Attached or Detached Garages: Which Will Suit Your Needs?

No matter which type of home you buy, you probably want it to come with a garage. Garages can protect your car from the harsh winter elements. They also act as an expansive storage space for things like bikes and holiday decorations.

If you’re building a home, you will probably get to choose between a home with an attached garage or detached garage. Each one has its own benefits and disadvantages. Consider things from all angles before you make your final decision.

Convenience

There’s no doubt attached garages are incredibly convenient. You park your car and the door to get inside is just steps away. Detached garages, however, are usually across the backyard. It won’t be far away, but it will definitely not be quite as convenient. This is especially true when you have to make several trips to bring the groceries inside. 

Protection from Weather

Naturally, keeping your car in the garage helps keep your car safe from snow and rain. It’s nice to not have to brush the snow off your car before you have to leave for work. Beyond that, though, having a garage can also protect your family from the weather. You won’t have to worry about breaking out the umbrellas for the short trip between the house and the car. Since recent safety standards state kids should not have heavy winter coats on when they are strapped into their car seats, having the attached garage makes it easier to get them into the car since you don’t have to bundle them up.

Purpose of Your Garage

You’ll also want to think about how you’ll use your garage. Most people simply use it for parking and storing things like outdoor toys or out-of-season clothes. If this is how you plan to use the garage, either type could suit your needs. However, if you’re looking to use it as a shop space for someone in the family to work on projects, the detached garage may be the better choice. Noise will be further from the main living area.

Overall Look

Of course, looks are probably at the forefront of your mind. Modern home designs that include the attached garage typically have the garage in a prominent place at the front of the home. It’s a distinctive look that some people don’t like at all. If you are particular about your home’s curb appeal, you may lean towards homes with detached garages despite the minor inconveniences.

Community Style

Community guidelines often specify what homes look like. If you want a detached garage, you’ll have to select a community that has areas designed for this type of home. Some communities have areas allowing each style, but if you’ve already chosen the neighbourhood you want to live in, you need to stick with the models they offer. Making the choice between an attached or detached garage can help you find your perfect home in a new community.

Safety Concerns

Homes today are built to strict safety standards, so you don’t really have to worry about either type of garage being significantly less safe than the other. However, attached and detached each have some potential safety concerns. For instance, it would be easier for a thief to steal things from a detached garage. Since it’s separated from the home, you aren’t likely to hear anything suspicious. If this is something that worries you, an attached garage might ease your mind.

On the other hand, if a fire started in an attached garage, it could quickly spread to the rest of the home. In general, that’s not a big concern for most people, but if you plan to store any toxic or flammable materials in your garage, detached may be the better choice.

Cost

Cost is a top concern for everyone. In many cases, homes with attached garages cost a bit more. This might be because they tend to be larger and require bigger lots. The higher price might also be because having an attached garage is usually a bit more desirable. When you’re trying to find a home that fits your budget, it’s smart to look at all of your options. You may find you can get a much better deal on a home with a detached garage. This could help you upgrade to a new home on a budget. 

Alternatively, you may find the extra cost for a home with an attached garage isn’t big enough to be the deciding factor. Get a full estimate before you decide either way.

In most cases, choosing a home with an attached or detached garage boils down to personal preference. Choose the style you like, and you’re bound to be happy with your decision.