Many people think of garages simply as a place to store their cars, outdoor items, yard tools, and other personal belongings. But once a garage is finished, it opens the door to a world of possibilities. Many consider a finished garage a massive home improvement because of the value it adds to your home. Continue reading for finished garage ideas, a how-to tutorial for your garage remodel, and inspiring transformations!
What makes a garage “finished?”
A garage is considered finished if it’s drywalled, has epoxy-like flooring, has central heating and cooling, and has no open or exposed beams. Finished garages are also typically painted. Some consider a garage finished when it includes livable space such as a bedroom, living space, or bathroom and looks similar to the rest of the home. Both an attached garage and a detached garage can be finished.
On the other hand, an unfinished garage feels separate from the home. It typically has unfinished walls, floors, and ceilings and feels more like storage for vehicles and personal items.
Considerations for finishing a garage
Finishing a garage can be a hefty undertaking, but it can transform it into the perfect space for you, your family, and your friends. Follow our step-by-step garage makeover instructions below.
Step-by-step tutorial: how to finish a garage
- Planning and preparation
- Assess your needs: Determine how you want to use the additional space and list the necessary features. For instance, if you’re hoping to use your garage as a living space, consider insulation, electrical outlets, lighting, and central heating and cooling options.
- Check your local codes and permits and obtain any necessary permits before making changes.
- Sketch out your layout. Include garage wall placement, electrical wiring, plumbing, and any other features identified in step 1.
- Purchase all materials (drywall, insulation, paint, garage flooring, etc.) and tools (saws, drills, hammers, etc.) you will need. Home Depot, Lowe’s, or your neighborhood home improvement store are great places to find supplies.
- Clearing and cleaning
- Clear out your garage and dispose of unwanted items, or donate them to your local GoodWill.
- Clean your space out to remove dust and debris likely collected over the years. We recommend hiring a professional cleaning company to ensure it’s properly cleaned before you start finishing.
- Structural work
- Install insulation in the walls and ceiling to help with temperature control.
- Hang drywall sheets on the walls and garage ceiling. Use drywall tape and compound to seal the seams.
- If you’re adding or replacing windows and doors, install them now.
- Electrical and plumbing work
- Plan and install electrical outlets, lighting, and any necessary wiring for appliances or tools.
- If your garage will have a sink or other plumbing features, install the necessary pipes and fixtures.
- Finishing touches
- Paint the walls and ceiling with your chosen color.
- Choose durable flooring for your intended use (e.g., epoxy floor, tiles, or rubber mats). Install the flooring according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If necessary, add shelves, cabinets, and workbenches to organize your garage space.
- To make the space more functional and inviting, add personal touches like wall art, pegboards, or tool racks.
Garage makeover ideas and inspiration
Ready to get started? Below are some garage transformations to inspire you!
This garage space has been completely transformed into a workshop. The garage floor and walls have been finished to create a more inviting and livable space. The pegboards and cabinetry make for great additional storage as well. Garage remodels like this one make for fantastic DIY projects.
Like the first example, this entire garage has been refinished with new floors, walls, and ceilings. Built-in cabinetry provides added storage space, and there’s even enough space for entertainment with a ping-pong table.
This converted garage has been finished as a mudroom to keep dirt and debris out of the home. All floors and walls have been finished. The built-in closet provides the perfect area to put on shoes and coats and keeps clutter out of your home.
Ways to use your finished garage
Once finished, you can use your garage for many things. Some of our favorites include:
- Elevated storage space for your cars and personal belongings
- Workshop
- Music room or space for band practice
- Mudroom or laundry room
- Your small business
- Craft room
- Home gym
- Living room or bedroom
- Mother-in-law suite
- Entertainment space
Build a garage with Supreme Buildings
Are you interested in exploring finished garage ideas for your home? Supreme Buildings is a leading provider of garages and carports in Greater Columbus. The team will work with you to create the detached garage of your dreams and can help add additional touches like garage storage and cabinetry options. Check out Supreme Buildings’ garage options!
