Garage conversion or small extension: which is better?
Garage conversions and small extensions are both popular ways to gain more space in a property.
If you’re looking to enhance your home with a small project, you may be torn between these two excellent options.
This article will guide you through the pros and cons of garage conversions and small extensions to help you decide which one is best for you.
Pros and cons of garage conversions
If you’re worried about the cost of a small extension, then going for the simpler option of a garage conversion may be a good choice for you. Since you can work with the existing structure, you can save on building materials and labour straight away.
In many instances, you won’t even need planning permission to carry out a garage conversion, which will also cut out the dreaded red tape.
It’s worth bearing in mind that you’ll also preserve your garden space with a garage conversion.
Garage conversions can be versatile too, offering extra space for a reception room, utility room or extra bedroom.
Depending on your internal structure and layout, you may be able to knock through an internal wall to really open up the extra space your garage conversion creates.
And remember that garage conversion projects are quick to complete compared to small extensions.
On the downside, garage conversions don’t always offer a huge amount of space. A small extension may be a better bet if you want to maximise your internal area.
You will also need to think about how to replace the lost parking or storage space once your garage is converted.
And if your garage has a flat roof, you may wish to consider swapping it for a pitched one. This is so you are less likely to have issues with water pooling above your living space. This can add extra cost to your project and may also require planning permission.
Pros and cons of small extensions
Small extensions offer more scope and versatility than garage conversions. You are more likely to end up with a bigger space that has more flexibility than the pre-determined structure of a garage.
You’ll also have the choice of where to position your small extension in relation to your property, giving you a few more design options than a garage conversion.
Small extensions may also boost the overall value of your property more than a garage conversion, although this will depend on the individual project.
On the downside, small extensions tend to cost more than garage conversions. So, if your small extension cost takes you out of budget, you may wish to consider a garage conversion as an alternative.
An extension may require planning permission and will be a longer project to execute too, so be sure to factor these considerations into your budget and timeline.
A small extension project is also likely to create more disruption to your home life, so you’ll need to be prepared for any extra noise and mess involved.
Need help deciding?
Both garage conversions and small extensions are cost-effective ways to enhance your space and add value to your property in the long run.
If you’re having trouble deciding which option is best for you, why not consult the professionals?
Humphreys & Sons offers a range of services to help guide and execute your project. We’re a family-run architects and chartered building surveying company, providing many services to help your project reach its potential.
From assessing your space to designing and overseeing your project, we can help you create an addition to your property that meets your requirements as well as your budget.
Get in touch with the team to find out how our expertise in planning and designing building projects in and around London and Essex could help transform your property.