Converting your garage-is it a wise choice?

For many people, their garage is seldom used to keep their car away from the elements but rather it is used as a storage facility for garden tools and equipment or to keep garden furniture in during the winter months. For some homeowners, the option to convert their garage into an additional room in their home is an attractive proposition and can add value to the property if done to a good standard and within the current building regulations.

The simplest way to utilise the space in a garage is to use it as a laundry room with washing machine and tumble dryer installed therefore freeing up space in the kitchen. As long as the garage has an electricity supply, which most garages will have, and the option to install a water supply and drainage then this should be straightforward to achieve. The option to fit an additional toilet in your property should be considered as this can be easily completed at the same time.

If you are wanting to convert the garage into a bedroom or study, then the insulation of the walls and ceiling will need to be upgraded and possibly some type of heating will need to be considered. The majority of work can be tackled by an experienced DIYer, but any electrical work should be carried out by a qualified electrician.