What are the stages of building a garage?
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 12
- 5 min read
Adding a garage to your property isn't just a matter of convenience; it's also a wise investment that increases the value of your home while improving your daily quality of life. Whether it's to shelter your car, create additional storage space, or set up a workshop, building a garage is a major project that requires careful planning. At Plan Maison Québec, we assist hundreds of homeowners each year in designing their garages, offering them customized plans adapted to Quebec standards and their specific needs.
In this article, we present the main steps to follow to successfully build your garage, from initial planning to the finishing touches, providing valuable advice to avoid common mistakes and ensure your project is a success.
Prepare your project well: planning and regulations
Every good project begins with a serious planning phase. It's not enough to know that you want a garage: you also need to know what type of garage, for what purpose, and where you want to locate it on your property.
The first point to clarify is the intended use: do you want a single or double garage? A separate space or one attached to your house? Will you need a mezzanine, built-in storage, or even a space for DIY projects? This consideration will determine:
the required surface area
the type of structure
the preferred materials
and the budget to plan for.
Before finalizing your choices, it's also strongly recommended that you review several garage models and sources of inspiration. This step allows you to better visualize the various possible configurations, consider details you might not normally think of, and, above all, avoid regretting certain choices once construction is completed.
Next, it's imperative to consult your municipality's planning regulations. In Quebec, each city imposes its own building requirements: setbacks, maximum height, authorized surface area, types of materials, distance from other buildings, etc. Some projects also require a building permit. At Plan Maison Québec, we have the expertise to design plans that comply with local requirements, which greatly facilitates the process of obtaining a permit.
Choose the location and prepare the ground
The next step is to choose the ideal spot on your land to build your garage. The location must meet several criteria:
accessibility (for your vehicle or tools)
proximity to the house (if the garage is attached)
orientation (for natural light)
compliance with municipal by-laws.
Once the location is determined, the site must be prepared. This often involves clearing, leveling, and compacting the soil to create a stable base for the foundation. If your land has a slope, it may be necessary to carry out backfilling or drainage work.
It is also recommended to plan the necessary connections (electrical, plumbing, heating, etc.) at this stage to avoid costly modifications later. Plan Maison Québec can help you integrate these elements into your plan design.
Laying a solid foundation: foundations and concrete slab
In Quebec, harsh climatic conditions require robust foundations. The most common type of foundation used for garages is a concrete slab on compacted soil, often insulated to improve comfort and prevent heat loss.
The first step is to excavate the soil to the necessary depth, taking into account the recommended frost depth (often around 4 feet in many regions of Quebec). Formwork is then installed to outline the slab, followed by the addition of a layer of compacted gravel to ensure proper drainage.
In most cases, it is recommended to add an insulating membrane under the slab as well as a metal mesh to reinforce the concrete. Once everything is in place, the concrete is poured and leveled. It takes several days for the concrete to fully cure, and the slab must be completely dry before beginning construction of the structure.
Build the structure: walls, roof and openings
Once the slab is ready, it's time to move on to building the frame. This is where your garage really begins to take shape. This step includes assembling the walls, installing the roof frame, and installing openings like the garage door, side doors, and windows. The materials used can vary depending on your preferences, budget, and your municipality's requirements. Treated wood is very popular in Quebec for the frame, while aluminum and vinyl are often used for exterior siding due to their weather resistance.
The choice of roof also depends on the style of your home and the climate conditions. Gable roofs (sloped) are very common to prevent snow accumulation. A gutter system must also be planned for rainwater drainage.
It is crucial to comply with construction and safety standards at this stage. A good construction plan, provided by Plan Maison Québec, will ensure that everything is done according to professional standards.
Install systems: electricity, heating and ventilation
A modern garage is much more than just a shelter. Depending on its intended use, you may need to install:
an electrical system
heating
mechanical ventilation.
Electricity is often essential, if only for lighting, opening the garage door, or plugging in tools. This involves running cables, installing outlets, light fixtures, and sometimes a dedicated electrical panel.
If you plan to use your garage year-round, a heating system is essential, especially in the colder regions of Quebec. Several options are available: radiant heating in the slab, electric baseboards, or even a convection stove. Some also opt for wall-mounted heat pumps.
Finally, ventilation is essential, especially if you plan to do DIY work or park your car there in the winter. Poor ventilation can lead to the buildup of humidity, harmful gases, and mold. The installation of an air exchanger or a natural ventilation system can be considered.
Interior and exterior finishes: aesthetics and functionality
Once the structure and systems are installed, the finishing touches are now needed, which will add both comfort and aesthetics to your new garage.
Inside, thermal and acoustic insulation are a wise choice, especially if the garage is heated. The walls can be covered with drywall, plywood, or another easy-to-maintain material. The floor can be treated with paint or epoxy coating, which is very popular for its stain resistance and easy maintenance.
Outside, the siding (wood, vinyl, brick, sheet metal, etc.) should be chosen based on the aesthetics of your home, as well as its durability. A good harmony between the garage and the house increases the value of your property and enhances its visual appeal.
Also consider practical features such as outdoor lighting, access ramps, or a shed for waste or gardening tools.
Conclusion: Entrust your project to Plan Maison Québec
Building a garage is a complex project, involving a series of technical and administrative steps that should not be overlooked. From initial planning to the finishing touches, each phase is important to ensure a durable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing result.
At Plan Maison Québec, our team puts all its expertise at your service to offer you custom garage plans, designed according to your needs, budget, and current regulations. By working with us, you're guaranteed a solid start, with professional plans that will facilitate each stage of construction.
Do you dream of building a garage that fits your lifestyle?
Kommentare