Cost to Build a Detached Garage

On February 25, 2026  By newsroom   Topic: Home Services

Adding a detached garage can increase your property’s value and provide functional space. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the costs:


1. Total Cost

  • Average Cost: $19,600
  • Typical Range: $9,600–$40,000
  • Low-End: $5,000
  • High-End: $75,000

2. Cost by Garage Size

| Garage Size | Square Feet | Cost Range |
|------------------|----------------|-------------------------|
| 1 Car | 240–384 | $9,600–$26,900 |
| 2 Cars | 360–480 | $14,400–$33,600 |
| 3 Cars | 700–860 | $28,000–$60,200 |
| 4 Cars | 800–1,080 | $32,000–$75,600 |


3. Key Cost Factors

Foundation

  • Concrete Slab: $4–$8 per sq. ft.
  • For a 2-car garage: $1,400–$3,800.

Roofing

  • Cost: $10,000–$20,000
  • Per Sq. Ft.: $4–$5
  • Materials range from aluminum (cheaper) to slate shingles (priciest).

Siding

  • Cost Per Sq. Ft.:
  • Stucco: $7–$9
  • Vinyl: $3–$12
  • Brick: $10–$20
  • Stone: $7–$30

Doors

  • Garage Door Cost: $750–$1,650
  • Glass Doors: 200–300% more expensive.

Windows

  • Cost Per Window: $200–$1,300
  • Vinyl frames are cheapest, while custom wood frames cost more.

Labor

  • Cost: $3,000–$15,000 or 60% of material costs.

4. Additional Features

| Feature | Cost |
|------------------|--------------------|
| Plumbing | $600–$1,600/fixture |
| Wiring | $1,000–$2,500 (up to $5,000 for complex jobs) |
| Insulation | $0.50–$1.25/sq. ft. |
| Interior Painting | $2.75/sq. ft. |
| Exterior Painting | $1.50–$4/sq. ft. |


5. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

  • DIY Cost: $5,000–$25,000
  • Savings: $3,000–$15,000.
  • Risks: Mistakes, safety issues, and code violations.

  • Hiring a Pro:

  • Cost: $8,000–$40,000.
  • Advantages: Faster, up to code, structurally sound.

6. Tips to Save Money

  • Opt for smaller square footage.
  • Build closer to existing plumbing/electricity.
  • Choose cost-effective materials (e.g., vinyl siding, steel doors).
  • Minimize windows.
  • DIY simpler tasks like painting.
  • Get multiple quotes from contractors.

7. Detached vs. Attached Garage

  • Detached Garages cost 10–15% more due to extra materials and labor.
  • If far from the main house, expect higher plumbing and electrical costs.

Investing in a detached garage enhances functionality and boosts property value, making it a worthwhile addition.


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