garage? The list can seem a little overwhelming but everything should be available at your local home improvement store; you’re going to need:

• Wooden beams: Required to build the outline and walls of your extension.

• Wall studs: Wooden, vertical framing that will help you outline the addition.

• Double trimmers: Metal beams that support the walls and header of your bump-out.

• Plywood: Needed to make the roof and foundation of your extension.

• Wood preservation treatment: To ensure your outline endures the test of time (and termites).

• Concrete: Required to make the floor and foundation of your garage bump-out addition.

• Roofing felt: A thin underlayment that protects your roof from excess moisture.

Don’t forget about vinyl siding, especially if it’s on the other portion of the garage. You probably want the bump-out to blend in with the existing structure and this usually means picking up some vinyl siding. Don’t freak out if you can’t find siding in the exact same color as your existing garage. A can of exterior paint can take care of this minor issue. This may also be the time to think about repainting your entire garage.

Create a Header

A header is essential if you don’t want the garage roof falling down. The header provides support when you remove a wall to add the extension. If you have a two-story garage, it’s probably best to let a general contractor take care of the header.

Take Out an Existing Garage Wall

Don’t take out just any wall. Yep, this definitely makes a difference. The only wall you want to remove is the one separating the garage from the extension. Before you start the demo, talk to a general contractor. You want to make sure it’s not a load-supporting wall. If it is, you’re going to need to make some adjustments to your design. You can’t safely remove a structure’s support wall, even temporarily.

Build a Base and the Walls

The base is the foundation for the extension. You also want to tackle the base before you even think about starting on the walls. After marking the spot, you’ll drill holes and pour the concrete in. Let the concrete set, usually around 24 hours, before inserting the support posts. Frame the floor and fill in any gaps. You don’t want gaps in the concrete between the existing garage floor and the bump-out. Attach the header and get started on the walls.

Add a Roof and Siding

Once the walls are secured to the floor, it’s time to attach the roof. This is also when you attach the rafters. Do this before starting on the roof. Once the roof is secure, move on to the siding. This is usually the easy part. After you get the siding up, it’s time to admire your finished project.

Taking the Hard Work Out of a Garage Extension

You can probably tackle a two-car garage expansion on your own, but it’s a commitment. Once you get started, you really can’t stop until the project is finished. Sometimes, it’s easier to call in the professionals, even when you’re positive it could be a DIY job.

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