By Lizzie Weakley
Taking good care of your car can save in cosmetic and mechanical upkeep. A big part of that is storing your vehicle under a covering whenever possible. If you're thinking about building a garage for your vehicle, follow these five steps to make sure it's what you need it to be.
Choose the Right Site
The main point in building a garage is to protect your car and create convenience for your family, so don't build in the wrong place! Choose a location that's easy to reach from the house. Build it in a well-lit area and make sure that rain drains away from it.
Build It Big Enough
It is so easy to save a few bucks by going with a size smaller, but this can really hurt you in the long run. If you can barely squeeze out the door of your car when it's in the garage, then the garage is too small. Make sure you can lift the hatch all the way and that all the doors can be completely opened. Additionally, make sure you can walk around the car comfortably without having to squeeze past it.
Think of the Future
Most people think that a garage has four walls, a roof, a door and a couple of light fixtures, but even if that's how you use it today, you'll probably make changes in the future. Provide adequate electrical service for future possibilities like a car charging connection. Think about at least roughing in plumbing for a shop sink and maybe even a commode. This is especially useful if you choose to build a two door garage.
Use Quality Components
Your garage will get a lot of use if you build it right. Make sure that you don't skimp on the inputs. Resist the temptation to go with a thinner concrete floor or fewer light fixtures. Count on a quality company like JTM Garage Door Service LLC to install the overhead doors so that they'll last for the thousands of up/down cycles you'll have them make.
Stay Compliant
Homeowners' associations and municipal building codes may have very specific requirements for your garage. Make sure that you don't end up costing yourself in fines or expensive changes by not knowing what's required before you start. You may be required to set the garage a certain distance from the street, use certain materials or otherwise comply with various regulations.
Investing in a garage is investing in your vehicle and your family's comfort. If you build it right, you'll do those things well for years to come!
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball. Looking to work with a brokerage in Michigan? Weakley recommends contacting The Stockton Team.
