A garage must be constructed properly, or it will not be covered under your home's insurance policy.
Garages can serve as a dry and secure storage area for boxes of seasonal decorations or a vehicle. They can function as a workshop or even extra living space. Local building codes may specify certain design and material requirements, but most garages share some basic materials and tools that are crucial for construction. Does this Spark an idea?
Concrete
Garages require concrete slabs for the foundation because they are large structures that can't be supported by graded dirt alone. Detached garages require shallower slabs than attached versions, according to the Hometime website. Concrete footings are poured into the ground, and then the edge of this slab is surrounded with layers of mortared concrete blocks. The rest of the concrete foundation is poured into this structure, so the blocks must be stacked to the final height of the foundation. Rebar and mesh are used to reinforce the concrete and anchor it to the edge blocks. The apron, the concrete section that runs under the garage doors and connects with the driveway, can be poured at the same time or after the foundation is set.
Framing Materials
Framing creates the supports for the walls of your garage. Choosing the right framing material depends on how you will be using your garage. Basic treated-wood lumber will work in areas where building codes allow it. Engineered and laminated wood products may be required for areas that require extra strength, such as the frame to support a heavy garage door, according to the Engineered Wood Association. If you will use the garage as a workshop for welding, creating sparks with high-speed grinders or other fire-hazard activities, steel framing will be a safer choice. Masonry or concrete-block walls are the strongest and safest but will also cost the most and require more labor than other framing materials.
Roofing
Trusses are the first part of a garage roof to be installed. They are usually raised as soon as the walls are framed and ready to support the weight of these structures. Trusses are triangular roof supports that will be covered in boards known as roof sheathing, says Hometime. Covering your garage roof with sheathing isn't enough to keep it dry inside. Over the sheathing, roofing felt -- edged with flashing -- is attached to create a waterproof roof. Shingles of various materials are then nailed over the flashing. Use the same shingles that are used on your home to make the two structures match. Water that enters an attached garage can seep into the home, so installing a quality roof is important.
Garage Doors
All garages need some kind of entrance that can be closed securely. Large sheet metal garage doors, either mechanically operated or models that you must raise and lower by hand, are the most common choice. These garage doors allow you to drive vehicles into the structure for storage or quickly ventilate the area. Horizontal bracing and other safety features can be added to strengthen the garage door in windy climates, says the University of Hawaii, where high winds could cause them to collapse or rattle loose. A broken garage door is expensive to replace or repair and may damage your vehicle or items stored in the garage.
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