Important Information About Garage Construction
If you are thinking of adding a garage to your home, there are some important factors about garage construction that you should know about. Unless you are a competent builder, be very wary about undertaking a DIY job.
You might think that erecting a prefabricated garage, or putting together a wooden garage that comes with all the pieces, is easy. But in order to do a good job you will need to know how lay a concrete floor and how to set trusses. If you know how to do these things, then you may be successful, but if you don’t, rather hire a professional contractor.
If you want to add a traditional type of garage to your home, the first requirement is to have a plan drawn up. You will then submit this to the local authority for approval. Once you have the permit, the site can be staked.
Next the ground will have to be excavated and leveled so that the concrete slab can be laid. You will need to make sure that anchors for plumbing and electrical points are placed in the correct position. Once the concrete is poured, there is no going back to rectify any mistakes.
The building of the walls can then commence. Again, the approved plans must be accurately followed. When the walls have been erected with sill plates in position, the roof trusses or rafters can be installed. They will be covered with either OSB sheets or plywood. When this is complete the final roofing can be put on.
When the roof is complete, the building will be ‘dried in’ ‘ this means that it can no longer be damaged by rain, wind or snow. At this stage, the windows and doors can be put in. Work on the plumbing and electricity can also commence. This must be done before the interior walls are painted.
When it comes to the finish of the exterior walls, there are a number of options. Popular finishes include drywall, OSB sheeting, or plywood. Whatever finish you decide on, take into account its durability. If you live in a harsh hot climate, or a cold, rainy climate, you should choose a finish that is appropriate.
Your new garage will add value to your home. Apart from protecting your car, you can use part of the garage as a laundry or a workshop. A garage is also an ideal place to store things like your garden equipment and other implements. Take all these factors into account before planning your new garage.
