Guide To Upgrade Metal Carport To Garage

Most homeowners look to upgrade their existing structures, like a carport into a garage or a living space, to make the maximum use of available square footage. It offers better protection against weather, boosts property rating, and adds an enclosed storage area for the home. But how to convert a metal carport to the garage? Here, we will break down this question into 5 steps & simplify them.

7 Reasons Why To Upgrade Metal Carport Into A Garage

Here are the top 7 reasons why a steel carport to the garage is the best conversion for homeowners.

• Enhances property’s value
• Increases storage space
• Improves weather protection
• Improves climate control
• Gives peace of mind to the owner
• A cost-effective process instead of building a new garage from scratch
• Custom garage space to fit specific needs

5 Steps To Turning A Carport Into A Garage By Enclosing A Metal Carport

We will begin with basic checks of the existing carport structure and proceed with the necessary changes to convert the carport into a garage.

I. Planning & Preparation Of Carport Renovation Into A Garage

Assessing Current Carport Structure: Before you jump onto the renovation, it is important to access the existing metal carport. Monitor frames, roof panels, paint, base, anchors, and screws. If any repairs or replacements need to be made, do it promptly before beginning the remodeling project.

Local Regulation: Each location has a set of rules for construction in residential areas. These rules are meant to ensure all buildings are safe & sound and can sustain local weather well. This is likely the reason you need a permit for a garage conversion.

Note: The permit can cost between $150 and $500 based on the type & location of your project.

Budgeting: Get an idea of the estimated costs of carport to garage conversion. Include all necessary soft costs, from permit fees & utilities to flooring, finishing, & basic interiors. Ensure financial planning is done to avoid stress.

Note: The average cost of converting a metal carport into a garage is $10-$25K for one car carport & $20-$40K for 2 car carport.

Design Consideration: Determine your needs & goals for the garage, such as what’s its primary purpose. Do you want a single car garage or a 2 car metal garage? Do you need extra space for storage, a workshop, or a living area? This will let you create an accurate layout.

Choose A Layout: How much space do you want for storing the vehicle or for storage? You can even add extra features like workbenches, shelving, etc. Having a proper layout will ensure you get the most storage out of garage space.

What To Include In The Layout Of Garage Conversion?

Do you want to have windows, walk-in doors, or roll-up doors for the garage? If so, plan it before you begin the construction project. If you need extra space but have a small carport, you can add a lean-to for an open, shaded area.

Select Material & Tools: Gather all materials & tools before beginning the project, such as metal panels, screws, braces, anchors [if needed], toolbox, power tools, etc. Don’t forget about safety equipment, personal protection kit, and first aid box.

II. Foundation & Framing For The New Garage

Prepare The Site: Clear your metal carport thoroughly. Watch out for any damage, especially on the roof, trim, & gutter. If you find faded or chipped-off paint, apply metal primer over it and paint it. Address any rusting or minor problems in the carport structure before starting the garage renovation.

Foundation Updates: What type of base does your carport have? It is important to have the right type of foundation for the garage to create a stable structure. If your carport has a gravel bed or leveled ground, you will need to upgrade it to a concrete foundation for garage conversion. If you already have a concrete slab, check to see if it needs any touch-ups.

Build A Framework: Add necessary farming and attach sidewalls & support to the carport. If you are installing a new structure, you can select a 12 gauge steel residential garage for higher stability & durability against strong winds & snow.

III. Enclosure & Roofing For Your 2 Car Metal Garage

Enclosure Options: Add garage door & windows’ frame at this point. Metal enclosures are durable, low-maintenance, and resistant to pests & fire. With the right design & color, you can blend them with any existing structure.

We offer corrugated metal sidings in horizontal & vertical designs with all our metal buildings. These can be 29 gauge or 26 gauge, depending on your needs, local regulations, and budget.

Roofing Updates: If you want natural lighting, place windows strategically for fresh airflow & lighting. You can also replace a few roof panels with polycarbonate panels of your double-wide carport or cut out a place for a skylight, but that will need precision & more work.

Tip: Ensure your roof is insulated for better climate control and effective HAVC working.

We offer double bubble and woven R17 insulations with our metal structures for temperature control. You can customize one based on location & primary functionality of the building.

IV. Electrical & Plumbing For Metal Garage

Electrical Considerations: Be sure to have ample wiring & circuit breakers that can handle lighting, power tools, & any appliances. For lighting, choose overhead/ task light for the workspace and motion sensor lights for convenience. Install electric outlets [GFCI] along the walls of your prefab metal garage for charging electric cars and garage door openers, and use power tools.

Plumbing Considerations: If you plan to use the garage as a workshop, you will need water, proper drainage, plumbing fixtures, a water heater, and insulation for pipes to prevent water from freezing during winter. Make sure to comply with local building codes & regulations, as you may require a permit for installing new electrical & plumbing lines.

V. Finishing Touches To Convert Carport Into A Garage

Garage Door Installation: You can choose roll-up doors for car entry & exit. If you want a storage space in your new garage, add a walk-in door facing your home for easy access to household items. A garage door can cost about $1200. There are several factors affecting garage door cost, from material, style, width, & type to insulation, local labor cost, and design elements.

Flooring Options: The most common & cost-effective option for garage floors is concrete, as it is durable, easy to clean, and can be painted for aesthetics. Other options are epoxy coating, interlocking tiles, and polyuria coatings.

Tip: If you are a fan of wooden flooring but don’t want a high-maintenance garage floor, consider stamping concrete and using a tintable oil-base stain for a wood grain effect.

Storage Solutions: It is best to use vertical space in your newly converted garage as it saves floor area & gives more storage options. You can install the following to create storage space:

• wall-mounted shelves
• overhead storage
• cabinets & drawers
• pegboards & magnetic boards
• industrial shelving with clear bins
• sturdy hooks for hanging objects

Painting & Sealing: Choose the right color paint. If you live in a hot & humid region, consider reflective or light colors that redirect most sunlight, keeping indoor cool. For colder areas, opt for a dark color [esp. Roof panels] that absorb sunlight, keeping indoors warmer than the surroundings.

Adding Basic Interior: Your carport-to-garage renovation will be decorated based on what you need. But here are some basic things that you can add to your newly renovated garage to increase functionality & comfort:

• Insulation – for temperature control
• Floor Mats/ Rugs
• Ventilation – for fresh air circulation
• Basic Finishing – drywall, paint, wallpaper, furniture like foldable desk, chair, etc.

DIY Vs. Hiring A Contractor For Metal Carport Garage Renovation

It is important to decide if you would like to DIY how to build metal carport into a garage or want to hire a helping hand. We suggest doing small & easy tasks like cleaning, checking, and repairing the foundation by yourself and then hiring a contractor for the rest.  A correctly installed or renovated garage will increase your home value. 

If you don’t have prior experience in construction, it is best to ask for help. After all, it’s a sturdy & robust garage that will hold value on your property. 

Transform Your Carport Into An Ultimate 2 Car Metal Garage

So, how would you like to begin transitioning your carport into a steel garage? If you are looking to install a new carport or metal garage building, call us for a free quote at (704)-741-1587. Our final quote includes shipping & installation with excellent craftsmanship & high-quality metal garages.