Garage Builders (B06)
Garage construction combines foundation work, framing, roofing, overhead doors, and electrical into a complete structure.
This BidScope guides you through sizing decisions: 12×20 for single-car, 20×20 for two-car, 30×20 for three-car, or custom dimensions for RVs and workshops.
Weigh attached versus detached pros and cons – attached garages offer convenience and climate control but cost more and require fire-rated walls, while detached garages provide flexibility in placement and future use.
Master foundation systems: slab-on-grade with turned-down edge for most garages, or frost walls for frost heave areas.
Learn proper floor slope (1/8 inch per foot minimum toward door) for water drainage.
Plan framing – 2×4 walls adequate for most garages, 2×6 walls for better insulation or long spans.
Choose roof design (gable for simple construction, hip for aesthetics, shed for economy).
Size overhead doors: 8×7 or 9×7 for single cars, 16×7 for doubles, custom for RVs.
Compare door insulation R-values (R-0 to R-18).
Select opener types (chain drive economical, belt drive quiet, screw drive for cold climates).
Plan electrical: 120V circuits every 12 feet, 220V for tools and car charging, adequate lighting.
Navigate Utah setback requirements for detached structures (typically 3-5 feet from property lines).
Obtain HOA approval before starting.
What’s Included:
- Garage sizing standards and recommendations (12×20 single, 20×20 double, 30×20 triple, custom for RV/shop)
- Vehicle clearances and workspace considerations
- Attached vs detached garage comparison (pros, cons, costs)
- Fire-rated wall requirements for attached garages
- Foundation systems for garages (slab-on-grade, frost wall, monolithic)
- Concrete slab specifications (thickness, reinforcement, vapor barrier)
- Floor slope requirements (1/8 inch per foot minimum toward door)
- Turned-down edge footings
- Frost protection requirements
- Framing specifications (2×4 vs 2×6 walls, 16″ vs 24″ spacing)
- Roof design options (gable, hip, shed, flat)
- Truss vs rafter framing
- Roof pitch selection
- Overhead garage door sizes (8×7, 9×7, 16×7 double, custom)
- Garage door insulation R-values (R-0 to R-18) and energy savings
- Garage door materials (steel, aluminum, wood, fiberglass)
- Garage door opener types (chain drive, belt drive, screw drive, direct drive)
- Opener features (WiFi, battery backup, safety sensors)
- Electrical circuit requirements (120V spacing, 220V for tools)
- Lighting design (fixtures every 8-10 feet, LED for efficiency)
- Insulation options (walls, ceiling, doors)
- Climate control (heating options, ventilation)
- Interior finish options (drywall, OSB, unfinished)
- Storage systems and workbenches
- Utah setback requirements for detached structures
- HOA approval requirements
- Permit process
- Costs by size and finish level
