Converting a garage into a room

October 28, 2014
"Is your family home bursting at the seams? Many of us outgrow our properties but are loathe to move into a larger house. This could be for a number of reasons, such as the cost of moving or not wanting to have to change jobs and schools. It may be because other than the lack of space, you're perfectly happy in your current home. It may be best to consider converting a garage into a room."

Add space by converting an unused garage to a room

Is your family home bursting at the seams? Many of us outgrow our properties but are loathe to move into a larger house. This could be for a number of reasons, such as the cost of moving or not wanting to have to change jobs and schools. It may be because other than the lack of space, you’re perfectly happy in your current home. It may be best to consider converting a garage into a room.

Here at High-Tech Membrane Roofing, we have seen many customers decide against moving and opting instead to add an extension. In particular, in just the last few years, we have seen a sharp rise in the amount of people converting their garages.

 

Why a garage conversion?

 

Let’s face it – a lot of us don’t use our garages in the way they we should. Instead of keeping our cars safe and dry, they become a dumping ground for storage. Yet a garage conversion can provide a much-needed extra ground floor room without consuming any of your garden.

This new space can be used as a second reception room, dining room, playroom or another bedroom. Garage conversions have also become popular amongst families with elderly relatives who can no longer live alone, as well as returning students who have to rely on mum and dad until they have the money for their own deposit.

 

What are the potential pitfalls

 

A garage extension is much cheaper than a completely new house extension. And, if done professionally and efficiently, they can add significant value to your home.

However, it is essential that you take into consideration the insulation of your new room. A garage is not meant to be lived in. Therefore, increasing its insulation and energy efficiency is imperative if you want a habitable, comfortable room.

You may automatically think ‘walls’ but don’t forget the roof as this will also need insulation. Whether the roof is flat or pitched, a typical garage roof is designed for nothing more than protecting the interior from rain and weather damage. Unless there is a room directly above your garage, it is very likely that its existing roof will need to be upgraded.

You can, of course, insulate your existing garage roof. But what state is it in? How long will it last? Would it be better to replace your flat roof to ensure it lasts?

 

Maintenance free flat roofing

 

Here at High-Tech Membrane Roofing, we are specialists in the installation of market-leading Single-Ply Membrane roofing systems. 100% waterproof, maintenance-free and specifically designed to withstand the harshest of elements, our flat roofs have four decades of proven technology and an unsurpassed reputation in the domestic and commercial markets.

High-Tech Membrane Roofing’s flat roofing systems have a much longer lifespan than traditional mineral felt applications, which over time, can blister before becoming brittle and cracking. This in turn, can result in extensive damage to the roof, joists and if not rectified quickly, the room below.

Conversely, our PVC membranes are engineered to form a stable, waterproof covering that is unaffected by expansion, contraction, moss, algae and damaging UV rays.

In fact, we are so confident in our product that we offer a LIFETIME guarantee. This includes a 25-year full product and labour warranty that will turn into a lifetime guarantee at the end of the term. Alternatively, if you do decide to sell, this warranty can be fully transferable to the new homeowners on request.

You are safe in the knowledge that your investment is protected, whether you choose to stay in your home or sell at a later date.

Are you thinking of carrying out a garage conversion? Don’t end up with a cold, inefficient, uncomfortable room. Please call High-Tech Membrane Roofing.

Steve Thornton – Author

If you have a question about this or any of our blogs, or about any of our services, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

We will always try and answer your question quickly and professionally.

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