If you want to turn your garage into an apartment, you will find that it can add around an additional 400 square feet of living space. Of course, qualified garage conversions contractors will walk you through the process, but it is important to understand everything that it entails.
First step
The first step in the process is to apply at your town hall or county courthouse for the permits and plans you will need in order to complete this project legally. The permits need to be obtained in order to add plumbing and the necessary wiring to your garage to make it an apartment. You will also need an inspector to visit, whether you plan to live there yourself or rent it out to a tenant.
Once these tasks are completed, the next step is to assess the garage door. Garage conversions contractors will advise you to let them convert it into a wall for your apartment. However, another option is to have it converted to a bay window, but this is a bit more difficult.
Next step
Other steps in the conversion process include measuring the slope of the garage floor. The floor will have to be leveled before you can use the space as an apartment. In most cases, you will have to have concrete laid in order to do this.
Since a concrete floor can be unsightly, you may want to have the floor painted as part of the conversion process. Matte enamel paint is generally your best choice for this type of surface. Concrete can be slippery but the enamel paint will eliminate that problem. It also helps add color to your new apartment, which will help when it comes time to decorate it.
Final step
The few remaining steps in the process include extending the pipes as well as the wiring to the garage. You also need to ensure that the new apartment will be able to get cool air and heat as needed. If connecting it to the heating and air conditioning in your house is a problem, you can always purchase a window unit air conditioner and a space heater for the new apartment.
To find out more about garage conversions, speak to us at Levi Design Build today.
