How Much Does a Carport to Garage Conversion Cost?

Converting a carport into a garage can significantly enhance the functionality and value of your home. However, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the costs involved before embarking on this project. This blog post will provide a detailed breakdown of the potential expenses associated with a carport to garage conversion, helping you make informed decisions.

According to recent estimates, the average cost to convert a carport into a garage in the United States ranges from $10,000 to $30,000. However, this can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned above. For example, a larger carport conversion in a high-cost area with premium materials and professional labor could cost closer to $50,000 or more.

At Sweeten, we’re experts at all things general contractors — we pre-screen them for our network, carefully select the best ones for your remodeling project, and work closely with hundreds of general contractors every day. So, we’ve tapped our internal expertise to bring you this guide.

It’s important to note that these are just estimates, and the actual cost of your project may be higher or lower. It’s recommended to obtain quotes from multiple contractors to get a more accurate estimate for your specific needs and location.

Factors affecting cost

The cost of converting a carport into a garage can vary significantly depending on several factors:

1. Size and Scope of the Project: The larger the carport and the more extensive the conversion, the higher the cost will be.
2. Location: Geographic location can influence costs due to differences in labor rates, building materials, and permit fees.
3. Existing Structure: The condition of the existing carport will affect the amount of work required and, consequently, the cost.
4. Materials: The choice of materials, such as framing, roofing, siding, and flooring, will impact the overall budget.
5. Permits and Fees: Obtaining necessary permits and paying associated fees can add to the total cost.
6. Labor Costs: Hiring professional contractors or completing the project yourself will influence labor costs.

Cost Breakdown

Here’s a general breakdown of the potential costs involved in a carport to garage conversion:

Demolition: Removing the existing carport structure may incur costs for labor and disposal. The average cost for demolition in the US is around $1,000 to $3,000, but this can vary depending on the size and complexity of the carport.

Foundation: The cost of building a foundation for a garage will depend on the size and type of foundation required. A simple foundation for a small, single-car garage can cost around $3,000. However, the cost can increase significantly for larger garages or garages with more complex foundations, such as those with basements or multiple levels. Factors that affect foundation costs include the type of soil, the depth of the frost line, and the local cost of labor.

Framing: The cost of framing the new garage will depend on the size and complexity of the structure. The minimum cost for framing a small, single-car garage can start around $2,500 to $4,000, but this can quickly increase for larger or more elaborate designs. Factors that affect framing costs include the type of wood used (e.g., treated lumber, engineered wood), the complexity of the design (e.g., vaulted ceilings, multiple bays), and the local cost of labor.

Roofing: The cost of roofing for a garage conversion can vary significantly depending on the size of the garage, the type of roofing material chosen, and the complexity of the roof design. Here’s a breakdown of potential roofing costs:

• Asphalt shingles: This is one of the most common and affordable roofing options. The average cost for asphalt shingles ranges from $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot.
• Metal roofing: Metal roofs are more durable and longer-lasting than asphalt shingles, but they are also more expensive. The average cost for metal roofing ranges from $2.00 to $6.00 per square foot.
• Tile roofing: Tile roofs are a popular choice for Mediterranean-style homes. They are durable and can add value to your home, but they are also the most expensive roofing option. The average cost for tile roofing ranges from $4.00 to $10.00 per square foot.
• Other roofing materials: Other roofing materials, such as wood shingles or slate, are also available but are generally more expensive than asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or tile roofing.

Siding: The type of siding you select (e.g., vinyl, wood) will affect the cost.

Doors and Windows: Garage doors, windows, and hardware can add to the overall budget.

Electrical and Plumbing: Installing electrical outlets, lighting, and plumbing systems will be necessary.

Insulation and Heating/Cooling: If you plan to use the garage as a heated or cooled space, insulation and HVAC systems will be required.

Interior Finishings: Costs for drywall, painting, flooring, and other interior finishes will vary depending on your preferences.

Permits and Fees: Obtaining necessary permits and paying associated fees can add to the total cost.

Additional considerations

• Hiring a Professional Contractor: While DIY projects can be rewarding, converting a carport into a garage involves complex tasks like structural changes, electrical wiring, and plumbing. Hiring a professional contractor ensures that the job is done correctly, safely, and up to code. Contractors have the expertise and experience to handle these tasks efficiently, minimizing potential risks and delays. Additionally, they can often negotiate better deals with suppliers for materials and permits, saving you money in the long run.
• Financing Options: Consider exploring financing options like home equity loans or personal loans to help cover the costs.
• Future Value: A well-executed carport to garage conversion can significantly increase the value of your home.

While the exact cost of a carport to garage conversion will depend on various factors, this breakdown provides a general overview of the potential expenses. By carefully considering your budget, desired features, and local market conditions, you can make informed decisions and plan for a successful project.

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