Detached Garage or Garage Additions in Seattle, WA
Do you dream of parking your car in a sheltered garage instead of out on the street? Are you desperate for more storage space or an area to pursue hobbies like woodworking or vintage car restoration? If so, you could benefit from a garage. As Seattle’s home renovation expert, Better Builders is ready to help you construct the perfect detached garage for your needs.
Ready to begin the design process? Call 206-588-2075 to schedule a free consultation today!
Should I Add a Detached Garage?
Here’s what to consider when comparing an attached garage vs. a detached garage:
- The shape and size of your lot: Consider how garage placement will affect the shape of your remaining yard. For instance, a long, narrow lot could be a natural fit for a detached garage, leaving space for a yard between the house and the new structure.
- The use you have in mind: If you intend to tinker on vintage cars or set up a woodshop, you may appreciate the privacy and sound dampening of a detached garage set away from the main living space. Even if you simply park your car in the detached garage, you’ll have fewer worries about fumes entering the house.
- Age and design of your home: Many historic single-family dwellings don’t have a garage, and attaching one to the house would look awkward. An alleyway or other access point behind your home could make a detached garage the better choice.
For help deciding if a detached garage is right for you, please call Better Builders at 206-536-2481.
Detached Garage or Garage Addition FAQs
Before you begin building, speak to a designer about these concerns:
- Size of the garage: The minimum dimensions for a one-car garage are 14 feet by 20 feet, and a two-car garage should be at least 20 feet by 24 feet. Still, it never hurts to include an extra 6 to 8 feet if your property size allows.
- How close it should be to the house: Whether you want to minimize the distance between the house and the garage or put more space between the two structures, remember that you must adhere to building codes and HOA regulations. Contact the applicable authorities before you finalize your detached garage design.
- Weatherproofing: It’s more affordable to install insulation and HVAC systems during new construction, so add these now if you think you’ll ever use the garage as a living or hobby space.
- Storage: Built-in garage storage provides the ideal place for gardening tools, sporting equipment, and holiday decorations that you don’t want to keep in the house.
- Security: At the very least, install locks on your detached garage doors. Consider surveillance cameras and other security measures as well.
- Exterior finishes: For design continuity, the new structure should match the house as closely as possible. This means choosing a designer who can find corresponding exterior finishes for the most beautiful results.
The choice between a detached garage and an attached garage addition depends on your property layout, lifestyle, and budget.
- Detached Garage: Offers more flexibility for design, can function as a multi-purpose space (home gym, ADU, workshop, or storage), and provides better privacy and noise separation. It's ideal if you want to maintain the architectural style of your home while adding extra functionality.
- Attached Garage Addition: More convenient for quick access, especially in Seattle’s rainy climate, and may be more cost-effective since it shares a wall with the existing home. However, it may require extensive modifications to the home’s structure and design.
Better Builders helps homeowners assess their needs and property layout to determine the best option that aligns with their long-term goals, design preferences, and energy efficiency considerations.
Yes! Many Seattle-area homeowners are maximizing space and property value by incorporating ADUs or second-story living areas above their garage. Whether you’re looking for:
- A guest suite for family and friends
- A rental unit for additional income
- A home office or creative studio
- A gym or wellness retreat
Better Builders specializes in designing energy-efficient ADUs with sustainable materials, smart home features, and soundproofing to create a functional, comfortable living space that enhances your property’s value. If you're in West Seattle or Bellevue, zoning regulations and lot coverage rules apply, and we guide homeowners through the permitting process seamlessly.
If sustainability is important to you—there are several green building features to consider:
- Solar-ready roofing for future or immediate solar panel installation
- High-efficiency insulation and air sealing for year-round comfort
- Reclaimed or sustainably sourced materials for eco-friendly construction
- Rainwater collection systems to repurpose runoff for irrigation
- EV charging station wiring to support your electric vehicle
Better Builders prioritizes energy-efficient and eco-conscious solutions to ensure your garage is functional, sustainable, and built to last.
Would you like help planning the perfect garage to complement your home and lifestyle?