Building a workshop/big garage by myself.. need to know how :)

[geeco1]

Re: Building a workshop/big garage by myself.. need to know how

I suggest that you double check your zoning regulations. As an example, I live in a small subdivision that sits outside of town. Everyone has 1-2 acres. There are no subdivision rules as far as what type of house, outbuildings, etc (except no mobile homes or modulars). I can build a shed, stick-built garage, etc with only a permit application. BUT, if I want to build a pole-barn, then I have to have a public hearing, pay additional fees, etc. All because I don't have 5 acres.

This may not apply to where you live, but it would be wise to find out before you start ordering materials. I would think that a pole-barn would be the cheapest to get you going. I have seen many pole-barns that have been converted into finished offices, etc. Traditional framed buildings is easier to finish, but more expensive in the beginning.

 

[redfury]

Re: Building a workshop/big garage by myself.. need to know how

I suggest that you double check your zoning regulations. As an example, I live in a small subdivision that sits outside of town. Everyone has 1-2 acres. There are no subdivision rules as far as what type of house, outbuildings, etc (except no mobile homes or modulars). I can build a shed, stick-built garage, etc with only a permit application. BUT, if I want to build a pole-barn, then I have to have a public hearing, pay additional fees, etc. All because I don't have 5 acres.

This may not apply to where you live, but it would be wise to find out before you start ordering materials. I would think that a pole-barn would be the cheapest to get you going. I have seen many pole-barns that have been converted into finished offices, etc. Traditional framed buildings is easier to finish, but more expensive in the beginning.

Agreed. For me to put up a garage on my property, I have to take into consideration the % of sq. ft used in total for all impervious surfaces. I can only use up to 25% of my 1/3rd acre in order to accomplish that, which would include the house, garage, and driveway. The garage has to be behind the house, so the driveway is killing my ability to build a larger garage. I think at best I might be able to get into a 24x26, even though there are houses around me with much larger garages than that ( darn grandfathering! ) And you'll want to get in touch with your building inspector to find out what kind of guy he is when you start sorting out your plans. Mine is pretty cool, I've exchanged a lot of emails with him to make sure I can do what I want, and he's been really good at letting me know if my plans/timeframe are wise or not. Get in good with this person, and the project will have less hiccups, at least in the ways of inspections going sour.