Jump to:
Whether you are planning a new business or thinking of writing a book, you need a distraction-free place to work on your brilliant ideas. The recent pandemic has shown the world the importance of having a dedicated workplace at home. Therefore, many people are inclined towards creating home offices.
Instead of spending money on a full-scale extension, you can modify your garage into a home office. A home office can save you from distractions and early morning traffic jams.
It may sound enticing, but do not just start drawing your plans.
It would help to consider a few things before creating an office in your garage.
Always Put Safety First
Let’s all admit it; garages are not the best-maintained parts of a home. Some garages are purposely built decrepit in case they have to be rebuilt. Over time, things like the soundness of your walls, roof, and foundations could have been affected.
Before a garage conversion, you must consider the strength of its structure. Garages are not designed with the thought process of a habitable room. If your garage has the same structure as your home, there is nothing to worry about.
However, it would be best if you took a suggestion from a surveyor regarding the health of your walls. A surveyor can also guide you regarding the essentials, such as insulation and lighting.
Understand Your Zoning Requirements
Once you have accessed the safety of your garage, you can start considering the construction process. But of course, you would not want to start the construction process later to be restricted by your zoning laws. It would be a huge bummer.
To save yourself from disappointment, research your local zoning laws before starting. Please remember that different states and cities have different zoning laws. Some areas also may require permits for increased water and energy loads.
Once you have ensured that your endeavor can easily be undertaken within the zoning requirements, you can start the construction process.
Focus on the Essentials
Heating, electricity, and plumbing needs have become essential to become any place habitable for humans. You must consider the essentials early to ensure that your home office is comfortable around the year.
This step can become easier with the help of a plumber. Instead of starting from the top, a professional plumber can help you extend these utilities from your home.
You must remember to have multiple electrical points all around your aspired office for convenience before the finalizing plastering is done. Most importantly, do not forget the ventilation points during the construction.
Rethink the Lighting
For the sake of emphasis, let us mention again; garages are not built to be habitable. This is why it lacks one of the essential needs – natural light.
Now that you are on the journey of turning a dark garage into a lively workspace, it’s time to think differently. Most garages do not have windows. However, a window is important for your office to make it look creative and welcoming for innovation.
It would be best to include windows and other light sources in your construction process.
Look for the Alternatives
So now that your garage is becoming an office, where will you park your car? Many homes have sufficient driveway space. However, if that is not the case with your home, you will have to consider parking in the street.
In addition, remember that you will also be losing garage storage privileges. So, there will be no more space for your toolboxes or lawnmowers.
Do not panic; you can create a separate shed for storage. Right now, focus on enjoying a dedicated workspace from the comfort of your home.
