7 Garage Upgrades that can Increase the Value of Your Home

A garage is a valuable asset to any home. Aside from covering your car and protecting it in the winter, the garage gives you additional space for storage. If you need more room to store things in your home than what your current garage provides, consider some of these seven upgrades that can increase the value of your home.

Install Custom Shelving

The more storage space that you create, the more valuable your garage will become. For many people, a garage can quickly turn into a junk collector so if you want to make more of your garage functional, consider custom shelving.

Shelving for a garage ranges from cheap to expensive, however, there are many reasonably priced options available. Having a variety of shelving styles and sizes will also come in handy allowing owners to store everything from unused lawn care items to tools, holiday decor and more.

If budgets allow, having cabinetry installed in your garage can also help increase value as well as overall aesthetic appeal. Cabinets can be used to store everything from children's toys to car care items and offer more storage potential in comparison to open shelving.

Replace an Old, Poorly Functioning Door

If you currently have an old garage door in need of replacement, consider upgrading it to improve the value of your home. A new, energy-efficient door can save money on utility bills while also improving security. You will also be able to take advantage of today's wider array of colors and styles in comparison to when you first installed your garage door.

Having an automatic garage door is becoming a standard feature for most homes today as it allows for easy access without having to leave your home or vehicle. It can also add an additional safety feature as these doors require a passcode to access. Nowadays, there is even the option for smart garage doors which allow owners to open and close their garages using wifi capabilities.

Light it Up

A garage can act as an extension of your home, however, it will be considered wasted space if you can't use it past dusk. Having proper lighting installed in your garage will not only provide additional security but will also allow you to use the space much later into the evening. Installing motion sensor lights is a great option as it provides optimal lighting and reduces energy costs. If installing new lights or rewiring an entire system isn't something that you would like taking up any of your time there are also available plug-in options that can be installed on a temporary or permanent basis.

A motion sensor light can be installed into the garage as well as provide an additional layer of security as it will alert you when movement is occurring or automatically turn on when you enter.

Add a Man Door

If your garage currently only has access via the main garage door, installing a man door can really increase functionality and value. A man door is essentially an additional door that connects the interior of your home with the garage or adds separate exterior access from the main door.

Regardless of which one you choose to invest in, or both if budget allows, there are many conveniences to having them such as less wear and tear on your garage door, being able to access your garage from both inside and outside of your home, keeping the elements out when you have a pet or young child, etc.

Refinish the Garage Floor

If the floor of your garage is currently in bad condition, consider having it refinished. Not only will it add to the overall value of your home, but a new concrete floor can be customized to suit your needs and style preferences. You can choose from several colors and patterns or even have it sealed with an epoxy surface for added safety and durability.

Refinishing a garage floor can greatly increase the look of your home as well as provide an added level of functionality. While you may be hesitant to drive over it with heavy items, most finishes have been tested to hold up under the weight of cars.

Insulate and Vent

If your garage is poorly insulated or doesn't have enough ventilation you can expect to see significantly higher energy bills each month. Adding properly sized insulation is the best way to control heat and maintain a more comfortable climate. While most garages are already vented, it is important that they are also well sealed in order to allow for proper air circulation.

Depending on where you live, adding a heat source can also be a valuable asset to your garage. If you don't already have one, now is the time to consider purchasing an overhead heater. Not only will it help maintain comfortable temperatures year-round, but it can help maintain the integrity of temperature-sensitive items which are stored in the garage during colder months.

Add a Storage Loft or Second Story

If you're short on storage space in your garage, why not create more? Installing a storage loft is one of the most popular ways to add additional square footage to your garage. Depending on budget and current garage style, a complete second story might also be an option. Installing a second story will not only add to the value of your home but give you multiple floors of storage space.

Expanding your garage by adding a loft or second story can greatly increase the value of your home while also increasing its functionality. Not only will you have added room for storage, but even more floor space to park cars.

If you're looking for ways to increase the value of your home, then garage renovations are a great place to start. Not only will you be able to enjoy your home more, but it could also make a great selling point down the road. Regardless of it is a small project or a major overhaul, investing some time and money into one’s garage is one of the best ways to increase overall value.