A house is not a home without adequate storage. It’s hard to feel relaxed in your living space if your possessions lack proper homes. The last thing you want to do is feel like you’re living in a life-size junk drawer on a daily basis! Many of us forget how important garages are for storing our home improvement materials, lawn care equipment, vehicles, garbage bins, bulk groceries, bicycles and more. Without them, we often succumb to clutter and frustration.
But not all garages are created equal. Whether you’re house hunting, renovating your current garage or thinking of building a new storage structure, you have options. Keep reading to learn more about the finer points of attached versus detached garages.
And, before you even consider any major home improvements, get a homeowners insurance quote online to see how your premiums and policy needs may change.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Sometimes the type of garage you choose simply comes down to your property, budget or spatial needs. As Home Advisor advises, it’s useful to ask yourself a few questions:
You may find that one or more of these answers makes the choice for you. However, it’s still worthwhile to consider the pros and cons of each type of garage.
Attached Garages: Convenient
After a long day at work, the last thing you want to do is dart through the rain, snow or heat just to make it through the door. Attached garages are convenient because you can park inside and walk a few steps across the threshold. You’ll also thank yourself every time you have to unload groceries from your trunk and haul them inside, or take the trash out.
The major downside to attached garages is that they may weaken your home’s overall security. Every door you add to your home’s exterior gives intruders a potential entry point. If you do opt for an attached garage, make sure the doors are sturdy and you take security precautions like installing an alarm and a keypad with a strong, unique code that only your family knows.
Detached Garages: Customizable
Detached garages tend to give homeowners more freedom when it comes to design and usage. For instance, turning a detached garage into a workshop is a great way to accomplish home improvement, craft and work-related projects without completely overwhelming your home. As The Spruce writes, “When serving as a workshop, a detached garage can keep noise, odors and fire hazards separate from the main residence.”
Of course, detached garages tend to be more expensive because you can’t incorporate any existing walls in the design. Running electricity to a remote structure will also cost money, as you will likely have to hire an electrician. Be sure to check zoning rules and regulations to make sure whichever type of storage space you choose is legal for your property.
You can never have too much storage space—it’s just important to choose the right kind so you can get the most out of your home. As always, whenever you’re making any renovations or additions to your property, get a homeowners insurance quote so you can assess your new policy needs. CoverHound makes it easy; compare your coverage options today!
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