- August 13, 2024
The age-old debate is here – single car vs. double car garage! The choice comes down to a number of factors, including personal choices, needs, and preferences. Where a single car garage is suitable for small households with limited use, a two-car garage is best suited for large families with more than one vehicle and storage needs. But which one should you pick? Let’s talk about it.
A Buyer’s Guide: Single Car Vs. Double Car Garage
#1. Pros & Cons Of Each Option
Installing a metal two car garage gives you a versatile structure and design that can accommodate your vehicles, storage, and space for other activities.
Pros
- It offers more parking space.
- The 2 car garage building has extra room for storage.
- You can create recreational areas for art studios, workshops, or DIY projects.
- It is cost effective (per square foot) compared to a single car garage.
- It adds more value to your home.
- It offers a flexible design. You can install two single doors or one wider door and a walk-in door.
Cons
- It needs a wider driveway compared to a single car parking space.
- The initial upfront cost is higher.
- It occupies more space on your property.
Metal one car garage has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of them.
Pros
- It is budget-friendly and has a lower upfront cost.
- A metal garage for one car is quick and easy to install.
- If your neighborhood mostly has a one car garage, it will be easy to sell.
Cons
- It has little to no storage.
- It is not ideal for families with multiple vehicles.
#2. Size Comparison
| 1-Car Garage | Dimensions | 2-Car Garage |
| 10’ x 18’ | Minimum | 20’ x 18’ |
| 12’ x 20’ | Average | 24’ x 20’ |
| 20’ x 20’ | With Storage | 30’ x 20’ |
| 7’ | Height | 8’ |
| (8’-9’) x (7’-8’) | Door Size | 16’ x (7’-8’) |
| Narrow | Driveway | Wider |
When Selecting Width
Allow at least 2.5’ space on either side of the car to ensure you can open and close the car’s door without bumping into another vehicle.
When Selecting Height
When selecting height, measure the height of your car from ground to top, including the antenna or fin. Check the eave’s height of the steel garage. Your vehicle must be able to glide in and out without getting scratches.
Tip: Always allow some extra space for maneuver.
#3. Cost Comparison
| 1-Car Garage | Cost | 2-Car Garage |
| $7,500 to $14,000 | Average | $19,000 to $28,000 |
| Note: The cost can be lower or higher depending on the current steel market price, installation location, and customization. | ||
#4. How To Choose The Right Size
Here are some factors that you must consider when choosing the garage size:
- Budget: If you are tight on budget, you can consider a single car garage. But, if you need parking space for two vehicles, prefab 2 car garages are excellent budget-friendly options.
- Need: Identify the purpose of installing a garage. Do you need parking space only, or do you need space for a workshop and other activities?
- Space Available: How much area is available on your lot after including setback rules? If you have extra space, go for a double car garage.
- HOA | Local Rules: Check the limitations and restrictions your local zoning laws and building codes impose.
#5. Which Option Fits Your Lifestyle?
It is important to know the purpose of your garage to determine if a car or two car metal garage will fit your lifestyle.
Purpose for Single Car Parking Space: It is designed to fit one car only. You can get a larger size to fit a tool chest or garage shelves.
Purpose of 2 Car Garage Metal Building: It is ideal for parking two cars. If you need room for other activities, such as a home gym, office/ workshop space, or DIY hobby area, it is ideal.
Tip: Consider your future needs, such as purchasing a new vehicle, growing your family, or using the garage area for any other purpose.
#6. Resale Value
It is a no-brainer! Two car garages add more value to your property. In addition, if you have to finish with built-in storage and electrical outlets & plumbing for DIY activities, it further boosts the desirability among new buyers.
#7. Making The Right Choice
If your property has limited space, one car garage is suitable. However, having space to install a two-car garage will give you a higher return on investment. Finally, it boils down to personal preferences.
Another thing you must consider is your neighborhood. If everyone else has a car parking space, you will have a hard time selling a property with a one-car garage. In that situation, a two car steel garage would be best suited for this situation.
Double The Space, Double The Value With Vikings Metal Garages
For minimal storage, simplicity, efficiency, and parking a vehicle, a car garage will suit you just fine; however, if you need extra storage space, a workplace, and more room to maneuver your cars, investing in a two car metal garage is the best option. Call (704)-741-1587 to learn more and get a free quote! Remember, it is not about size but how well you use it.
Alabama