Ever wondered about the garage extension cost in Ireland? If you've contemplated expanding your garage for additional space, you're not alone! It's an investment that could potentially transform your lifestyle while increasing the value of your property. In this detailed blog post, we'll explain everything you need about the costs of garage extensions in Ireland. Our comprehensive guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions, from the types of extensions to the influencing factors. So, read on to understand better and plan your garage extension confidently!
What Exactly is a Garage Extension?
A garage extension is an additional structure built onto an existing garage or attached to your house. The garage extension can serve multiple purposes:
- Extra storage space for your car, tools, bicycles, and other items
- A designated workshop or hobby room
- A dedicated home office or gym
- An extra bedroom or living space
- Enhancing the curb appeal and value of your property
The extension can be either single-storey or double-storey, depending on your requirements and preferences. It can also be constructed on the side or at the back of your house.
Benefits of Garage Extensions
Garage extensions offer many benefits, particularly for homeowners seeking to enhance their space, function, or aesthetics. Here are some key benefits:
- Additional parking space: For households with multiple vehicles or plans to buy a new one, a garage extension can provide the much-needed extra space to safeguard your vehicles from weather damage and potential theft.
- Increased storage space: Garage extensions can significantly help declutter your home by providing an organised space for rarely used items.
- Additional living space: If you're considering an extra bedroom, a dedicated workspace, a fitness area, or a hobby room, a garage extension can create additional living space according to your needs.
- Increased property value: According to HomeLight, extending your garage to accommodate an additional vehicle can increase your property's value by an average of 13%, thus making it a wise investment for future property sales.
- Enhanced curb appeal: Garage extensions can refresh and modernise your home's external appearance, adding a unique personal style element.
Classifying Garage Extensions
Depending on your specific requirements, budget constraints, and available space, you can choose from three primary types of garage extensions:
Lengthening
Lengthening your garage involves extending it towards your property's front or back. This extension can provide more workspace or storage space in your garage or even transform it into another living space.
Widening
A widening extension adds width to your garage by extending it towards one or both sides of your property. This is ideal if you want more parking space for cars or bigger vehicles.
Heightening
Adding height to your garage by raising its roof or building an addition on top of it falls under heightening. This is ideal if you want more storage space for tall items or if you want to add another room above your garage.
Average Garage Extension Cost in Ireland
The average garage extension cost in Ireland can range anywhere between €12,000 to €48,000. The table below outlines some average costs based on extension type and size:
Type of ExtensionSize (in metres)Average Cost (in €)Lengthening2.4 x 614,400Widening3 x 618,000Heightening6 x 636,000
Factors Influencing Garage Extension Cost
Several factors can impact the garage extension cost, increasing or decreasing it based on your choices and circumstances:
- Design: A simple design matching the existing structure will cost less than a complex design necessitating significant changes or additions.
- Materials: Materials' quality, durability, and price will directly impact the cost. For instance, brick and metal are costlier than wood, but they are more durable and have a better finish.
- Labour: The labour cost depends on the required work volume, project duration, and the workers' skills and experience.
- Location: The cost can be influenced by the ease of access to your property, the charges local contractors levy for their services, and local authorities fees for permits and inspections.
- Features: Adding features like insulation, heating, ventilation, electricity, plumbing, windows, doors, flooring, lighting, or cabinets will increase the cost but also enhance the functionality and comfort of your garage.
- Finish Levels: The final look of the garage extension, based on the detail, quality, and style, will impact the cost.
The Roadmap to Your Garage Extension
Executing a garage extension project involves careful planning and organisation:
- Define your goals: Understand what you want from your garage extension project – the type, size, features, aesthetic, and budget.
- Research: Investigate the average cost in your location, identify local contractors, understand legal requirements, and get inspired by design ideas.
- Plan your budget: Based on your research, plan a realistic budget considering all potential costs involved.
- Design your extension: Outline a design yourself or hire a professional designer.
- Hire a contractor: Look for a reliable and experienced contractor, checking their license, insurance, references, and background.
- Obtain necessary permissions: Secure all necessary planning permissions and abide by all relevant building regulations.
- Monitor the project: Regularly check on the progress of the work, ensuring all is going as per plan.
How to Optimise Your Garage Extension Cost?
There are ways to manage your garage extension cost-effectively. Here are some tips to maximise your budget:
- Plan Ahead: Having a clear vision of what you want from your extension will help prevent costly oversights and delays. Research different contractors, compare quotes, and check references before hiring.
- Choose Wisely: Choose a design that suits your needs and budget. Opt for materials that are durable, energy-efficient, and easy to maintain.
- DIY Where Possible: If you're handy and have the time, consider taking on some tasks yourself, such as painting, tiling, or landscaping. However, always leave the professionals with complex tasks like wiring, plumbing, or roofing.
- Hire BuildPro: Hiring a consultation company like BuildPro can save you money in the long run. Our experience and network of contacts mean we can provide valuable insights, ensuring you avoid costly mistakes and get the best value for your money.
Why Partner with BuildPro for Your Garage Extension?
BuildPro leverages over two decades of experience in the construction industry, providing expert consultation services and valuable advice. Our services include:
- Designing your extension considering your needs, preferences, budget, and planning permissions.
- Identifying reliable contractors delivering quality work at competitive prices.
- Negotiating contracts and prices.
- Supervising contractors to ensure adherence to health and safety regulations.
- Resolving any issues or disputes that may arise during or post-project.
- Guaranteeing timely and budgeted project completion.
Our commitment is to offer top-tier consultation services to realise your dream garage extension at an affordable price.
Get in Touch with BuildPro
Ready to embark on your garage extension journey? Contact BuildPro for an expert consultation, personalised quote, and take a look at our portfolio of successful projects. We have over 20 years of experience in the construction industry and offer expert advice and guidance to make your dream garage extension a reality.
Don't let the garage extension cost deter you. Let's add significant value to your home together with BuildPro!
