Your Guide to Building a Detached Garage in Altoona

A detached garage can be a wonderful addition to your home. You can use it as additional storage, a workshop, or a place to securely store your vehicles. However, prior to getting started with garage building in Altoona, there are a few things you should know. Here’s a breakdown for you to build with confidence.

Knowing the Zoning and Permits

Before you start with garage building in Altoona, first check with the city’s local zoning and building codes. City rules govern the size, height, and distance of garages from property lines.

You will also need a building permit. It will help you comply with safety and structural standards that your project should meet. The application process can be time-consuming, so give yourself plenty of lead time. If you’re hiring a contractor, they can usually take care of the paperwork on your behalf.

Tailoring the Size and Layout to Your Home

Consider how you will use your garage now and into the future. While a single-car garage may suffice for general storage, if you have multiple vehicles, motorcycles, outdoor gear, or hobbies that take up space, a larger design is worth consideration. You could add extra shelving, a loft for additional storage, or even a side entry door for convenience.

Choosing Materials for Strength and Longevity

Iowa experiences unpredictable weather, so your garage should be able to withstand extreme heat, cold, and storms. Wood is a traditional choice, while metal garages are increasing in popularity for their longevity and low upkeep.

Asphalt shingles are versatile roofs that work with most homes, while metal roofs are more durable. To ensure stability and longevity, a concrete foundation is most suitable. If you intend to utilize your garage all year long, consider insulating the walls to maintain a more comfortable temperature.

Custom Features to Consider

Your detached garage need not be only four walls and a roof. Add windows to let in natural light, a workshop area, or smart tech features such as automated doors and security cameras.

For a garage that will also be a workspace, heating options will come in handy as the temperature drops. Whether creating a workspace or a home with your garage, designing it with both function and style in mind will make it a much more useful space for years to come.

Budgeting for Your Project

The price of a detached garage also varies based on size, materials, and additional features. A basic single-car garage would tend to be on the cheaper end of the scale, while a custom-designed, multi-car garage with additional features would be at the higher end.

Be mindful of hidden costs, such as site preparation, utility connections, and permit fees. Another way to ensure you get a fair price while maintaining quality work is to get multiple quotes from different builders.

Hiring a Professional vs. DIY

Some homeowners attempt to build their garage to save money, but unless you have construction experience, it’s safer and smarter to hire a contractor.

A custom home builder in Altoona can ensure your garage is built according to regulations and designed to last. Professional builders work more efficiently too, so you’ll be able to use your new garage sooner without worrying about costly mistakes.

Make Your Ultimate Garage a Reality with Legacy Home Builders

Constructing a detached garage is a considerable undertaking, and it comes with lots of questions. We understand how important it is to select the right builder, which is why at Legacy Home Builders, we do all we can to help you.

We know the ins and outs of building a garage in Altoona, so let us handle the hard parts. We have the experience, expertise, and local knowledge.

Excited to make your garage dreams come true? Call us now at 515-201-8023 or legacyhomebuilders@outlook.com!

We’re Legacy Home Builders, and we’ve been a contractor here in Des Moines, IA since 2018. We offer remodeling, new construction, custom home building, and more. We’d like to personally invite you to call us to see how we can help make your dreams come to life, today!