How to Boost Storage With a Detached Garage

Detached garages are a great way to increase storage space and keep vehicles out of the elements. While separate garages can be expensive, their benefits will last a lifetime. They're a place to offload clutter from the home as well as keep outdoor toys and equipment secure and dry. 

Benefits of Detached Garages

Detached garages are stand-alone structures separate from the main house. They offer homeowners extra storage space and more design flexibility than attached garages.

Key benefits of detached garages include:

• Added storage for vehicles, equipment, and household items
• Durability to protect valuables
• Expanded design options with more footprint freedom
• Flexible placement on property
• Less hazardous fumes entering the home from cars and mowers
• Security against theft

Garage Types: Attached Vs. Detached

The attached garages share one or more walls with the home. They offer convenient access, but limited placement flexibility and expansions to the garage are more complicated. Fumes, exhaust, and noise from vehicles and equipment can also be problematic.

Detached garages are fully separate buildings. They can be sited anywhere on your property that zoning allows, which gives homeowners the freedom to create something more unique or useful. The area above a detached garage is a great place for a recreation room, a guest room, or even a room for an older teen.

Design and Material Options

Detached garages can match the home’s design or have their own unique style. Many homeowners opt for wood, vinyl, or metal siding with asphalt shingle, metal, or concrete tile roofing, but you can make it however you want.

You’ll need to consider how many parking spaces and what style and size of garage doors you want. There are also windows, shutters, side doors, and affordable roofing options for detached garages to consider. Detached garages are also a great space for landscaping, with options for flower beds, trees, and vines. Patios, too, are a great addition, especially for activities like fires that you want to keep away from the house. 

Ideal for Unconventional Lots

Detached garages are smart options for unusually shaped or sized lots. The separate structure allows flexibility to maximize space and layout. For example, a deep, narrow lot could benefit from a detached garage placed behind the house that avoids cramping along the front of the property. 

Security and Durability

Detached garages built with quality materials like concrete, wood framing, and metal roofing resist damage from weather, pests, and time. Sturdy garage doors with secure locking mechanisms help protect stored items. 

Separating vehicles also reduces things like fire risks or risks from fumes or sparks in the garage. It’s not fun to lose something to a fire, but better a garage than a house.  

Typical Costs to Build

On average, you can expect to pay $15,000 to $25,000 to build a new 24' x 24' detached garage. Costs vary based on:

• Garage size and foundation type
• Level of work required for aspects such as utilities, lighting, and insulation
• Materials used for roofing, siding, garage doors
• Permits and design fees

Value Added to Property

Detached garages boost resale value by offering extra enclosed space. They appeal to home shoppers looking for storage, workspace, and a different solution for vehicles than an attached garage or carport.

Securing building permits, hiring qualified contractors, and using high-end materials ensure the garage meets the code and endures over time, providing a decent return on investment.

Learn More About Garage Organization

So, Are Detached Garages Worthwhile?

For homeowners who aren’t inclined toward attached garages, I think detached garages are a solid investment. The freedom they allow is a huge benefit. They also offer optional future conversion of either the attic or the garage itself into a different space. 

They're also nice spaces for doing projects that can be dirty or loud, whether it’s working on a car or fixing a chainsaw. Adults and kids can utilize the space and be as loud as they want without worrying about disturbing people inside.