Building your own garage is not as daunting a challenge as it may look at first glance. With careful planning and preparation it is a very possible ‘Do it yourself’ project. You will have to spend both money and time but it is worth the investment. After reading the following information you will not necessarily be able to go out and start building, but you may have a better idea of what you are committing to. Garage installation is far from impossible.

To begin, you must have the necessary materials. You will need either to buy a garage building kit, or to buy the materials yourself. If you plan on purchasing your own tools and wood, be sure to keep a checklist of everything you need. If price is an issue, perhaps it would be better to go for a kit.

Once you have your materials you can begin construction. You will start with the foundation. Concrete will be layered over both a gravel bed and the natural earth. Steel rods will run through the concrete, lending further support to the structure. You can frame the cement with 2″ x 4″ pieces of redwood (other woods may work but not as efficiently). Be sure to have the area level.

The next thing to do is begin work on the wall. The walls themselves will be built separately then late attached to the house. It is easiest to construct the walls with no openings (doors, windows… Etc) first. The walls fit to the foundation at studs which will be about two feet apart. Be sure that the wall connects to the foundation smoothly, with no gaps or discrepancies.

To build the roof, you can either make the trusses yourself or order ready made ones. If you order ready made ones take care that the sizing is correct. Carefully measure the appropriate dimensions. The construction must be sturdy and even to prevent collapses.

Cover your roof with plywood or particle board planks. Fit them together in a way that leaves no gaps for water to leak through. Do not nail together until all the slats have been applied. Perhaps, for good measure, take an overview to make sure you are satisfied.

Assuming you want windows, edge them with caulk. This will prevent anything leaking in or out of the garage. Build a sill and frame, then leave the window outside ready for installation.

The siding of the garage will follow a similar method to that of the roof sheathing. Plywood planks will again be used and applied neatly together until they cover the whole area. Further work will be needed for those who have an overhang.

To finish the garage, add felt or a similar material to the roofing. Decorate how you want, and there you have it. Your own garage.

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Tags: Home Security