Do you want to extend your home simply? Don’t you know why garage conversions in Poole are attaining popularity? If yes, then you must go through this quick guide as a UK homeowner, especially if you are looking for a garage conversion.
Garage conversion is a highly affordable and simple option to add more space to your home without prolonging the property. In the UK, a garage is a dumping place that is never completely used by homeowners.
For many UK residents, a garage is not more than a car parking area. In this regard, converting the garage into a useful space can extend your house without escalating the property. However, garage conversion is not as simple as it appears, as it needs proper planning and a construction plan for converting the garage for other purposes.
In simple words, there are some important things you must consider as a UK homeowner for a successful garage conversion. Therefore, this post will now act as a quick guide while discussing the way to pursue garage conversions successfully.
Do You Need Permission for Garage Conversions in Poole?
In most situations, there is no such permission is required for converting your garage into a useful space. However, because of the strict UK government policy regarding home construction, it is better to confirm with the local authorities. Also, there are some areas in the UK, such as conservation areas or national parks, in which homeowners must get a conversion permission. Also, in some areas, local authorities claim a garage as a parking area. Therefore, it becomes necessary in such areas to start the garage conversion process through an application.
Steps to Follow for a Successful Garage Conversion
For a successful garage conversion in Poole, you must follow some steps, as a UK homeowner, as listed and explained below.
· Observing Existing Structure
Before planning the garage conversion, the first step you must follow is to observe the existing home structure. For doing so, you must consult with an experienced garage conversion builder or a structural engineer.
Especially, to confirm the structural integrity of your garage area and conversion costs, there is a need to inspect the floor, foundation, ceiling, and walls. Some garage areas are sensitive because of the old home structure. Therefore, structural inspection is necessary to measure the overall integrity of the garage area before converting it.
· Confirm Insulation
As a UK homeowner, you already know that the garage area is usually not insulated, as a garage is not constructed like a comfortable living area. Also, under building regulations, it becomes necessary to fulfil thermal standards while avoiding legal issues. In this regard, an insulated plasterboard is a simple and the best way to confirm garage insulation. Also, roof insulation is necessary if your garage has a room above.
· Consider Heating, Plumbing, and Electrical Systems
According to the garage conversion, as per needs, it is also essential to consider including heating, plumbing, and electrics. Whether you want to convert your garage into a guest room or a bathroom, you must consider installing these three systems for a successful conversion while using the space purposefully.
· Focus on Fire Safety
If there is an unsafe way to escape the garage, then you must focus on the fire safety system. In simple words, you must construct an extra escape route in your garage to overcome future risks.
· Damp Proofing
Damp proofing is also important for a successful garage conversion; you must consider it as a UK homeowner. Without damp proofing, you can’t convert your garage into a useful and extended area, regardless of the purpose. As you may already know that a single brickwork is done to construct a garage. Therefore, to overcome moisture issues while keeping the walls’ integrity, you must focus on damp proofing also.
· Replace the Garage Door
Garage conversions in Poole also need a door replacement for construction purposes. However, in a conservation area, there is no need to add a new garage door, as you can use the existing door. Replacing the existing garage door is also necessary for the interior of the extended garage into a useful space.
· Upgrade Garage Roof
Upgrading the garage roof is also important for the successful garage conversion, as it makes the garage area airtight and watertight. Either you can cover the roof or use tiles according to your preferences, as a UK homeowner.
Real-Life Examples of Garage Conversions
In real life, different examples of garage conversions are available, such as;
- Living area
- Extra bedroom
- Kitchen area
- Guest room
- Home office
- Play area for children
- A business area
- Utility room
- En suite
- Dog groomers and more.
Can Garage Conversions Increase Property Value in Poole?
A garage conversion significantly increases the property value up to 10%, based on the area. Especially, if you already have a parking area other than the garage, then converting your garage can increase the property value in Poole and other UK regions.
Final Remarks
In the UK, garage conversions in Poole are getting the attention of almost all homeowners. By converting the garage, it becomes easier to boost the aesthetic appeal of your home without extending it. Also, through garage conversions, it becomes easier to add extra and useful living space to your home, while increasing its value. Make sure to approach the right garage conversion service provider in Poole for a successful conversion in 2025.