There are several reasons to install a garage. Maybe you need more storage space. Perhaps it’s to protect your car from the weather. Or, it could be that you want space for a workshop.
None of those reasons would be surprising, based on the fact that about 25% of homeowners use their garage for storage beyond vehicle parking.
The question is how to get that extra space without messing up the rest of your house. After all, garage construction impacts your home’s foundation, roofline, electrical system, drainage, and even its property value. That’s why you need to choose a contractor who understands the technical requirements of garage construction.
A properly constructed garage will blend seamlessly with your home, pass inspections, and last for decades.
Let’s look at how to choose a garage construction contractor, also known as a general contractor who specializes in garages.
A garage building contractor does more than simply frame walls. Their work generally consists of:
Identifying the various trades can help eliminate confusion while working on your project.
If you are building a detached garage from scratch, a professional garage contractor will manage most of the process and hire other professionals when necessary.
Not all contractors construct garages using the same practices, and that’s why you need to know what to look for in a garage construction contractor. When evaluating contractors for your project, focus on their commitment to safety and compliance, as well as the structure’s durability.
In most jurisdictions, garage construction constitutes structural work and therefore requires a contractor to hold a valid license.
Ensure they have an active contractor license number that authorizes them to perform residential or structural construction. Also, make sure their license is valid in your area.
Your contractor should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage to protect you in case of property damage or injuries on-site.
Always verify proof of insurance; don’t take their word for it.
Garage construction differs from interior renovation, and your contractor must have relevant experience with structural projects to perform the work.
For example, detached garages require specific slab thickness and frost protection.
Attached garages need a connection to the existing structure that does not create undue stress on it.
Ask how many garages your contractor has built recently. Ask for pictures too. You can also ask for referrals from similar garage construction projects.
Manufacturers often offer specialized training on working with their garage doors and roofing systems.
While certifications may not be mandatory in every state, they demonstrate the contractor’s knowledge of current construction techniques and materials.
Read reviews that describe how the contractor communicates, handles inspections, and manages timelines to understand if they are one of the best garage construction contractors out there.
Also, ensure they have a strong reputation in your community and are familiar with local building codes and weather conditions.
If you’re researching how to hire a garage construction contractor, having a clear checklist can simplify the decision-making process.
Asking direct questions eliminates potential misunderstandings down the road. Here are some questions to ask garage construction contractors:
Garage construction costs vary based on several factors, including:
Before you compare bids, it helps to have a rough sense of current market pricing. In many areas, professional garage builds commonly fall in the $30 to $120 per square foot range, with basic attached builds usually on the lower end and detached or highly finished builds on the higher end.
Here are ballpark ranges for common garage sizes to help you sanity-check estimates for a basic build without major upgrades like plumbing, HVAC, or high-end exterior finishes:
| Garage Size / Type | Approximate Footprint | Ballpark Cost Range |
| One-car | 12 by 20 feet | $7,000–$29,000 |
| Two-car | 20 by 20 feet to 24 by 24 feet | $12,000–$58,000 |
| 24-by-24 attached two-car | 24 by 24 feet | $23,000–$45,000 |
| 24-by-24 detached two-car | 24 by 24 feet | $29,000–$58,000 |
| Three-car | Varies | $28,000–$80,000+ |
Comparing two to three written bids can give you a good idea of what is normal for your location. If one is significantly lower than the others, ask what is missing from it.
A detailed estimate should clearly list:
If there is anything you don’t understand, get clarification before signing any paperwork.
Garage construction must comply with local building codes, which are usually based on the International Residential Code and International Building Code developed by the International Code Council. Typical requirements include:
It is typically the responsibility of a licensed contractor to handle permit requirements and schedule inspection appointments.
Failure to obtain the necessary permits can create serious issues during resale or when filing an insurance claim.
Homeowners, even those with prior experience, often make mistakes in their selection process. Here are some of the common ones they make when learning how to choose a contractor for home renovation projects:
If you’re planning a new garage construction project, Renovate can help you get started.
Why use Renovate?
The time it takes to build a garage can vary widely. Under ideal circumstances, a detached garage with a pre-engineered plan can take three to eight weeks from start to finish. That depends on the garage size, whether it is attached or detached from the house, the soil and lot conditions, the weather, material availability, and how quickly permits are approved.
In most areas, homeowners must obtain a permit from their local city or county. This is because building a garage requires structural framing, a foundation, and electrical connections.
Building codes and permits make sure the new garage complies with safety and construction requirements.
Costs associated with building a garage depend on several factors, including square footage, materials, labor rates in your area, and design complexity. Any additional features, such as insulation, finished walls, storage lofts, or plumbing, will increase the overall price.
Make sure you review the written estimate carefully before construction begins.
This depends on several factors, including your home’s current layout, your budget, and long-term plans.
Attached garages provide immediate access to the home, which is beneficial in cold climates. In contrast, detached garages offer greater flexibility in location and may reduce the challenges of attaching them to the home’s main structure.
