Garage Extension Cost
On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Home Services
1. Average Cost
- Cost per Square Foot: $40–$70.
- Total Project Cost by Extension Size:
| Project | Size | Cost Range | |----------------------|----------------|-----------------------| | Convert 1-car to 2-car | 8 x 20 ft | $6,400–$11,000 | | Convert 2-car to 3-car | 10 x 20 ft | $8,000–$14,000 | | Convert 1-car to 3-car | 22 x 22 ft | $19,360–$33,800 |
2. Cost Breakdown
a. Design and Permits
- Structural Engineer: $200–$1,500 (1%–20% of budget).
- Permits: $200–$1,500, depending on location and complexity.
b. Demolition (if needed)
- Wall Removal: $1,200–$3,000 for load-bearing walls.
- Factors: Plumbing/electrical inside walls can increase costs.
c. Foundation and Framing
- Foundation: $4–$25/sq. ft. (depends on soil and type).
- Framing: $4–$8/sq. ft. for new walls and beams.
d. Electrical and Plumbing
- Electrical: $50–$100/hour (for outlets, lighting, garage door motors).
- Plumbing: $45–$200/hour (if adding a sink, washer, or spigot).
e. Roofing and Garage Doors
- Roofing: $1,000–$3,000. Simple roofline extensions cost less.
- Garage Door: $750–$3,000 (based on size and style).
f. Exterior Finishing
- Siding Costs:
| Material | Cost (per sq. ft.) | |------------------|------------------------| | Stucco | $7–$9 | | Vinyl | $3–$12 | | Wood | $1–$15 | | Brick | $10–$20 | | Stone | $7–$30 | | Fiber Cement | $5–$14 |
g. Interior Finishing
- Drywall and Insulation (Optional): Costs depend on size and material choices.
- Painting: $1–$6/sq. ft. (interior and exterior).
3. DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
- DIY Savings: Labor accounts for 50%–70% of total costs, saving $20–$50/sq. ft. by DIYing.
- Example: Extending a 200 sq. ft. garage saves $4,000–$10,000 in labor if DIY.
- Considerations:
- DIY is suitable for tasks like painting or minor demolition.
- Complex tasks (framing, electrical, plumbing, roofing) require professional expertise for safety and structural integrity.
4. Money-Saving Tips
- Limit Expansion: Add only the essential extra space.
- DIY Where Possible: Painting or installing a garage door opener.
- Delay Interior Finishing: Postpone drywall or insulation if budget-constrained.
- Choose Affordable Materials: Opt for cost-effective siding and roofing.
- Plan Thoroughly: Avoid costly changes during construction by finalizing plans early.
5. Is a Garage Extension Worth It?
- ROI: Recoup 75%–85% of the investment upon resale.
- Best Uses: Storage, workspace, or accommodating more vehicles.
A garage extension enhances functionality and boosts home value—a practical upgrade for homeowners with growing needs!
