Garages are a staple in most American homes. They are used for parking cars, storing tools, and keeping the family organized. But what if you didn’t have a garage? Could you still live without one? In this blog post, we will explore some of the pros and cons of living without a garage. Stay tuned!
What You'll Learn Today
Is Having a Garage Worth It?
Garages have been around for centuries, and their purposes have evolved over time. Today, garages are used for many different reasons – from storage to parking to working on cars.
However, there is one main purpose that garages serve: they protect our vehicles from the weather. In some parts of the country, a garage is essential in order to keep a car protected from the cold winters or hot summers.
In warmer climates, however, people may not feel as though they need a garage and may choose to use that extra space for other purposes.
For example, in Florida many homeowners choose not to have a garage because it would just be another room to cool or heat during the summer or winter months.
So can you live without a garage? The answer depends on where you live and your personal needs and preferences.
Here are some of the key benefits of having a garage.
Security
A garage is an important part of any home, providing both shelter for your vehicles and extra storage space for your belongings.
But a garage can also offer an important element of security, keeping your valuables safe from thieves and vandals. By parking your car in a garage, you can deter would-be criminals who are looking for an easy target. And by storing your belongings in a locked garage, you can rest assured that they will be safe from theft.
Weather
One benefit of having a garage is that it provides protection from the weather for your car. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, your car will be protected from the harsh elements while it’s parked in the garage.
The same goes for if you live in an area with severe storms – your car will be safe from high winds and debris if it’s stored in the garage.
Additionally, a garage can help to keep your car cooler in the summer months, as the sun’s UV rays can’t penetrate through the garage door.
Resale Value
When it comes to home renovations, few things add as much resale value as a garage. Not only does a garage provide extra storage and protection for your car, but it can also be used as a workshop or additional living space.
As a result, homes with garages tend to sell for more than those without. If you’re thinking of selling your home in the future, building a garage is a great way to increase its value.
Storage
A final benefit of having a garage is that it provides additional storage space for your home. It can be used to store seasonal items such as holiday decorations, sports equipment, or extra furniture.
Having a garage also keeps your belongings safe from the elements and helps to protect them from theft. In addition, a garage can provide a place to work on projects or to park your car.
Can You Live Without a Garage?
For many people, a garage is an essential part of their home. It provides a space to store vehicles and other items, and it can also be used as a workshop or storage area. However, there are some situations where a garage is not necessary.
Here are some great alternatives.
Portable Garage
A portable garage is a temporary structure that can be used to shelter a car, boat, or other vehicle. Unlike a traditional garage, a portable garage is not attached to a house or other building. Instead, it is typically made of metal or PVC pipes and covers that can be assembled and disassembled as needed.
Portable garages are a good alternative to traditional garages for several reasons. First, they are much less expensive to build. Second, they can be easily moved if you need to change your location.
Here’s a video that will show you how to assemble one quickly:
Quonset Hut
If you’re looking for an alternative to a garage, a Quonset hut could be the perfect solution. Quonset huts are prefabricated metal buildings that can be quickly and easily assembled.
They’re often used as storage sheds or workshops, but they can also be outfitted with shelves, workbenches, and other features to make them ideal for storing and working on cars. Best of all, Quonset huts are relatively affordable and can be delivered and assembled in just a few days.
Car Covers
Car covers can provide an effective and affordable alternative to a garage, and they can be used in a variety of situations. For example, if you live in an apartment or condo with no driveway or garage, a car cover can be a great way to keep your car clean and protected from the elements.
If you frequently take your car camping or to the beach, a car cover can also be a handy way to keep sand and dirt from damaging your paint job. And if you live in an area with severe weather conditions, a car cover can help to protect your car from hail, wind, and rain.
Backyard Shed
Backyard sheds come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find one that suits your needs. Plus, they can be used for more than just storing your car. You can use them for hobbies, like woodworking or gardening, or as extra storage space for lawn equipment, holiday decorations, and more.
If you’re considering a backyard shed, be sure to check local zoning laws to see if there are any restrictions on shed size or placement.
Tent Canopies
Tent canopies are a great option for those without a garage or who need extra storage space. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to set up, and they provide protection from the elements for your car. Tent canopies come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find one that fits your needs.
Awnings
For people who live in places with bad weather, awnings provide an alternative to a garage. Awnings are metal or fabric structures that are attached to the side of a house. They can be opened or closed, depending on the weather.
Awnings can protect against the sun, wind, and rain. They can also be used to store things like bikes and luggage. Awnings are a good option for people who want to save money on a garage. They are also a good option for people who want to use their garage for something else, like a workshop.
Crawl Space Storage
For many homeowners, the garage is the default storage space. But what if you don’t have a garage, or your garage is full? One alternative is to create storage space in your crawl space.
Crawl spaces are the area beneath your home that is accessible from the outside. To create storage in your crawl space, you will need to waterproof it and install some shelves.
Waterproofing will protect your stored items from moisture, while shelving will make it easier to organize and access your belongings.
Carport
If you don’t have a garage, or if your garage is full of stuff, a carport is a great alternative. A carport is a covered parking area that can be attached to your house or freestanding.
Carports are usually less expensive than garages, and they can be put up relatively quickly. Another advantage of carports is that they can be used for other purposes, such as storage or a workshop.
Off-Street Parking or Reserved Parking Spots
One option is to rent an off-street parking spot from a nearby business or residential complex. This can be cheaper than renting a garage space, and it often comes with the added benefit of 24-hour access.
Another possibility is to purchase a reserved parking spot in a municipal lot or parking deck. These spots are typically available at a discount to monthly rates, and they can offer greater flexibility and convenience than street parking.
Does a House Lose Value Without a Garage?
When considering whether or not a garage adds value to a home, it’s important to weigh the cost of construction against the potential return on investment. The average cost of building a garage is around $16,000 to $40,000, and the average return on investment is 65%.
While this may seem like a good investment, it’s important to remember that garages are just one of many factors that homebuyers consider when making an offer.
In fact, according to a recent survey, 80% of homebuyers said that the presence of a garage was either “important” or “very important” when considering a purchase.
While this indicates that garages are certainly valuable, they are no more so than any other feature of a home. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to build a garage should come down to the specific needs and preferences of the buyer and the neighborhood in which the home is located.
