Your home often needs more space—for vehicles, hobbies, or simply extra storage. A new garage provides that essential expansion, seamlessly integrating with your property and enhancing its overall value.
But how much does it cost to add a garage? How much are custom garage doors?
Understanding the financial aspects of such a project, especially when building in Utah, requires a clear breakdown of potential expenses. This guide unpacks the various costs involved and factors influencing your budget, helping you plan your next big home improvement with confidence.
Breaking Down the Cost to Add a Garage to a House
Adding a garage involves several phases, each affecting the total cost to add a garage to a home. Knowing these phases will help you budget more accurately and avoid surprises.
1. Planning, permits, and design
Before construction begins, you’ll need to cover initial costs that ensure your garage is safe and compliant with local Utah regulations.
Design plans
Basic plans from a draftsperson start around $800 to $2,500. Full architectural and engineering designs for complex builds can reach $10,000, but most standard residential garages stay on the lower end.
Permits
Building permits in Utah typically cost $500–$2,000, depending on size and location. Counties like Salt Lake use a valuation-based schedule, which can add plan review fees.
Site surveys
If needed, property surveys or soil assessments may cost $500–$1,200, helping prevent placement or drainage issues.
2. Construction costs
This constitutes the bulk of the physical build and often represents the largest portion of your budget. Material and labor prices fluctuate, so obtaining multiple quotes is always wise.
Foundation
Whether it’s a concrete slab or deeper footings, the foundation must support the entire structure. Soil conditions on your property significantly influence these costs. A concrete slab foundation in Utah runs about $7 to $11 per square foot, depending on soil and reinforcement needs. Heavier loads (like RV storage) may require deeper footings, which increase the price.
Framing
This involves erecting the walls and roof structure using lumber. Lumber costs fluctuate, and skilled labor for framing forms a substantial part of this phase. Erecting the walls and roof structure usually costs $4–$5 per square foot, though custom rooflines can add more.
Roofing
Your new garage roof needs to protect the structure and ideally match your existing home’s roofline and material. Costs vary depending on material, like asphalt shingles or metal. Asphalt shingles average $3 to $5 per square foot. Metal roofing—though more durable—can run $6 to $12 per square foot installed.
Siding and exterior finishes
The exterior of your garage integrates with your house. You might choose to match your existing siding (e.g., brick, stucco, vinyl, wood) or opt for a different aesthetic, each carrying its own material and installation costs. To match your home’s exterior, expect $3–$7 per square foot for vinyl, $7–$9 for stucco, and over $20 for brick veneer.
3. Interior systems and finishing
These elements bring your garage to life, making it functional and comfortable. Your choices here directly affect the final figure.
Electrical wiring
Basic electrical typically ranges from $1,200 to $3,000. Add-ons like subpanels or EV chargers increase the price.
The garage door(s)
This is a critical component, not just for function but also for curb appeal and security. That’s why many homeowners today elect to install custom garage doors. Consider how much money you have invested into adding a garage! Consider how much you are hoping to recoup when you sell your home. It’s significant!
Yes, options range from basic single doors to insulated double doors with advanced openers and custom materials. The type and number of garage doors you choose directly impacts the total cost. Each homeowner has to make the call on what type and price range is best for your project. We understand that, but we would like to make a case for custom garage doors. We have never installed a set of custom doors and had someone regret it. It is always the capstone of the garage.
How much can you expect to pay? A standard 1-car garage door costs around $800 to $1,900 installed, while insulated 2-car doors or custom options can exceed $2,500, especially with smart openers or custom doors.
Interior finishing
For drywall, insulation, and paint, budget $2–$6 per square foot. Fully finished or heated spaces can run $25–$50 per square foot depending on materials and features.
As you meticulously plan your garage addition, remember the critical role your custom garage door plays in both aesthetics and function. For expert custom garage door services that seamlessly integrate with your new build, Mountain State Garage Doors is your trusted local provider. We specialize in garage door installations in Salt Lake City, offering unparalleled expertise to complete your project with lasting quality and curb appeal.
How Much to Add a Garage: Key Factors in Utah
Beyond individual construction elements, several overarching factors significantly influence your final garage addition budget, particularly when building in Utah. These elements collectively determine the average cost to add a garage to a house.
Garage type and size
Whether you build an attached or detached garage greatly affects cost and complexity. Attached garages can be more cost-effective by sharing walls and utilities with your home, but they require careful structural integration.
Detached garages, on the other hand, need a separate foundation, full exterior, and extended utility lines—making them more flexible but generally more expensive.
Whether you plan for a single-car, double-car, triple, or custom-sized garage directly impacts nearly every cost component. A larger garage means higher costs for materials and labor across all phases—foundation, framing, roofing, and finishing. Adding another car bay can increase your total by $10,000 to $25,000, depending on features and finishes.
Material choices and customization
The materials and finishes you choose directly influence the cost and look of your garage.
- Materials: Upgrading from basic to premium options—like choosing brick veneer over vinyl siding or metal roofing over asphalt shingles—can significantly raise costs.
- Interior finish: A simple shell for parking is the most affordable. Adding drywall, insulation, paint, or flooring raises the price but improves comfort and usability.
- Custom features: Extras like skylights, windows, built-in storage, or added electrical circuits increase your budget, even in small increments.
Site-specific challenges in Utah
Your property’s terrain and location can impact construction time and cost.
Sloped lots, poor drainage, or sites needing tree removal or excavation often require more prep work and equipment. Weather is another factor—Utah’s conditions can affect scheduling, so building during mild seasons may help avoid delays and reduce stress on your budget.
Beyond the Blueprint
Adding a new garage to your home is a significant investment, involving many moving parts from initial plans to final finishes. Success hinges on detailed planning and a clear understanding of all potential costs.
This project, while substantial, ultimately enhances your home’s functionality, provides invaluable storage, and significantly boosts your property value.
When planning your garage addition, the choice and installation of your residential garage doors stand as a crucial element. For expert advice and seamless new garage door installation, trust a reputable custom garage door company that understands quality and lasting value.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Mountain State Garage Doors today!
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