Attached vs. Detached Garages: The Pros and Cons
05-22-2024
Beyond providing a secure space for your family's vehicles, a garage can contribute to your home’s overall aesthetics and functionality. However, before enjoying these benefits, you must decide between an attached or detached garage. By exploring the pros and cons of both options below, you can make the best decision for your space. Then, turn to Phoenix Home Services for reliable garage additions in Northern Virginia.
Phoenix Home Services is a premier home improvement and remodeling contractor that NOVA homeowners trust. Whether you want to remodel, expand, or custom-build a garage, our team has you covered. With over 30 years of experience, our dedicated team delivers a personalized, low-stress design and build process. Call (703) 543-6929 to learn more about our garage addition services!
Attached Garages
Generally used for storage and sheltering vehicles, an attached garage is physically connected to the main living space of a house, sharing at least one common wall. A standard attached garage provides direct access to a home (typically through an interior door) and leads to a laundry room, mudroom, or kitchen.
This setup boasts certain advantages over a detached garage. Since it offers direct access to your home, an attached garage is often more convenient than a detached one. Regardless of outside weather, you can easily move groceries, tools, or other items from your car to the house.
Additionally, finishing an attached garage (or just incorporating utilities) is relatively simple since it shares the home’s structure. Homeowners may even want to use their climate-controlled garage as extra living space. Simply hire experienced contractors for interior garage finishing to increase your home’s functional space.
Nevertheless, noises and odors from an attached garage can enter your house’s living area. You must also be careful storing paints, pesticides, and other chemicals in your attached garage so residents avoid exposure to harmful fumes. Finally, your attached garage must fit within all future exterior designs since it is part of your home’s architecture.
Detached Garages
A detached garage is a freestanding structure, physically unconnected to your main living area. While it offers the same functions as an attached garage, this variety stands independent from the house some distance away.
Detached garages offer privacy, opportunities for expansion, and design flexibility. Moreover, their separation from the main living area reduces the potential for noise and odor transfer. Plus, as they do not rely on the structure of your home, you can control detached garage design factors like size, style, and placement.
You can also alter a detached garage at any point with minimal disruptions to your routine. For instance, some homeowners like to expand the available storage space above or next to the main structure to store seasonal items or hobby equipment.
Yet since detached garages are distinct from their owners’ homes, building one can be daunting and expensive. Heating and cooling cannot be shared with the main house. Additionally, a detached garage is less accessible than an attached one, and yours could take up valuable yard space.
The Bottom Line
Choosing between an attached or detached garage depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. You must consider factors such as convenience, privacy, and design aesthetics when making your decision. Hiring the right professional builder can provide valuable insights and help you weigh the pros and cons of each option.
Professional Garage Additions in Northern Virginia!
Homeowners looking to start their new garage addition in Northern Virginia can trust Phoenix Home Services. Every home project deserves a thoughtful and personalized approach, so we take the time to understand your unique needs, preferences, and vision. We pride ourselves on attention to detail and use only the best materials and techniques to create beautiful spaces built to last. Call (703) 543-6929 today to receive a free project estimate for your garage!