Garages make great storage for your vehicles, ATVs, tools, and other supplies. But if you have a small home, that’s a lot of room you could repurpose into living quarters, such as an extra bedroom.

If you want to make your garage into a garage bedroom, either for your family or as a rental space, you’ll need a plan. Here’s everything you need to know to make your garage makeover a success.

Benefits of a Garage Bedroom

There are a lot of possibilities with a garage bedroom. If you have a small home, your garage can offer extra living space or a separate bedroom for kids or other family members. You could also use the space as a guest room for visitors.

For the occupant, a garage bedroom offers a little distance from the main living spaces for extra privacy. For example, if you have a teen who’s getting into playing drums, you can set them up in the garage bedroom for some relief from the noise.

Generally, converting a garage into a bedroom is more cost-effective than building an addition to your home. You can revamp the space quite easily without major construction.

Once you have the garage bedroom, you can use it as a rental space for extra income or a short-term rental for travelers. Then, if you sell your home in the future, the garage bedroom could add to your home’s value and usable square footage.

Plan and Create Your Garage Bedroom

Ready to get started? Here’s what to consider as you plan the garage bedroom of your dreams.

1. Empty the Garage

If you currently store vehicles or equipment in your garage, you’ll have to clean it out first. Make the space a clean slate to start your home improvement project. Be sure to seal any cracks and address any areas that need repairing.

2. Make a Plan

The first step of any home improvement project is planning, including coming up with the costs, designs, layouts, and cool garage ideas. Consider your budget and building codes and regulations for your locality. Once you have a plan, you can apply for the necessary permits and begin your project.

3. Thinking About Heating, Cooling, and Insulation

Heating, cooling, and insulation are important for a space that will be used for sleeping. Depending on your current home heating and cooling, you could add a ductless HVAC system to your garage.

With proper insulation, the room will be comfortable with the changing seasons. Insulation also keeps the outside noise from coming in and reduces energy costs. Make sure you repair or replace any insulation before you start your project.

4. Install New Flooring

Garages typically have concrete flooring that’s cold and uncomfortable. Carpet is a good choice for bedrooms as it’s plush and warm. Plus, carpeting comes in an array of colors and styles to suit your taste.

If you prefer, laminate flooring is a quick, affordable option that looks just like stone or hardwood. It’s also more durable and will last a long time.

5. Spruce Up the Walls

Most garages have drab walls. Think about how you’ll spruce up the walls with paint, wallpaper, or built-in shelving for storage options. Make sure to choose something that works with your original plan for the space.

6. Add Overhead and Other Lighting

Your garage likely has electrical wiring, but you may need to install additional wiring for more electrical outlets and lighting. If you’re unfamiliar with electrical work, it’s best to work with a qualified electrical contractor.

At a minimum, you will need overhead lighting for the garage bedroom, but most people like table, floor, and closet lamps for different ambiance and visibility.

7. Choose the Right Garage Door

This is where you can elevate your garage bedroom’s style. Instead of common styles of garage doors, you can choose contemporary glass garage doors that let tons of natural light into the space and enhance the bedroom’s look. If that’s a little too much visibility, try a garage door with windows.

But aside from looks, you want a garage door that’s water-resistant and secure, including a door that locks. You will also need a smaller door similar in style to match. A garage door contractor in Austin, like Austin’s Greater Garage Doors, can help you find the best option for your garage conversion.

8. Consider How to Minimize Extra Noise

Garages are often noisier than a home, which isn’t ideal for a garage-bedroom conversion. Insulation will help with some of the noise penetration, but if you live on a busy street or have a lot of outside noise, you may want to install foam panels or sound-dampening insulation to keep it quiet.

9. Pick Your Décor and Furniture

You’re almost done! Now, all you have to do is pick out the décor and furniture for your garage. If you’re renting the bedroom, choose neutral options that allow your renter to infuse a little of their style into the space.

If the bedroom is for a family member, get their input to ensure the space reflects their style.

Looking to Upgrade Your Garage?

Turning your garage into a bedroom has many benefits, but it’s a big undertaking. Instead of learning through trial and error, trust the professionals at Austin’s Greater Garage Doors to help with your garage renovation. We use only the best materials and techniques for a safe, comfortable, and functional garage bedroom. Contact us today to learn more.