Building an attached or detached garage?
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 12
- 5 min read
In Quebec, building a garage is often a priority for homeowners due to harsh weather conditions and the need for storage space. Whether for a new construction or renovation project, choosing between an attached garage and a detached garage is a strategic decision.
At Plan Maison Québec, we support our clients every step of the way, taking into account their needs, budget, and local building codes. In this article, we present the advantages and disadvantages of both types of garages to help you make an informed choice.
Why choose an attached garage: practicality and integration
An attached garage is directly connected to the house. This type of construction is very popular, especially in urban areas or cold climates like Quebec. One of its greatest advantages is the direct access to the interior of the house, which helps protect against bad weather in winter or when it rains.
Architecturally, the attached garage blends perfectly with the existing building. Plan Maison Québec designs plans that respect the harmony of your home's style while optimizing interior space.
Another advantage of the attached garage is that it can easily benefit from existing installations: electricity, heating, and even plumbing, if you wish to add a workshop or utility space.
The disadvantages of an attached garage that should not be overlooked
Despite its advantages, an attached garage has some disadvantages that must be considered. First, its construction can be more expensive. Since it is integrated into the main structure, it requires greater rigor in insulation, waterproofing, and fire safety.
Another important aspect is the transmission of noise and odors. A poorly insulated attached garage can affect indoor living comfort. It is therefore essential to have a well-thought-out plan, which we systematically do at Plan Maison Québec.
Finally, from a legal perspective, some municipalities impose stricter standards for attached garages, which can limit the possibilities for subsequent modifications or lengthen the approval process.
The detached garage: autonomy and versatility
A detached garage, built separately from the house, is a very flexible option. It allows you to install a building wherever you choose on the land, taking into account:
topography
sunlight
future projects (adding a pool, garden, etc.).
This type of garage is also ideal for those looking for a noisy workshop, space for a recreational vehicle, or a triple garage.
It's easier to add special features such as a habitable floor, attic storage space, or a wider door for heavy vehicles.
From a design perspective, Plan Maison Québec can design a detached garage that complements the style of your home while maintaining its own aesthetic identity.
The limits of a detached garage: between distance and hidden costs
The main drawback of a detached garage is its distance from the house. In winter, walking through the snow to access your car can quickly become a major inconvenience, especially if it's the main parking space.
You'll also need to budget for adding a pedestrian path or even a temporary shelter, as well as for extending utilities such as electricity or water, if necessary. These can represent additional costs that are sometimes underestimated.
In terms of security, a detached garage can also be more vulnerable to theft because it's less guarded. It's therefore important to integrate security features into the design of the plan, an aspect that Plan Maison Québec always takes into account.
Budget Comparison: A Key Factor in Your Decision
Construction cost is often a determining factor in choosing between an attached and a detached garage. Generally, a detached garage may seem more economical at first glance, particularly because it can be built with a simple floating slab and requires less work to connect to the house's systems. However, this depends on its location on the lot: the further away it is, the higher the costs for connecting electricity or creating access can be.
Conversely, an attached garage requires more complex structural integration, which increases costs related to foundations, insulation, and building code compliance. However, it shares the same walls and utilities as the house, which can offset some of the costs.
At Plan Maison Québec, we help you clearly assess your budget based on the type of garage you want, in order to plan a realistic and well-thought-out project.
Comparison table: attached garage vs. detached garage
Criteria | Attached Garage | Detached Garage |
Initial construction cost | Higher (integration into the house, insulation, structure) | Lower (simple structure, often on floating slab) |
Connection costs | Lesser (sharing of house services) | Additional (electricity, remote heating) |
Development costs | Included in the house (no path needed) | Access path, roof or lighting to be provided |
Potential savings | Better insulation, greater energy efficiency | Flexibility of materials and implementation |
Valeur à la revente | Often higher, considered a major asset | Interesting if well designed (e.g. double garage or with mezzanine) |
The impact on resale value
Many Quebec homeowners wonder if the type of garage affects the value of their home. The answer is yes. An attached garage is often seen as a luxury because it offers daily comfort, especially for families or seniors.
However, a well-designed detached garage can also be very attractive, especially for buyers looking for a multifunctional space.
It can easily be converted into a secondary living space (studio, office, workshop), which can represent significant added value. Plan Maison Québec can help you maximize the value of your investment by designing a plan that combines aesthetics, functionality, and potential for growth.
Municipal regulations and building permits: leave nothing to chance
Before starting your garage project, whether attached or detached, it's essential to consult your municipality's bylaws. Setbacks, maximum surface area, building height, and permitted foundation types can vary considerably from one city to another in Quebec.
Plan Maison Québec is well-versed in local realities and ensures that each plan complies with current standards to avoid delays or permit refusals.
Conclusion: Make an informed choice with Plan Maison Québec
Building a garage, whether attached or detached, requires careful consideration and expertise. Each option has its strengths and limitations, and the right choice depends on your lifestyle, your lot, your future needs, and your budget. Trust Plan Maison Québec to help you make the best decision.
Together, let's design a garage perfectly adapted to your Quebec reality.
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